Au pair work in the EU is technically 'cultural exchange', not employment, so many au pairs are not covered by employment law protections. However, the EU has issued non-binding recommendations (the 'Au Pair Directive' concept) setting standards for working conditions, including a maximum 30 hours per week, at least one full day off weekly, and pocket money of approximately €100-150 weekly. Despite these recommendations, many au pair contracts impose excessive hours, low or no pay, and minimal time off. Au pairs are vulnerable because they're often young, in a foreign country, dependent on their host family, and may not know their rights. Before signing an au pair contract, you need to ensure it complies with EU recommendations and includes clear terms for hours, pocket money, accommodation, time off, and grounds for termination.
What is a Working hours and pocket money terms?
An au pair contract sets out the terms of work in a host family (typically childcare and light household tasks), including working hours per week, pocket money, accommodation, meals, time off, duration, and termination. While au pairs are not technically employees, EU standards recommend maximum 30 hours weekly, pocket money of €100-150 per week, and at least one full day off weekly.
Red flags to watch for
EU recommendations cap au pair hours at 30 per week (including babysitting). If the contract requires 40+ hours or states hours are 'as needed', you could be working far more than expected.
EU standards recommend €100-150 per week depending on location. If your contract offers €50 or less, or doesn't specify an amount, you're underpaid relative to standards.
Au pairs should have at least one full day off per week. If the contract offers only 1-2 days monthly, you're overworked.
Host families should provide private, separate accommodation. If you're expected to share with children or the room is inadequate, push back.
Au pair arrangements should have defined duration (typically 6-12 months). If termination is at-will with no notice, you could be left stranded in a foreign country.
All pocket money should be paid to you regularly (weekly or biweekly). If the family withholds it or claims it's held 'for safekeeping', this is a red flag for exploitation.
Au pairs often take second jobs for additional income. If the contract prohibits this, you have no recourse if pocket money is insufficient.
Your legal rights
The EU does not have a single Au Pair Directive, but Recommendation 2003/865/EC sets non-binding standards for working conditions, including maximum 30 hours weekly, €100-150 pocket money, and at least one full day off per week. Individual member states have different laws. Some treat au pairs as employees (requiring employment contracts); others regulate them separately. The European Youth Foundation and various au pair organizations endorse these standards. If an au pair is exploited, she may have recourse under national labor law or anti-trafficking legislation.
Questions to ask before you sign
- 1What are my exact working hours per week, and are babysitting/childcare hours included?
- 2What is my weekly pocket money, and how often will you pay it?
- 3What time off am I guaranteed (days off per week, annual leave)?
- 4What accommodation will you provide, and will I have a private room?
- 5What meals are included, and what am I responsible for cooking or purchasing?
- 6What is the contract duration, and how can either of us terminate the agreement?
- 7Can you restrict me from taking a second job for additional income?
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contract law varies by jurisdiction and individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified legal professional before making decisions based on this information.