How to Become an Au Pair in Netherlands

Am I eligible to be an au pair in Netherlands?

Au pairs in Netherlands are generally aged 18–25. Beyond age, host families look for real childcare experience, reliability and genuine enthusiasm for cultural exchange. Read the key requirements below carefully, because they determine whether you need a visa and which documents to prepare.

What will I actually do as an au pair in Netherlands?

Your days as an au pair in Netherlands revolve around the children: school drop-offs and pick-ups, preparing their meals, playing and helping with homework, and keeping their spaces tidy — typically up to 30 hours per week. An au pair is not a housekeeper, so heavy cleaning and demanding newborn care normally sit outside the role. Make sure your duties, hours and any babysitting are written down before you arrive: it protects both you and the family and sets the placement up to succeed.

How to apply and arrange your visa

Create a free au pair profile, then search and message host families whose location, children and expectations match what you are looking for. When a family invites you, you arrange the Au pair scheme via an IND-recognised sponsor together. Keep copies of your signed agreement and any official documents, and never pay large upfront fees to a family or an unverified agency.

Pocket money, working hours and time off

As an au pair in Netherlands you can usually expect up to €340 per month (pocket money cap), with childcare of up to 30 hours per week. You should also have free time every week and at least one full day off — many au pairs use it for a language course, to travel locally or to meet other au pairs.

Daily life and making the most of your stay

Living with a host family is the fastest way to improve your language and build friendships that last for years. Agree house rules early, speak up if something is unclear, and treat the placement as a true cultural exchange rather than just a job. Staying connected with other au pairs nearby makes settling in much easier.

Tips for a happy stay in Netherlands

Say yes to family life — shared meals, day trips and local traditions are where the real cultural exchange happens, and where your language skills improve fastest. Enrol in a language course early, connect with other au pairs nearby so you have a social circle of your own, and raise anything that is bothering you with your host family calmly and early rather than letting it build up. A little openness and effort on both sides is what turns a year in Netherlands into a genuinely life-changing experience.

Key requirements in Netherlands

• Placement must run through an au pair agency recognised by the IND
• Maximum 30 hours per week and 8 hours per day, on no more than 5 days
• The stay is strictly for cultural exchange — au pairs may not do regular housework
• Au pair has no other family in the Netherlands and has not lived there before
• Pocket money is capped (around €340/month) to keep the placement non-employment