How to Get an Au Pair in Switzerland

Who can host an au pair in Switzerland?

Most families in Switzerland can host an au pair as long as you can offer a private room, full board and a warm, welcoming home. Au pairs are usually aged 18–25 (non-EU, German-speaking cantons) and are often living abroad for the first time, so the best matches happen when your household is ready to support and include them in everyday family life.

What does an au pair do in Switzerland?

Day to day, an au pair in Switzerland helps with everything connected to the children — school runs, preparing their meals, play, homework support, and keeping their rooms and play areas tidy — for up to 30 hours per week. Crucially, an au pair is not a housekeeper or a full-time nanny: heavy cleaning, and sole charge of very young babies, normally fall outside the role. Setting out exactly which tasks you expect, in writing, keeps the arrangement fair and avoids friction later on.

What does hosting an au pair cost in Switzerland?

Budget for CHF 500–800 per month, depending on canton and age in pocket money, on top of accommodation, meals and any insurance or language-course contributions expected locally. In return, your au pair helps with childcare and light related tasks for up to 30 hours per week — far more flexible and affordable than most nursery or full-time nanny arrangements.

Visas, paperwork and the matching process

Begin by creating a free host-family profile, then search and message au pairs whose experience, languages and availability suit your family. Once you have agreed on a placement, you complete the paperwork for the Cantonal au pair placement (agency-arranged for non-EU) together. A clear written agreement covering hours, duties, pocket money and time off keeps expectations aligned from day one.

Working hours, time off and house rules

Au pairs in Switzerland help for up to 30 hours per week, with at least one full day off each week and time to attend a language course or studies. Agreeing a predictable weekly schedule — and being clear about meals, house rules and use of transport — prevents misunderstandings and makes the placement a success for everyone.

Tips for a successful placement in Switzerland

The most successful host families treat their au pair as a member of the family rather than an employee. Include them at mealtimes, introduce them to your neighbourhood and friends, and actively help them settle into local life and their language course. A short, friendly weekly check-in to talk through what is going well and what could be smoother stops small issues from growing. Families in Switzerland who invest in a genuine welcome during the first few weeks are the ones whose au pairs stay happy, motivated and committed for the whole placement.

Key requirements in Switzerland

• Rules are set by each canton; a recognised agency must place non-EU au pairs
• Non-EU au pairs are usually 18–25 and placed in German-speaking cantons
• Maximum 30 hours per week, with a compulsory language course (half-day per week)
• Host family pays pocket money plus the language-course costs and insurance
• EU/EFTA citizens have far more flexibility than non-EU applicants