The paperwork a host family needs to get right

The agreement

This is the document the embassy will read. Keep it plain and specific.

• Start and end dates, and any trial period
• Weekly hours, and which days are free
• Pocket money amount and payment day
• Duties, written as a list, including what is excluded
• Holiday entitlement and notice period on both sides
• Who pays for the language course, transport and insurance

Insurance

Two separate questions. First: is the au pair covered for healthcare — through your national system, or through a private policy you buy? Second: does your home and liability insurance extend to a live-in adult who is not a family member, and to them driving your car?

Call your insurer before arrival, not after the first scratch on the bumper.

Registration

Germany, the Netherlands, Austria and several others require the au pair to register at the local town hall within days of arrival, using your address. Go with them the first time — the forms are rarely in English.

Tax and social contributions

In most European countries au pair pocket money is treated as maintenance rather than wages and is not taxed. A few countries expect the family to register the au pair for social insurance. Confirm your country's rule before the first payment, and keep a simple record of what you paid and when.