Country guide · 310 families hosting
Au pair in Canada.
Longer stays, strong protections. Here is what the exchange typically looks like there — money, hours, paperwork and pace of life.
- Typical pocket money
- C$160–C$240 / week
- Hours
- Up to 44 hours / week by route
- Time off
- Weekends mostly free
- Typical stay
- 12–24 months
- Language
- English or French
The visa, in plain language
Most au pairs in Canada come through International Experience Canada (IEC) working-holiday permits from partner countries, arranged privately with the family. Live-in caregiver routes exist but are a different, job-based programme.
- 01
Check that your country has an IEC working-holiday agreement with Canada
- 02
Enter the IEC pool and receive an invitation to apply
- 03
Sign a detailed written agreement covering hours and duties
- 04
Apply for the work permit and arrange health insurance for arrival
Typical current practice, January 2026 — not legal advice. Always check the country's official immigration guidance before applying.
What makes Canada different
- Two full years possible — the longest typical stays
- Large, well-organised au pair community in the big cities
- Genuine wilderness on the doorstep of every major city
- Strong labour norms make agreements meaningful
Read before you go
Keep exploring