Become Au Pair in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has different requirements according to whether or not the au pair is from the EEA (European Economic Area).
Which country are you from?
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland or the UK
Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Monaco, New Zealand or Taiwan
None of these countries
Good news! As a member of the European Economic Area you can be Au Pair without any restrictions on age, pocket money, or duration of stay.
As a citizen of one of these countries you'll need a visa to become an au pair, and you are eligible to apply for the Tier 5 ("Youth Mobility Scheme") visa.
You can find out more about this visa on the UK Government website.
We're sorry, but since you are not a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) there is no easy way to become an au pair in the UK, however you may still be able to apply for a student visa, depending on your situation.
Requirements for EEA citizens
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You will need a signed letter of invitation from your host family that includes details of your stay, for example accommodation, living conditions, approximate working hours, free time, and pocket money.
Requirements for non-EEA citizens
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You must be aged between 18 and 30.
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You have no children who live with you, or children you’re financially responsible for.
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You must not have already been in the UK under the scheme or in the former ‘working holidaymaker’ category.
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You will need to provide a bank statement showing you have at least £1,890 in personal savings.
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If you're from Hong Kong or the Korea, you will need to get a certificate of sponsorship reference number before applying for your visa.
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You will need a signed letter of invitation from your host family that includes details of your stay, for example accommodation, living conditions, approximate working hours, free time, and pocket money.
More Information For Au Pairs
Lodging
The UK specifies that you should have your own private room in the host family's house, provided free of charge.
Pocket Money
The British government recommends that au pairs receive about £70 to £85 a week. You may have to pay Income Tax and National Insurance, depending on how much pocket money you receive.
Hours
The UK government recommends that as an au pair you help with light housework and childcare for around 30 hours a week, including a couple of evenings babysitting.
Holidays
There are no UK laws governing the amount of holidays given to au pairs, so you should check with your host family and agree upon an amount. A reasonable starting point would be two days per week, and 4-5 weeks of holiday if you are with a family for one year. On top of this, you should reasonably expect to have the day off on public holidays, like Christmas, New Year's Eve and so on.
You should expect to sometimes go on holiday with your host family and help look after the children. You will also be able to travel home to see your family during the year.
Language Classes
You are allowed to attend English language classes at a local college in your spare time. This is usually paid for by you, but you can ask your host family if they will help with the cost.
Language Practice
You are allowed time to study and practise your English with your host family.
Housework
You are expected to help with light housework and childcare for around 30 hours a week, including a couple of evenings babysitting.
Culture
You should be willing and encouraged to learn about British culture from your host family, and to share your own culture with them.
Next Steps
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If you haven't already done so, click here to create a profile and find a host family.
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Sign the au pair contract for United Kingdom with your host family.
Next Steps
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If you haven't already done so, click here to create a profile and find a host family.
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Sign the au pair contract for United Kingdom with your host family.
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Check the UK government's website for the latest information on working in the UK.
