Country guide · 650 families hosting

Au pair in United Kingdom.

Big cities, big weekends. Here is what the exchange typically looks like there — money, hours, paperwork and pace of life.

Typical pocket money

£140–£200 / week

Hours

Hours vary by visa route

Time off

2 days off weekly (typical)

Typical stay

6–24 months by route

Language

English

The visa, in plain language

There is no dedicated au pair visa for the UK. Most au pairs arrive on Youth Mobility Scheme visas (for eligible nationalities) or other work routes, which means the rules — and the pocket money — differ from the continental European standard.

1. 01

   Check whether your nationality is eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme

2. 02

   Agree hours, duties and pocket money explicitly in writing

3. 03

   Apply for the visa and pay the healthcare surcharge

4. 04

   Get a UK SIM and bank account in your first week

Typical current practice, January 2026 — not legal advice. Always check the country's official immigration guidance before applying.