Visas and paperwork · Au pairs and families
Au pair requirements by country: age, language and visa rules
Who can become an au pair where — age limits, language and experience requirements, and maximum stay for popular host countries.
6 min read · Updated September 2026
Common requirements
Most countries share a core set of rules: an age limit, no children of your own, basic language skills, childcare experience, and a signed agreement with a host family. Non-EU applicants typically need a visa before arrival.
Popular host countries at a glance
- Australia: 18–30 (35 for some nationalities), working holiday visa, up to 12 months with one family
- Germany: 18–26, basic German (A1), up to 12 months
- France: 18–30, basic French, up to 12 months (renewable to 24)
- Netherlands: 18–30, registered agency required, up to 12 months
- Spain: 18–30, up to 12 months
- Denmark: 18–29, up to 24 months
- Norway: 18–30, up to 24 months
- USA: 18–26, J-1 visa via a designated agency, 12 months (extendable)
- New Zealand: 18–30 (35 for some), working holiday visa
- UK: usually via the Youth Mobility Scheme, 18–30 (35 for some nationalities)
Check before you commit
Requirements change and vary by nationality. Always confirm on the host country's official immigration website before signing an agreement or booking flights. Our country guides cover pocket money, hours and daily life in more detail.
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