Au Pair Duties and Working Hours
This is one of the strongest procedural topics in the market: au pair duties, maximum hours, and the clear rule that an au pair is not a housekeeper.
Focus
Hours, duties, and days off
Common check
Maximum hours per day or week
Practical rule
Light housework only
What au pairs usually do
Au pair duties normally center on the children: school runs, preparing meals, helping with homework, playing, and keeping the children's spaces tidy. The role should stay close to childcare and light household support.
What au pairs do not do
An au pair is not a housekeeper or a full-time cleaner. Heavy cleaning, major family laundry, and open-ended household chores should not be assumed unless they are clearly and fairly agreed in writing.
How to build a weekly schedule
The weekly schedule should show work hours, school or language course time, babysitting, and the days off. A clear schedule keeps maximum hours visible and helps both sides stay within the local rules.
- Maximum hours per day or week
- Light housework only, not full cleaning
- Days off and predictable rest time
- Babysitting and evening duties, if any
Frequently asked questions
- What are the maximum hours for an au pair?
- The answer depends on the country, but many placements cap the week at 25 to 45 hours and set a daily maximum as well.
- Can light housework be included?
- Yes, usually. Light housework linked to the children or the daily routine is common, but it should stay well short of full household work.
- Should duties be written down?
- Yes. Written duties reduce confusion and make it much easier to prove that the placement stayed within the agreed role.
Need the contract clause that matches the schedule?
Open the contract page