[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":3187},["ShallowReactive",2],{"navigation-en":3,"blog-en":109,"posts-en":124},[4,23,102],{"title":5,"path":6,"stem":7,"children":8,"icon":22},"Getting Started","/docs/getting-started","docs/1.getting-started/1.index",[9,12,17],{"title":10,"path":6,"stem":7,"icon":11},"Introduction","i-lucide-house",{"title":13,"path":14,"stem":15,"icon":16},"Setting Up Your Household","/docs/getting-started/installation","docs/1.getting-started/2.installation","i-lucide-settings",{"title":18,"path":19,"stem":20,"icon":21},"Managing Tasks & Hours","/docs/getting-started/usage","docs/1.getting-started/3.usage","i-lucide-list-checks",false,{"title":24,"icon":25,"path":26,"stem":27,"children":28,"page":22},"Features","i-lucide-sparkles","/docs/features","docs/2.features",[29,33,38,43,48,53,57,62,67,72,77,82,87,92,97],{"title":30,"path":31,"stem":32,"icon":21},"Tasks","/docs/features/tasks","docs/2.features/1.tasks",{"title":34,"path":35,"stem":36,"icon":37},"Export & Documents","/docs/features/export","docs/2.features/10.export","i-lucide-download",{"title":39,"path":40,"stem":41,"icon":42},"Notifications","/docs/features/notifications","docs/2.features/11.notifications","i-lucide-bell",{"title":44,"path":45,"stem":46,"icon":47},"Reference Letters","/docs/features/references","docs/2.features/12.references","i-lucide-file-heart",{"title":49,"path":50,"stem":51,"icon":52},"Feedback","/docs/features/feedback","docs/2.features/13.feedback","i-lucide-message-square-heart",{"title":54,"path":55,"stem":56,"icon":16},"Settings","/docs/features/settings","docs/2.features/14.settings",{"title":58,"path":59,"stem":60,"icon":61},"Calendar Sync","/docs/features/calendar-sync","docs/2.features/15.calendar-sync","i-lucide-calendar-sync",{"title":63,"path":64,"stem":65,"icon":66},"Hour Tracking","/docs/features/hours","docs/2.features/2.hours","i-lucide-timer",{"title":68,"path":69,"stem":70,"icon":71},"Calendar & Scheduling","/docs/features/calendar","docs/2.features/3.calendar","i-lucide-calendar",{"title":73,"path":74,"stem":75,"icon":76},"House Rules","/docs/features/house-rules","docs/2.features/4.house-rules","i-lucide-scroll-text",{"title":78,"path":79,"stem":80,"icon":81},"Leave Management","/docs/features/leave","docs/2.features/5.leave","i-lucide-tree-palm",{"title":83,"path":84,"stem":85,"icon":86},"Children","/docs/features/children","docs/2.features/6.children","i-lucide-baby",{"title":88,"path":89,"stem":90,"icon":91},"Emergency Information","/docs/features/emergency","docs/2.features/7.emergency","i-lucide-shield-alert",{"title":93,"path":94,"stem":95,"icon":96},"Expenses & Receipts","/docs/features/expenses","docs/2.features/8.expenses","i-lucide-wallet",{"title":98,"path":99,"stem":100,"icon":101},"Weekly Check-ins","/docs/features/check-ins","docs/2.features/9.check-ins","i-lucide-message-circle",{"title":103,"path":104,"stem":105,"children":106,"icon":108},"FAQ","/docs/faq","docs/3.faq/1.index",[107],{"title":103,"path":104,"stem":105,"icon":108},"i-lucide-circle-help",{"id":110,"title":111,"body":112,"description":113,"extension":114,"meta":115,"navigation":116,"path":118,"seo":119,"stem":122,"__hash__":123},"blog_en/blog/en/3.blog.yml","Blog",null,"Tips, guides, and updates for host families and au pairs. Practical advice on household coordination, scheduling, and making the most of the au pair experience.","yml",{},{"icon":117},"i-lucide-newspaper","/blog/en/blog",{"title":120,"description":121},"Au Pair Tips & Guides for Host Families | Opairly Blog","Tips, guides, and weekly schedules for au pair host families. Everything about hour limits, house rules, and planning.","blog/en/3.blog","BY3PbffgWXJctuNxTiTrNaslfEiIbS3C4FTImWkw3qU",[125,533,891,1188,1621,1951,2445,2977],{"id":126,"title":127,"authors":128,"badge":134,"body":136,"date":518,"description":519,"extension":520,"image":521,"meta":524,"navigation":525,"path":526,"readingTime":527,"seo":528,"stem":531,"__hash__":532},"posts_en/blog/1.au-pair-hour-regulations-netherlands.md","How Many Hours Can an Au Pair Work in the Netherlands?",[129],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":132},"Opairly Team","https://opairly.nl",{"src":133},"/favicon-96x96.png",{"label":135},"Hours",{"type":137,"value":138,"toc":505},"minimark",[139,143,148,151,177,186,190,193,213,220,224,237,240,260,268,275,279,286,379,387,391,424,432,436,443,447,450,454,472,476],[140,141,142],"p",{},"Hosting an au pair in the Netherlands comes with specific rules around working hours. These guidelines exist to protect au pairs and ensure the arrangement remains a cultural exchange — not full-time employment. Here's what every host family should know.",[144,145,147],"h2",{"id":146},"au-pair-hour-limits-in-the-netherlands-the-rules","Au pair hour limits in the Netherlands: the rules",[140,149,150],{},"Dutch au pair guidelines set clear limits for working hours:",[152,153,154,161,166,171],"ul",{},[155,156,157],"li",{},[158,159,160],"strong",{},"Maximum 30 hours per week",[155,162,163],{},[158,164,165],{},"Maximum 8 hours per day",[155,167,168],{},[158,169,170],{},"Maximum 5 working days per week",[155,172,173,174],{},"At least ",[158,175,176],{},"2 full days off per week",[140,178,179,180,185],{},"These limits are common practice in Dutch au pair placements and help keep the arrangement fair and sustainable for everyone. It is a good idea to document these in your ",[181,182,184],"a",{"href":183},"/en/blog/setting-up-house-rules-au-pair","house rules",", so your au pair knows exactly what is expected.",[144,187,189],{"id":188},"what-counts-as-working-hours","What counts as working hours?",[140,191,192],{},"Any time your au pair spends on household duties or childcare counts toward their hours. This includes:",[152,194,195,198,201,204,207,210],{},[155,196,197],{},"Preparing meals",[155,199,200],{},"Cleaning and tidying",[155,202,203],{},"Doing laundry",[155,205,206],{},"Supervising or playing with children",[155,208,209],{},"School pick-ups and drop-offs",[155,211,212],{},"Grocery shopping for the household",[140,214,215,216,219],{},"Time spent on personal activities, Dutch language courses, or social outings does ",[158,217,218],{},"not"," count — even if children are present in a casual, non-supervisory setting.",[144,221,223],{"id":222},"tracking-hours-why-it-matters","Tracking hours: why it matters",[140,225,226,227,231,232,236],{},"Keeping a clear ",[181,228,230],{"href":229},"/en/docs/features/calendar","log of working hours"," helps you and your au pair stay aligned and avoid misunderstandings. It also makes it easy to ",[181,233,235],{"href":234},"/en/docs/features/export","share documentation with your agency"," if needed.",[140,238,239],{},"Common approaches include:",[152,241,242,248,254],{},[155,243,244,247],{},[158,245,246],{},"Spreadsheets"," — simple but easy to forget",[155,249,250,253],{},[158,251,252],{},"Shared calendar entries"," — visual but hard to aggregate",[155,255,256,259],{},[158,257,258],{},"Dedicated tracking tools"," — purpose-built for accuracy and compliance",[261,262],"prose-callout",{"description":263,"icon":264,"link":265,"linkText":266,"title":267},"Opairly logs hours based on completed tasks.","💡","/signup","Start your free trial","Track hours automatically?",[140,269,270,271],{},"Opairly tracks hours automatically from completed tasks — no manual logging needed. Families get a real-time overview of daily and weekly totals, with color-coded warnings when approaching limits. If you're near the 30-hour weekly cap, you'll know before it's too late. ",[181,272,274],{"href":273},"/en/signup","Start your free trial →",[144,276,278],{"id":277},"structuring-a-typical-week","Structuring a typical week",[140,280,281,282,285],{},"A well-organized ",[181,283,284],{"href":229},"schedule"," helps prevent hour overruns. Here's an example of a balanced 28-hour week:",[287,288,289,303],"table",{},[290,291,292],"thead",{},[293,294,295,299,301],"tr",{},[296,297,298],"th",{},"Day",[296,300,135],{},[296,302,30],{},[304,305,306,318,329,339,349,359,370],"tbody",{},[293,307,308,312,315],{},[309,310,311],"td",{},"Monday",[309,313,314],{},"6h",[309,316,317],{},"School run, afternoon childcare, light cleaning",[293,319,320,323,326],{},[309,321,322],{},"Tuesday",[309,324,325],{},"5h",[309,327,328],{},"Morning childcare, cooking dinner",[293,330,331,334,336],{},[309,332,333],{},"Wednesday",[309,335,325],{},[309,337,338],{},"Laundry, grocery shopping, school pickup",[293,340,341,344,346],{},[309,342,343],{},"Thursday",[309,345,314],{},[309,347,348],{},"Full afternoon childcare, meal prep",[293,350,351,354,356],{},[309,352,353],{},"Friday",[309,355,314],{},[309,357,358],{},"Morning cleaning, school run, evening babysitting",[293,360,361,364,367],{},[309,362,363],{},"Saturday",[309,365,366],{},"—",[309,368,369],{},"Day off",[293,371,372,375,377],{},[309,373,374],{},"Sunday",[309,376,366],{},[309,378,369],{},[140,380,381,382,386],{},"The key is predictability. When your au pair knows what to expect, the relationship works better for everyone. Wondering what an au pair arrangement costs in total? Check our overview of ",[181,383,385],{"href":384},"/en/blog/au-pair-costs-netherlands","au pair costs in the Netherlands",".",[144,388,390],{"id":389},"tips-for-staying-within-the-limits","Tips for staying within the limits",[392,393,394,400,406,412,418],"ol",{},[155,395,396,399],{},[158,397,398],{},"Plan the week in advance"," — assign tasks with estimated durations",[155,401,402,405],{},[158,403,404],{},"Track hours daily"," — don't rely on memory at the end of the week",[155,407,408,411],{},[158,409,410],{},"Build in buffer"," — aim for 25-28 hours to leave room for unexpected tasks",[155,413,414,417],{},[158,415,416],{},"Communicate openly"," — discuss the schedule with your au pair regularly",[155,419,420,423],{},[158,421,422],{},"Use a tool"," — automate tracking so nothing slips through the cracks",[140,425,426,427,431],{},"Don't forget to also arrange proper ",[181,428,430],{"href":429},"/en/blog/au-pair-leave-holiday-rights-netherlands","leave and holiday time"," for your au pair. Days off are just as important as working days.",[144,433,435],{"id":434},"how-many-hours-per-week-is-normal-for-an-au-pair","How many hours per week is normal for an au pair?",[140,437,438,439,386],{},"Most host families in the Netherlands schedule between 25 and 28 hours per week. This leaves a comfortable buffer below the 30-hour maximum and accounts for occasional extra tasks. Staying under 28 hours is a good rule of thumb. Need a starting point? Check our ",[181,440,442],{"href":441},"/en/blog/weekly-schedule-templates-au-pair","free weekly schedule templates for host families",[144,444,446],{"id":445},"bottom-line","Bottom line",[140,448,449],{},"The Dutch au pair hour guidelines are straightforward, but staying within them takes intention. A little planning and the right tools go a long way in keeping your au pair arrangement healthy and enjoyable for everyone involved.",[144,451,453],{"id":452},"sources","Sources",[152,455,456,465],{},[155,457,458],{},[181,459,464],{"href":460,"rel":461,"target":463},"https://ind.nl/en/about-us/background-articles/au-pairs",[462],"nofollow","_blank","IND — Background article: au pairs",[155,466,467],{},[181,468,471],{"href":469,"rel":470,"target":463},"https://ind.nl/nl/formulieren/7150.pdf",[462],"IND — Au pair awareness declaration (PDF)",[144,473,475],{"id":474},"related-articles","Related articles",[152,477,478,483,489,494,499],{},[155,479,480],{},[181,481,482],{"href":441},"Free weekly schedule templates for host families",[155,484,485],{},[181,486,488],{"href":487},"/en/blog/first-week-au-pair-checklist","First week with your au pair: a practical checklist",[155,490,491],{},[181,492,493],{"href":429},"Au pair leave and holiday rights in the Netherlands",[155,495,496],{},[181,497,498],{"href":384},"How much does an au pair cost in the Netherlands?",[155,500,501],{},[181,502,504],{"href":503},"/en/blog/au-pair-rules-netherlands","Au pair rules in the Netherlands: a complete overview",{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":508},"",2,[509,510,511,512,513,514,515,516,517],{"id":146,"depth":507,"text":147},{"id":188,"depth":507,"text":189},{"id":222,"depth":507,"text":223},{"id":277,"depth":507,"text":278},{"id":389,"depth":507,"text":390},{"id":434,"depth":507,"text":435},{"id":445,"depth":507,"text":446},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"2026-04-01T00:00:00.000Z","Au pair working hours in the Netherlands: 30 hours per week, 8 hours per day. A practical guide to hour limits, tracking, and scheduling for host families.","md",{"src":522,"alt":523},"/images/blog/au-pair-uurregelgeving-nederland.webp","Au pair working hours in the Netherlands",{},true,"/blog/au-pair-hour-regulations-netherlands",5,{"title":529,"description":530},"Au Pair Working Hours in the Netherlands 2026: Rules | Opairly","How many hours can an au pair work in the Netherlands? Max 30h/week, 8h/day. Practical guide to hour limits, tracking, and weekly scheduling.","blog/1.au-pair-hour-regulations-netherlands","wRqPkLPuX2HTTqutIUNpP47WEqrQtj7sCXLmHXtmc0w",{"id":534,"title":535,"authors":536,"badge":539,"body":540,"date":518,"description":879,"extension":520,"image":880,"meta":883,"navigation":525,"path":884,"readingTime":885,"seo":886,"stem":889,"__hash__":890},"posts_en/blog/2.setting-up-house-rules-au-pair.md","Au Pair House Rules: Template, Examples, and Tips for Host Families",[537],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":538},{"src":133},{"label":73},{"type":137,"value":541,"toc":861},[542,545,548,552,555,558,588,592,595,689,695,706,710,715,718,722,725,729,741,745,748,752,755,759,762,766,769,777,781,784,796,799,808,812,815,827,829,836,838],[140,543,544],{},"Your au pair is about to become part of your household. They'll share your kitchen, your routines, and your daily life. That's a lot of adjustment for everyone — and clear house rules make it so much easier.",[140,546,547],{},"Good house rules aren't about control. They're about clarity. When expectations are written down and agreed upon, there's less room for misunderstanding and more space for a positive relationship.",[144,549,551],{"id":550},"why-house-rules-matter","Why house rules matter",[140,553,554],{},"Most au pair conflicts come down to unspoken expectations. Maybe you assumed the kitchen would be cleaned after every meal. Maybe your au pair didn't realize guests needed to be discussed in advance. These aren't character flaws — they're gaps in communication.",[140,556,557],{},"Written house rules solve this by making the implicit explicit. They also:",[152,559,560,566,572,582],{},[155,561,562,565],{},[158,563,564],{},"Protect both parties"," — if something goes wrong, you can refer back to what was agreed",[155,567,568,571],{},[158,569,570],{},"Help au pairs adjust"," — especially when moving to a new country with different norms",[155,573,574,577,578,581],{},[158,575,576],{},"Align with official regulations"," — besides house rules, there are also ",[181,579,580],{"href":503},"national au pair rules in the Netherlands",". It helps to have both covered",[155,583,584,587],{},[158,585,586],{},"Satisfy agency requirements"," — many placement agencies expect documented household agreements",[144,589,591],{"id":590},"what-categories-to-cover","What categories to cover",[140,593,594],{},"A thorough set of house rules typically covers eight areas. You don't need a novel for each — a few clear points per category is plenty.",[287,596,597,607],{},[290,598,599],{},[293,600,601,604],{},[296,602,603],{},"Category",[296,605,606],{},"Examples",[304,608,609,619,629,639,649,659,669,679],{},[293,610,611,616],{},[309,612,613],{},[158,614,615],{},"Kitchen",[309,617,618],{},"Cleaning up after meals, shared vs. personal food, appliance usage",[293,620,621,626],{},[309,622,623],{},[158,624,625],{},"Guests",[309,627,628],{},"Whether overnight guests are allowed, quiet hours, advance notice",[293,630,631,636],{},[309,632,633],{},[158,634,635],{},"Curfew",[309,637,638],{},"Weekday and weekend return times, key/lock arrangements",[293,640,641,646],{},[309,642,643],{},[158,644,645],{},"Cleaning",[309,647,648],{},"Shared responsibilities, frequency, which areas are the au pair's",[293,650,651,656],{},[309,652,653],{},[158,654,655],{},"Laundry",[309,657,658],{},"Laundry days, machine usage, ironing expectations",[293,660,661,666],{},[309,662,663],{},[158,664,665],{},"Technology",[309,667,668],{},"Wi-Fi usage, screen time during childcare, shared devices",[293,670,671,676],{},[309,672,673],{},[158,674,675],{},"Safety",[309,677,678],{},"Emergency contacts, first aid, car usage rules, child safety specifics",[293,680,681,686],{},[309,682,683],{},[158,684,685],{},"Other",[309,687,688],{},"Smoking policy, pet care, cultural or dietary preferences",[261,690],{"description":691,"icon":692,"link":265,"linkText":693,"title":694},"Create house rules, share with your au pair, and export as PDF.","📋","Try Opairly for free","Manage house rules digitally?",[696,697,698],"blockquote",{},[140,699,700,703,704],{},[158,701,702],{},"Opairly tip:"," You can manage all these categories digitally. Set up house rules in Opairly and share them instantly with your au pair — no more printing or emailing. ",[181,705,274],{"href":273},[144,707,709],{"id":708},"tips-for-writing-fair-and-effective-rules","Tips for writing fair and effective rules",[711,712,714],"h3",{"id":713},"_1-be-specific-not-vague","1. Be specific, not vague",[140,716,717],{},"\"Keep the kitchen clean\" means different things to different people. \"Wipe down counters and load the dishwasher after each meal\" leaves no room for confusion.",[711,719,721],{"id":720},"_2-explain-the-why","2. Explain the why",[140,723,724],{},"Rules land better when there's a reason behind them. \"Please don't use the front door after 22:00 — the baby's room is right above it\" is much easier to respect than a bare instruction.",[711,726,728],{"id":727},"_3-make-it-a-conversation","3. Make it a conversation",[140,730,731,732,735,736,740],{},"Don't hand your au pair a finished document. Go through the rules together during the ",[181,733,734],{"href":487},"first week"," — see our ",[181,737,739],{"href":738},"/en/docs/getting-started/usage","getting started guide"," for tips. Ask if anything is unclear or feels unfair. This builds trust and gives them a chance to share their own needs too.",[711,742,744],{"id":743},"_4-keep-it-reasonable","4. Keep it reasonable",[140,746,747],{},"Your au pair is a young adult, not an employee on a strict contract. Rules like \"no phone during any waking hours\" or \"no visitors ever\" will damage the relationship. Aim for boundaries that you'd find reasonable yourself.",[711,749,751],{"id":750},"_5-include-the-positives","5. Include the positives",[140,753,754],{},"House rules don't have to be a list of restrictions. Include things like \"Feel free to use the garden anytime\" or \"The living room TV is available after 20:00.\" It sets a welcoming tone.",[711,756,758],{"id":757},"_6-review-and-update","6. Review and update",[140,760,761],{},"Situations change. Maybe a rule about curfew needs adjusting after the first month, or a cleaning arrangement isn't working. Schedule a casual check-in after a few weeks to see what needs tweaking.",[144,763,765],{"id":764},"documenting-your-rules","Documenting your rules",[140,767,768],{},"Verbal agreements are forgotten quickly. Write your house rules down and make sure both parties have a copy. This is also important for your placement agency — many require a signed household agreement as part of the au pair arrangement.",[140,770,771,772,776],{},"With Opairly, you can ",[181,773,775],{"href":774},"/en/docs/features/house-rules","manage your house rules"," directly in the app. Create rules by category, update them when needed, and export a clean PDF or Excel document whenever your agency requests one. Both the host family and au pair have access, so everyone stays on the same page.",[144,778,780],{"id":779},"get-a-ready-made-house-rules-template","Get a ready-made house rules template",[140,782,783],{},"Don't want to start from scratch? Download our free template and start documenting your agreements today.",[696,785,786],{},[140,787,788,791,792],{},[158,789,790],{},"Free download:"," ",[181,793,795],{"href":794,"target":463},"/templates/huisregels-sjabloon.pdf","Download our house rules template (PDF) →",[140,797,798],{},"The template covers all 8 categories with space to fill in your own rules, plus a signature section for the au pair and host parents.",[140,800,801,802,805,806],{},"Want to manage it digitally? Opairly comes with ",[181,803,804],{"href":774},"20 pre-written house rule templates"," covering all 8 categories. You can customize them for your household and export a professional PDF or Excel document — ready to share with your au pair and agency. ",[181,807,274],{"href":273},[144,809,811],{"id":810},"a-good-start-sets-the-tone","A good start sets the tone",[140,813,814],{},"The first few weeks of an au pair placement are crucial. Clear house rules show your au pair that you've thought things through and that you care about making the arrangement work. It's not about being strict — it's about being fair, transparent, and organized.",[140,816,817,818,821,822,826],{},"Take an hour to write your rules before your au pair arrives. You'll thank yourself later. Then pair your house rules with a clear ",[181,819,820],{"href":441},"weekly schedule"," and make sure ",[181,823,825],{"href":824},"/en/blog/au-pair-hour-regulations-netherlands","working hours"," are properly tracked.",[144,828,453],{"id":452},[152,830,831],{},[155,832,833],{},[181,834,464],{"href":460,"target":463,"rel":835},[462],[144,837,475],{"id":474},[152,839,840,844,849,853,857],{},[155,841,842],{},[181,843,488],{"href":487},[155,845,846],{},[181,847,848],{"href":824},"How many hours can an au pair work in the Netherlands?",[155,850,851],{},[181,852,493],{"href":429},[155,854,855],{},[181,856,498],{"href":384},[155,858,859],{},[181,860,504],{"href":503},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":862},[863,864,865,874,875,876,877,878],{"id":550,"depth":507,"text":551},{"id":590,"depth":507,"text":591},{"id":708,"depth":507,"text":709,"children":866},[867,869,870,871,872,873],{"id":713,"depth":868,"text":714},3,{"id":720,"depth":868,"text":721},{"id":727,"depth":868,"text":728},{"id":743,"depth":868,"text":744},{"id":750,"depth":868,"text":751},{"id":757,"depth":868,"text":758},{"id":764,"depth":507,"text":765},{"id":779,"depth":507,"text":780},{"id":810,"depth":507,"text":811},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"How to create clear house rules for your au pair in the Netherlands. Includes a template with 8 categories, practical examples, and tips for a fair agreement.",{"src":881,"alt":882},"/images/blog/huisregels-opstellen-au-pair.webp","House rules for au pairs",{},"/blog/setting-up-house-rules-au-pair",6,{"title":887,"description":888},"Au Pair House Rules: 20+ Examples + Free Template | Opairly","Au pair house rules for host families in the Netherlands. 8 categories, 20+ concrete examples and a free template you can use right away.","blog/2.setting-up-house-rules-au-pair","zenBai9Iq60akYzVAAh9V9TAbeT7O-HOMous2SwAj8s",{"id":892,"title":893,"authors":894,"badge":897,"body":898,"date":518,"description":1177,"extension":520,"image":1178,"meta":1181,"navigation":525,"path":1182,"readingTime":885,"seo":1183,"stem":1186,"__hash__":1187},"posts_en/blog/3.first-week-au-pair-checklist.md","First Week with Your Au Pair: A Practical Checklist",[895],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":896},{"src":133},{"label":5},{"type":137,"value":899,"toc":1167},[900,903,907,910,942,946,949,975,980,984,987,1029,1033,1036,1062,1066,1069,1094,1098,1101,1121,1126,1128,1142,1144],[140,901,902],{},"The first week with a new au pair sets the tone for everything that follows. A little preparation goes a long way — both for your family and for someone who just moved to a new country. This checklist helps you cover all the essentials so everyone feels confident and comfortable from day one.",[144,904,906],{"id":905},"before-arrival","Before arrival",[140,908,909],{},"Start preparing before your au pair lands in the Netherlands. These small steps show that you care and help them feel welcome right away.",[392,911,912,918,924,930,936],{},[155,913,914,917],{},[158,915,916],{},"Prepare their room"," — a clean, private space with fresh bedding, a desk or table, and enough storage. A small welcome touch like flowers or a Dutch treat makes a real difference.",[155,919,920,923],{},[158,921,922],{},"Set up essentials"," — a Dutch SIM card or phone plan, an OV-chipkaart for public transport, and a house key.",[155,925,926,929],{},[158,927,928],{},"Print key information"," — your address, Wi-Fi password, emergency contacts, and the nearest GP (huisarts). Put it all on one sheet they can keep in their room.",[155,931,932,935],{},[158,933,934],{},"Register at the municipality"," — schedule a BRP registration appointment in advance if possible. Your au pair needs this within 5 days of arrival.",[155,937,938,941],{},[158,939,940],{},"Notify your agency"," — let them know the arrival date and confirm that everything is in order.",[144,943,945],{"id":944},"day-one-the-welcome","Day one: the welcome",[140,947,948],{},"The first day should feel relaxed, not overwhelming. Your au pair just traveled a long way and is adjusting to a completely new environment.",[392,950,951,957,963,969],{},[155,952,953,956],{},[158,954,955],{},"Give a full house tour"," — show every room, explain how appliances work (Dutch washing machines have their quirks), and point out where things are stored.",[155,958,959,962],{},[158,960,961],{},"Walk through the neighbourhood"," — the nearest supermarket, bakery, pharmacy, playground, and public transport stops. If your children go to school or daycare, walk the route together.",[155,964,965,968],{},[158,966,967],{},"Share a meal together"," — sit down as a family. This is a relationship, not just an arrangement.",[155,970,971,974],{},[158,972,973],{},"Keep the evening free"," — let them unpack, call home, and settle in at their own pace.",[261,976],{"description":977,"icon":978,"link":265,"linkText":266,"title":979},"Opairly helps host families with scheduling, hours, and communication.","✅","Keep everything organized?",[144,981,983],{"id":982},"days-two-and-three-house-rules-and-schedule","Days two and three: house rules and schedule",[140,985,986],{},"Once your au pair has had a chance to land, it's time to get practical. Be clear but kind — this is new for them too.",[392,988,989,998,1010,1020],{},[155,990,991,997],{},[158,992,993,994,996],{},"Go through the ",[181,995,184],{"href":774}," together"," — cover daily routines, meal preferences, screen time policies, bedtimes, and anything specific to your household. Write them down so there's no guessing later.",[155,999,1000,1005,1006,1009],{},[158,1001,1002,1003],{},"Walk through the ",[181,1004,820],{"href":738}," — explain which tasks happen on which days, how hours are structured, and when their free time is. Be specific about start and end times. Check our ",[181,1007,1008],{"href":441},"weekly schedule templates"," for ready-made examples.",[155,1011,1012,1015,1016,1019],{},[158,1013,1014],{},"Explain the hour limits"," — ",[181,1017,1018],{"href":824},"30 hours per week, 8 hours per day"," maximum. Make sure they understand what counts as working time and that these limits are taken seriously.",[155,1021,1022,1015,1025,1028],{},[158,1023,1024],{},"Set up Opairly together",[181,1026,1027],{"href":273},"start your free 30-day trial"," and walk through the dashboard on day one. Add your au pair to your household, show them how to view their tasks and log hours. Starting this early builds a good habit.",[144,1030,1032],{"id":1031},"days-four-and-five-the-first-solo-moments","Days four and five: the first solo moments",[140,1034,1035],{},"By mid-week, your au pair should start doing some tasks independently. Stay close by at first, then gradually step back.",[392,1037,1038,1044,1050,1056],{},[155,1039,1040,1043],{},[158,1041,1042],{},"Do a supervised trial run"," — let them handle the morning routine or school pickup while you're still at home. Answer questions in real time.",[155,1045,1046,1049],{},[158,1047,1048],{},"Introduce them to the children's routines"," — nap schedules, snack habits, homework time, favourite activities. The more detail, the better.",[155,1051,1052,1055],{},[158,1053,1054],{},"Share emergency procedures"," — what to do if a child gets hurt, who to call, where the first aid kit is, and how 112 works in the Netherlands.",[155,1057,1058,1061],{},[158,1059,1060],{},"Check in at the end of each day"," — a quick 10-minute conversation about what went well and what felt unclear. Don't wait for problems to build up.",[144,1063,1065],{"id":1064},"days-six-and-seven-free-time-and-independence","Days six and seven: free time and independence",[140,1067,1068],{},"Your au pair needs time to explore and build their own life in the Netherlands. This is not optional — it's part of what makes the arrangement work.",[392,1070,1071,1077,1088],{},[155,1072,1073,1076],{},[158,1074,1075],{},"Encourage them to explore"," — suggest a nearby city to visit, a park to walk through, or a local event. If they don't know anyone yet, help them find au pair meetup groups or language classes.",[155,1078,1079,1082,1083,1087],{},[158,1080,1081],{},"Respect their days off"," — free days mean free days. No \"quick favours\" or last-minute asks. Use a ",[181,1084,1086],{"href":1085},"/en/docs/features/leave","leave management system"," to keep track.",[155,1089,1090,1093],{},[158,1091,1092],{},"Reflect on the week together"," — sit down briefly and talk about how the first week went. What worked? What needs adjusting? This conversation prevents small issues from growing into big ones.",[144,1095,1097],{"id":1096},"setting-up-for-the-weeks-ahead","Setting up for the weeks ahead",[140,1099,1100],{},"The first week is just the beginning. A few habits established early will save you from confusion later:",[152,1102,1103,1109,1115],{},[155,1104,1105,1108],{},[158,1106,1107],{},"Log hours from day one"," — consistent tracking keeps everyone aligned and makes hour tracking effortless.",[155,1110,1111,1114],{},[158,1112,1113],{},"Review the schedule weekly"," — things will change. A short Sunday evening check-in keeps the week ahead predictable.",[155,1116,1117,1120],{},[158,1118,1119],{},"Keep communication open"," — your au pair might be too polite to bring up concerns. Create space for honest conversations.",[140,1122,1123,1124,386],{},"The families who invest in a strong first week almost always have a better au pair experience overall. It's worth the effort — and Opairly is here to help you stay organized every step of the way. Curious about the total costs of having an au pair? Read our article on ",[181,1125,385],{"href":384},[144,1127,453],{"id":452},[152,1129,1130,1135],{},[155,1131,1132],{},[181,1133,464],{"href":460,"rel":1134,"target":463},[462],[155,1136,1137],{},[181,1138,1141],{"href":1139,"rel":1140,"target":463},"https://www.government.nl/topics/au-pairs",[462],"Government of the Netherlands — Au pair regulations",[144,1143,475],{"id":474},[152,1145,1146,1151,1155,1159,1163],{},[155,1147,1148],{},[181,1149,1150],{"href":183},"Au pair house rules: template, examples, and tips",[155,1152,1153],{},[181,1154,848],{"href":824},[155,1156,1157],{},[181,1158,482],{"href":441},[155,1160,1161],{},[181,1162,498],{"href":384},[155,1164,1165],{},[181,1166,504],{"href":503},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":1168},[1169,1170,1171,1172,1173,1174,1175,1176],{"id":905,"depth":507,"text":906},{"id":944,"depth":507,"text":945},{"id":982,"depth":507,"text":983},{"id":1031,"depth":507,"text":1032},{"id":1064,"depth":507,"text":1065},{"id":1096,"depth":507,"text":1097},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"Everything you need to cover in the first week when your new au pair arrives. A step-by-step checklist for a smooth start.",{"src":1179,"alt":1180},"/images/blog/eerste-week-au-pair-checklist.webp","First week au pair checklist",{},"/blog/first-week-au-pair-checklist",{"title":1184,"description":1185},"First Week Au Pair Checklist | Opairly","Complete checklist for the first week with your new au pair. Step-by-step guide from welcome day to the first solo workday.","blog/3.first-week-au-pair-checklist","aja8nQnthfGH7VVrZ5jlHgUT45zScOQ1qDZHHKskqxE",{"id":1189,"title":1190,"authors":1191,"badge":1194,"body":1196,"date":518,"description":1609,"extension":520,"image":1610,"meta":1613,"navigation":525,"path":1614,"readingTime":1615,"seo":1616,"stem":1619,"__hash__":1620},"posts_en/blog/4.weekly-schedule-templates-au-pair.md","Free Au Pair Weekly Schedule Templates for Host Families",[1192],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":1193},{"src":133},{"label":1195},"Scheduling",{"type":137,"value":1197,"toc":1597},[1198,1205,1208,1212,1215,1218,1222,1225,1326,1332,1337,1340,1344,1347,1440,1445,1448,1452,1455,1458,1475,1484,1488,1520,1524,1535,1539,1549,1553,1559,1561,1573,1575],[140,1199,1200,1201,1204],{},"Creating a weekly schedule is one of the most important things you can do as an au pair host family. It sets expectations, prevents misunderstandings, and helps you stay within the ",[181,1202,1203],{"href":824},"Dutch 30-hour weekly limit",". But where do you start?",[140,1206,1207],{},"We've put together practical schedule templates for different family situations. Use them as a starting point and adjust to your own routine.",[144,1209,1211],{"id":1210},"why-a-fixed-schedule-matters","Why a fixed schedule matters",[140,1213,1214],{},"Without a clear schedule, hours tend to creep up. A quick \"can you also do the laundry?\" here, an extra school pickup there — and suddenly you're at 35 hours. A written schedule prevents this by making the workload visible and concrete.",[140,1216,1217],{},"A good schedule also helps your au pair settle in. They know when they're working and when they're free, which makes it easier to plan language courses, meet other au pairs, or simply relax.",[144,1219,1221],{"id":1220},"template-1-family-with-school-age-children-ages-6-12","Template 1: Family with school-age children (ages 6-12)",[140,1223,1224],{},"This schedule works well when children are at school during the day. Tasks cluster around school runs and after-school hours.",[287,1226,1227,1240],{},[290,1228,1229],{},[293,1230,1231,1233,1236,1238],{},[296,1232,298],{},[296,1234,1235],{},"Time",[296,1237,135],{},[296,1239,30],{},[304,1241,1242,1255,1268,1280,1291,1304,1316],{},[293,1243,1244,1246,1249,1252],{},[309,1245,311],{},[309,1247,1248],{},"8:00–9:00, 15:00–18:00",[309,1250,1251],{},"4h",[309,1253,1254],{},"School drop-off, pickup, homework help, snack prep",[293,1256,1257,1259,1262,1265],{},[309,1258,322],{},[309,1260,1261],{},"8:00–9:00, 15:00–18:30",[309,1263,1264],{},"4.5h",[309,1266,1267],{},"School drop-off, pickup, after-school activity transport, light cleaning",[293,1269,1270,1272,1275,1277],{},[309,1271,333],{},[309,1273,1274],{},"8:00–13:00",[309,1276,325],{},[309,1278,1279],{},"School drop-off, morning cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping, pickup",[293,1281,1282,1284,1286,1288],{},[309,1283,343],{},[309,1285,1248],{},[309,1287,1251],{},[309,1289,1290],{},"School drop-off, pickup, outdoor play supervision, meal prep",[293,1292,1293,1295,1298,1301],{},[309,1294,353],{},[309,1296,1297],{},"8:00–9:00, 14:00–18:30",[309,1299,1300],{},"5.5h",[309,1302,1303],{},"School drop-off, early pickup, kids' activity, cooking dinner",[293,1305,1306,1308,1311,1313],{},[309,1307,363],{},[309,1309,1310],{},"10:00–15:00",[309,1312,325],{},[309,1314,1315],{},"Morning childcare while parents are out, light tidying",[293,1317,1318,1320,1322,1324],{},[309,1319,374],{},[309,1321,366],{},[309,1323,366],{},[309,1325,369],{},[140,1327,1328,1331],{},[158,1329,1330],{},"Weekly total: 28 hours"," — leaves a 2-hour buffer for unexpected tasks.",[261,1333],{"description":1334,"icon":1335,"link":265,"linkText":266,"title":1336},"Import this schedule into Opairly and customize it for your family.","📅","Use this schedule right away?",[140,1338,1339],{},"This split-shift pattern gives the au pair free time during school hours for language classes or personal activities. Wednesday is intentionally a longer block, since many Dutch schools end early on Wednesdays.",[144,1341,1343],{"id":1342},"template-2-family-with-a-toddler-ages-1-3","Template 2: Family with a toddler (ages 1-3)",[140,1345,1346],{},"Families with young children need longer continuous blocks of childcare. This schedule focuses on mornings and early afternoons.",[287,1348,1349,1361],{},[290,1350,1351],{},[293,1352,1353,1355,1357,1359],{},[296,1354,298],{},[296,1356,1235],{},[296,1358,135],{},[296,1360,30],{},[304,1362,1363,1375,1386,1398,1409,1420,1430],{},[293,1364,1365,1367,1370,1372],{},[309,1366,311],{},[309,1368,1369],{},"8:30–14:30",[309,1371,314],{},[309,1373,1374],{},"Morning routine, free play, snack, outdoor walk, lunch, nap time",[293,1376,1377,1379,1381,1383],{},[309,1378,322],{},[309,1380,1369],{},[309,1382,314],{},[309,1384,1385],{},"Morning routine, playgroup, lunch prep, nap time",[293,1387,1388,1390,1393,1395],{},[309,1389,333],{},[309,1391,1392],{},"9:00–14:00",[309,1394,325],{},[309,1396,1397],{},"Creative play, park visit, lunch, nap time",[293,1399,1400,1402,1404,1406],{},[309,1401,343],{},[309,1403,1369],{},[309,1405,314],{},[309,1407,1408],{},"Morning routine, errands with toddler, lunch, nap time",[293,1410,1411,1413,1415,1417],{},[309,1412,353],{},[309,1414,1392],{},[309,1416,325],{},[309,1418,1419],{},"Indoor play, tidying children's rooms, lunch, nap time",[293,1421,1422,1424,1426,1428],{},[309,1423,363],{},[309,1425,366],{},[309,1427,366],{},[309,1429,369],{},[293,1431,1432,1434,1436,1438],{},[309,1433,374],{},[309,1435,366],{},[309,1437,366],{},[309,1439,369],{},[140,1441,1442,1444],{},[158,1443,1330],{}," — with two full days off on the weekend.",[140,1446,1447],{},"Notice that the au pair's day ends after the toddler goes down for a nap. This gives clear boundaries and avoids the trap of \"well, they're sleeping anyway, can you also do X?\"",[144,1449,1451],{"id":1450},"balancing-childcare-and-household-tasks","Balancing childcare and household tasks",[140,1453,1454],{},"Dutch au pair regulations allow both childcare and light household tasks. A common split is roughly 60% childcare and 40% household duties. Keep household tasks realistic — an au pair is not a professional cleaner.",[140,1456,1457],{},"Reasonable household tasks include:",[152,1459,1460,1463,1466,1469,1472],{},[155,1461,1462],{},"Children's laundry and tidying their rooms",[155,1464,1465],{},"Light cleaning of common areas",[155,1467,1468],{},"Cooking simple meals",[155,1470,1471],{},"Grocery shopping from a list",[155,1473,1474],{},"Loading and unloading the dishwasher",[140,1476,1477,1478,1480,1481,1483],{},"Tasks that should ",[158,1479,218],{}," be assigned: deep cleaning, garden maintenance, ironing for the entire family, or anything requiring professional skills. Document these boundaries clearly in your ",[181,1482,184],{"href":183},", so everyone knows what is and isn't expected.",[144,1485,1487],{"id":1486},"tips-for-making-your-schedule-work","Tips for making your schedule work",[392,1489,1490,1496,1502,1508,1514],{},[155,1491,1492,1495],{},[158,1493,1494],{},"Share it in writing"," — a shared document or app is better than a verbal agreement. Both sides can refer back to it.",[155,1497,1498,1501],{},[158,1499,1500],{},"Review it monthly"," — schedules that worked in September may not work in January. Seasons, school holidays, and your au pair's own activities change.",[155,1503,1504,1507],{},[158,1505,1506],{},"Track actual hours"," — compare planned vs. actual hours weekly. If they consistently differ, update the schedule.",[155,1509,1510,1513],{},[158,1511,1512],{},"Mark flex time"," — designate 1-2 hours per week as \"flexible\" for things that come up unexpectedly. This way it's already accounted for.",[155,1515,1516,1519],{},[158,1517,1518],{},"Include it in your documentation"," — a weekly schedule helps keep the week predictable and organized. Having one ready also saves time when your agency asks for it.",[144,1521,1523],{"id":1522},"export-and-share-your-schedule","Export and share your schedule",[140,1525,1526,1527,1530,1531,1534],{},"With Opairly, you can build your weekly schedule directly in the ",[181,1528,1529],{"href":229},"calendar"," and ",[181,1532,1533],{"href":234},"export it as a PDF or Excel file"," — formatted and ready for agency submissions or your own records. The export includes a signature section for both the au pair and host parents, which is often required for official documentation.",[144,1536,1538],{"id":1537},"download-your-schedule-as-pdf-or-excel","Download your schedule as PDF or Excel",[140,1540,1541,1542,1545,1546],{},"Want a polished version of your schedule? With Opairly, you build your weekly schedule in the app and ",[181,1543,1544],{"href":234},"export it as a professionally formatted PDF or Excel file"," — complete with a signature section for both the au pair and host parents. ",[181,1547,1548],{"href":273},"Try it free →",[144,1550,1552],{"id":1551},"final-thoughts","Final thoughts",[140,1554,1555,1556,386],{},"A good schedule is not about control — it's about clarity. When everyone knows what to expect, the au pair experience is better for the whole family. Start with one of these templates, adjust it to your life, and revisit it regularly. Want to know what an au pair costs in total? See our breakdown of ",[181,1557,1558],{"href":384},"all au pair costs",[144,1560,453],{"id":452},[152,1562,1563,1568],{},[155,1564,1565],{},[181,1566,464],{"href":460,"rel":1567,"target":463},[462],[155,1569,1570],{},[181,1571,471],{"href":469,"rel":1572,"target":463},[462],[144,1574,475],{"id":474},[152,1576,1577,1581,1585,1589,1593],{},[155,1578,1579],{},[181,1580,848],{"href":824},[155,1582,1583],{},[181,1584,493],{"href":429},[155,1586,1587],{},[181,1588,488],{"href":487},[155,1590,1591],{},[181,1592,498],{"href":384},[155,1594,1595],{},[181,1596,504],{"href":503},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":1598},[1599,1600,1601,1602,1603,1604,1605,1606,1607,1608],{"id":1210,"depth":507,"text":1211},{"id":1220,"depth":507,"text":1221},{"id":1342,"depth":507,"text":1343},{"id":1450,"depth":507,"text":1451},{"id":1486,"depth":507,"text":1487},{"id":1522,"depth":507,"text":1523},{"id":1537,"depth":507,"text":1538},{"id":1551,"depth":507,"text":1552},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"Free weekly schedule templates for au pair host families in the Netherlands. Includes sample schedules for school-age children and toddlers, with tips for staying within the 30-hour limit.",{"src":1611,"alt":1612},"/images/blog/weekschema-sjablonen-au-pair.webp","Weekly schedule templates for au pairs",{},"/blog/weekly-schedule-templates-au-pair",7,{"title":1617,"description":1618},"Au Pair Weekly Schedule: Free Templates + Examples | Opairly","Free au pair weekly schedule templates for host families in the Netherlands. Sample schedules for school-age kids and toddlers, within the 30-hour limit.","blog/4.weekly-schedule-templates-au-pair","Qv-NNElYjX1be0iUbpbimhP5U4-JASwLfh4kHvcyqIw",{"id":1622,"title":1623,"authors":1624,"badge":1627,"body":1629,"date":518,"description":1940,"extension":520,"image":1941,"meta":1944,"navigation":525,"path":1945,"readingTime":527,"seo":1946,"stem":1949,"__hash__":1950},"posts_en/blog/5.au-pair-leave-holiday-rights-netherlands.md","Au Pair Leave and Holiday Rights in the Netherlands: A Complete Guide",[1625],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":1626},{"src":133},{"label":1628},"Tips",{"type":137,"value":1630,"toc":1925},[1631,1634,1638,1645,1656,1659,1664,1668,1675,1679,1682,1711,1715,1718,1722,1725,1728,1742,1745,1749,1756,1759,1767,1770,1781,1785,1791,1794,1798,1801,1833,1837,1840,1873,1878,1880,1890,1892,1901,1903],[140,1632,1633],{},"Au pairs in the Netherlands are entitled to time off — and getting leave arrangements right is essential for a healthy, long-lasting placement. Yet holiday rights are one of the most common sources of misunderstanding between host families and au pairs. Here is everything you need to know.",[144,1635,1637],{"id":1636},"the-standard-14-days-of-paid-leave-per-year","The standard: 14 days of paid leave per year",[140,1639,1640,1641,1644],{},"Most au pair agencies in the Netherlands recommend a minimum of ",[158,1642,1643],{},"2 weeks (14 days) of paid leave per year"," for a standard 12-month placement. While au pair arrangements are cultural exchanges (not employment contracts), this is standard practice across the industry. During this time:",[152,1646,1647,1650,1653],{},[155,1648,1649],{},"The au pair receives their normal pocket money",[155,1651,1652],{},"No household duties or childcare are expected",[155,1654,1655],{},"The au pair is free to travel or stay home",[140,1657,1658],{},"If the placement is shorter than 12 months, the entitlement is calculated proportionally. For example, a 6-month stay would come with at least 7 days of leave.",[261,1660],{"description":1661,"icon":1662,"link":265,"linkText":693,"title":1663},"Opairly makes leave requests and approvals easy for the whole family.","🌴","Track and approve leave requests?",[144,1665,1667],{"id":1666},"planning-leave-how-to-avoid-conflicts","Planning leave: how to avoid conflicts",[140,1669,1670,1671,1674],{},"Most disagreements around holidays come from poor planning. Setting clear expectations early, ideally in the ",[181,1672,1673],{"href":487},"first week of the placement",", prevents problems later.",[711,1676,1678],{"id":1677},"agree-on-the-rules-upfront","Agree on the rules upfront",[140,1680,1681],{},"During the first week of the placement, discuss:",[152,1683,1684,1690,1696,1702],{},[155,1685,1686,1689],{},[158,1687,1688],{},"How far in advance"," leave must be requested (2-4 weeks is common)",[155,1691,1692,1695],{},[158,1693,1694],{},"Blackout periods"," — are there dates the family absolutely needs childcare? School exam weeks, important work deadlines, or already-booked family trips are worth flagging early",[155,1697,1698,1701],{},[158,1699,1700],{},"Holiday overlap"," — can the au pair join the family holiday, or do both parties prefer separate time off?",[155,1703,1704,1707,1708],{},[158,1705,1706],{},"How requests are made"," — verbal agreements are easily forgotten, so use a ",[181,1709,1710],{"href":1085},"written system",[711,1712,1714],{"id":1713},"spread-leave-throughout-the-year","Spread leave throughout the year",[140,1716,1717],{},"Encourage your au pair to distribute their days rather than saving everything for one block at the end. This prevents burnout and keeps the household running smoothly.",[144,1719,1721],{"id":1720},"school-holidays-and-peak-periods","School holidays and peak periods",[140,1723,1724],{},"School holidays are a balancing act. Families often need more help during these periods, while au pairs may want time off to travel or visit friends.",[140,1726,1727],{},"The key is early communication. At the start of each school term, sit down together and mark:",[152,1729,1730,1733,1736,1739],{},[155,1731,1732],{},"School holiday dates",[155,1734,1735],{},"Days the family needs full coverage",[155,1737,1738],{},"Days the au pair would like off",[155,1740,1741],{},"Any family holidays or trips",[140,1743,1744],{},"Having this on a shared calendar avoids last-minute surprises for both sides.",[144,1746,1748],{"id":1747},"sick-days-what-the-rules-say","Sick days: what the rules say",[140,1750,1751,1752,1755],{},"Sick days are ",[158,1753,1754],{},"separate from holiday leave",". If your au pair is unwell, they should rest — this time does not come out of their holiday allowance.",[140,1757,1758],{},"For the au pair:",[152,1760,1761,1764],{},[155,1762,1763],{},"Notify the family as early as possible",[155,1765,1766],{},"Rest and recover — you are not expected to work while sick",[140,1768,1769],{},"For the family:",[152,1771,1772,1775,1778],{},[155,1773,1774],{},"Do not pressure your au pair to work through illness",[155,1776,1777],{},"Have a backup plan for childcare emergencies (family, friends, or a local babysitter)",[155,1779,1780],{},"If illness extends beyond a few days, check in with your au pair agency for guidance",[144,1782,1784],{"id":1783},"public-holidays","Public holidays",[140,1786,1787,1788,1790],{},"The Netherlands has several public holidays throughout the year (King's Day, Christmas, Easter, etc.). Whether your au pair works on these days is something to agree on in advance and include in your ",[181,1789,184],{"href":183},". Many families treat public holidays as days off, but this is not legally required — it depends on your household agreement.",[140,1792,1793],{},"If your au pair does work on a public holiday, consider offering a compensatory day off in return. It is a small gesture that shows respect and builds goodwill.",[144,1795,1797],{"id":1796},"handling-leave-requests-fairly","Handling leave requests fairly",[140,1799,1800],{},"A fair process protects the relationship. Some practical guidelines:",[392,1802,1803,1809,1815,1821,1827],{},[155,1804,1805,1808],{},[158,1806,1807],{},"Handle overlapping requests early"," — if your family holiday and your au pair's preferred leave overlap, discuss it in advance so both sides can plan",[155,1810,1811,1814],{},[158,1812,1813],{},"Respond within a few days"," — do not leave requests hanging for weeks",[155,1816,1817,1820],{},[158,1818,1819],{},"Give reasons when declining"," — a transparent \"no\" is easier to accept than silence",[155,1822,1823,1826],{},[158,1824,1825],{},"Be flexible where possible"," — rigidity breeds resentment",[155,1828,1829,1832],{},[158,1830,1831],{},"Document everything"," — keep a written record of approved and rejected requests",[144,1834,1836],{"id":1835},"how-opairly-helps","How Opairly helps",[140,1838,1839],{},"Managing leave on paper or through messaging apps gets messy fast. Opairly's leave management feature gives both parties a clear, shared system:",[152,1841,1842,1851,1857,1867],{},[155,1843,1844,1850],{},[158,1845,1846,1847],{},"Au pairs ",[181,1848,1849],{"href":1085},"submit requests"," with specific dates and notes",[155,1852,1853,1856],{},[158,1854,1855],{},"Families approve or reject"," with a single tap",[155,1858,1859,1866],{},[158,1860,1861,1862],{},"Remaining days are ",[181,1863,1865],{"href":1864},"/en/docs/features/settings","tracked automatically"," — no more counting on fingers",[155,1868,1869,1872],{},[158,1870,1871],{},"Both sides see the full history"," — approved, pending, and rejected requests in one place",[140,1874,1875,1876],{},"It removes ambiguity and keeps the process transparent, which is exactly what a good host family relationship needs. ",[181,1877,274],{"href":273},[144,1879,446],{"id":445},[140,1881,1882,1883,1886,1887,386],{},"Leave entitlements are not a perk — they are a right. Treating your au pair's time off with the same respect you would want for your own sets the tone for a positive experience. Plan early, communicate clearly, and use a system that keeps everyone on the same page. Leave is just one of the ",[181,1884,1885],{"href":503},"au pair rules in the Netherlands"," you need to be aware of. And besides days off, make sure to also properly ",[181,1888,1889],{"href":824},"track working hours",[144,1891,453],{"id":452},[152,1893,1894],{},[155,1895,1896],{},[181,1897,1900],{"href":1898,"rel":1899,"target":463},"https://ind.nl/en/faq/au-pair-and-host-family",[462],"IND — FAQ for au pairs and host families",[144,1902,475],{"id":474},[152,1904,1905,1909,1913,1917,1921],{},[155,1906,1907],{},[181,1908,848],{"href":824},[155,1910,1911],{},[181,1912,482],{"href":441},[155,1914,1915],{},[181,1916,488],{"href":487},[155,1918,1919],{},[181,1920,498],{"href":384},[155,1922,1923],{},[181,1924,504],{"href":503},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":1926},[1927,1928,1932,1933,1934,1935,1936,1937,1938,1939],{"id":1636,"depth":507,"text":1637},{"id":1666,"depth":507,"text":1667,"children":1929},[1930,1931],{"id":1677,"depth":868,"text":1678},{"id":1713,"depth":868,"text":1714},{"id":1720,"depth":507,"text":1721},{"id":1747,"depth":507,"text":1748},{"id":1783,"depth":507,"text":1784},{"id":1796,"depth":507,"text":1797},{"id":1835,"depth":507,"text":1836},{"id":445,"depth":507,"text":446},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"Everything host families and au pairs need to know about holiday entitlements, sick days, and managing leave requests fairly in the Netherlands.",{"src":1942,"alt":1943},"/images/blog/au-pair-verlof-vakantierechten-nederland.webp","Au pair leave and holiday rights",{},"/blog/au-pair-leave-holiday-rights-netherlands",{"title":1947,"description":1948},"Au Pair Leave & Holiday Rights NL | Opairly","Everything about holiday entitlements, sick days, and leave requests for au pairs in the Netherlands. 14 days/year, fair planning with clear agreements.","blog/5.au-pair-leave-holiday-rights-netherlands","lpFRfx3wlRMZr-2q_8cevTf4FFk9oS8Xtma-k6Vq_9g",{"id":1952,"title":1953,"authors":1954,"badge":1957,"body":1958,"date":2433,"description":2434,"extension":520,"image":2435,"meta":2438,"navigation":525,"path":2439,"readingTime":885,"seo":2440,"stem":2443,"__hash__":2444},"posts_en/blog/6.au-pair-costs-netherlands.md","How Much Does an Au Pair Cost in the Netherlands? Full Breakdown 2026",[1955],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":1956},{"src":133},{"label":1628},{"type":137,"value":1959,"toc":2410},[1960,1963,1967,1970,1974,1981,1985,1992,1996,2006,2010,2021,2025,2032,2036,2122,2125,2129,2132,2136,2143,2147,2154,2158,2165,2169,2176,2180,2186,2190,2193,2196,2201,2205,2208,2307,2313,2320,2324,2362,2364,2367,2370,2372,2394,2396],[140,1961,1962],{},"Welcoming an au pair into your home is a big decision. Beyond the cultural exchange and extra pair of hands around the house, you want to know what it actually costs. The good news: the numbers are straightforward once you lay them out. But there are also costs that catch most families off guard. This article covers everything from pocket money to the hidden expenses nobody warns you about.",[144,1964,1966],{"id":1965},"monthly-costs-what-you-are-paying-for","Monthly costs: what you are paying for",[140,1968,1969],{},"Au pair costs in the Netherlands consist of several fixed categories. Some are legally defined, others are standard practice across the Dutch au pair industry.",[711,1971,1973],{"id":1972},"pocket-money","Pocket money",[140,1975,1976,1977,1980],{},"The minimum au pair allowance in the Netherlands is ",[158,1978,1979],{},"at least 400 euros per month"," (2026). This is the net amount the au pair receives for up to 30 hours of work per week. It is not a salary in the traditional sense, but a personal spending allowance. Most host families pay between 400 and 450 euros, depending on the agency agreement.",[711,1982,1984],{"id":1983},"insurance","Insurance",[140,1986,1987,1988,1991],{},"The host family is responsible for insuring the au pair for healthcare, liability, and repatriation. Specialized au pair insurance policies cost around ",[158,1989,1990],{},"30 to 60 euros per month",". Regular Dutch health insurance (zorgverzekering) is not suitable, since au pairs do not have a BSN number and are not covered under the standard healthcare system.",[711,1993,1995],{"id":1994},"agency-fees","Agency fees",[140,1997,1998,1999,2002,2003,386],{},"Most host families work with a placement agency. One-time placement fees range from ",[158,2000,2001],{},"1,500 to 3,500 euros",", depending on the agency, the au pair's country of origin, and the services included. Some agencies offer installment plans. Spread over a 12-month placement, this works out to ",[158,2004,2005],{},"125 to 290 euros per month",[711,2007,2009],{"id":2008},"room-and-board","Room and board",[140,2011,2012,2013,2016,2017,2020],{},"An au pair lives with the host family. That means providing a ",[158,2014,2015],{},"private room"," and meals. The actual additional cost for groceries, utilities, and water typically runs ",[158,2018,2019],{},"100 to 200 euros per month",", depending on your household size.",[711,2022,2024],{"id":2023},"ind-fees-and-residence-permit","IND fees and residence permit",[140,2026,2027,2028,2031],{},"For au pairs from outside the EU, you pay IND (immigration) fees for the residence permit application. These cost approximately ",[158,2029,2030],{},"210 euros"," (one-time). Some agencies include this in their package. Au pairs from EU countries do not need a residence permit.",[144,2033,2035],{"id":2034},"cost-overview-au-pair-per-month","Cost overview: au pair per month",[287,2037,2038,2051],{},[290,2039,2040],{},[293,2041,2042,2045,2048],{},[296,2043,2044],{},"Expense",[296,2046,2047],{},"Per month",[296,2049,2050],{},"Per year",[304,2052,2053,2063,2073,2084,2094,2105],{},[293,2054,2055,2057,2060],{},[309,2056,1973],{},[309,2058,2059],{},"400 - 450 euros",[309,2061,2062],{},"4,800 - 5,400 euros",[293,2064,2065,2067,2070],{},[309,2066,1984],{},[309,2068,2069],{},"30 - 60 euros",[309,2071,2072],{},"360 - 720 euros",[293,2074,2075,2078,2081],{},[309,2076,2077],{},"Agency fees (spread out)",[309,2079,2080],{},"125 - 290 euros",[309,2082,2083],{},"1,500 - 3,500 euros",[293,2085,2086,2088,2091],{},[309,2087,2009],{},[309,2089,2090],{},"100 - 200 euros",[309,2092,2093],{},"1,200 - 2,400 euros",[293,2095,2096,2099,2102],{},[309,2097,2098],{},"IND fees (non-EU)",[309,2100,2101],{},"~ 18 euros",[309,2103,2104],{},"~ 210 euros",[293,2106,2107,2112,2117],{},[309,2108,2109],{},[158,2110,2111],{},"Total",[309,2113,2114],{},[158,2115,2116],{},"675 - 1,018 euros",[309,2118,2119],{},[158,2120,2121],{},"8,060 - 12,230 euros",[140,2123,2124],{},"These figures are estimates based on standard rates in 2026. Actual costs vary by situation.",[144,2126,2128],{"id":2127},"hidden-costs-most-families-forget","Hidden costs most families forget",[140,2130,2131],{},"Beyond the fixed monthly expenses, there are costs that tend to surface during the placement.",[711,2133,2135],{"id":2134},"room-setup","Room setup",[140,2137,2138,2139,2142],{},"The au pair is entitled to a private, furnished room. If the room is not fully set up, budget ",[158,2140,2141],{},"200 to 500 euros"," for a bed, desk, wardrobe, and basic supplies.",[711,2144,2146],{"id":2145},"transport-and-bicycle","Transport and bicycle",[140,2148,2149,2150,2153],{},"Many host families provide a bicycle or reimburse public transport. Expect ",[158,2151,2152],{},"10 to 50 euros per month"," for a transit card or bike insurance. A secondhand bicycle costs around 100 euros as a one-time expense.",[711,2155,2157],{"id":2156},"dutch-language-course","Dutch language course",[140,2159,2160,2161,2164],{},"While not mandatory, many agencies encourage au pairs to take a Dutch language course. Costs range from ",[158,2162,2163],{},"200 to 600 euros"," per course. Some municipalities offer free or low-cost courses through local education centers (ROC).",[711,2166,2168],{"id":2167},"gifts-and-outings","Gifts and outings",[140,2170,2171,2172,2175],{},"It is common to include the au pair in family activities. Zoo visits, day trips, and birthday gifts add up. Budget roughly ",[158,2173,2174],{},"20 to 50 euros per month"," as a rule of thumb.",[711,2177,2179],{"id":2178},"phone-and-connectivity","Phone and connectivity",[140,2181,2182,2183,386],{},"Some families cover a prepaid phone plan, especially when the au pair first arrives. Cost: ",[158,2184,2185],{},"10 to 20 euros per month",[144,2187,2189],{"id":2188},"keeping-costs-organized","Keeping costs organized",[140,2191,2192],{},"The key to managing au pair expenses is visibility. Most families start with a spreadsheet or WhatsApp messages, but that gets messy quickly.",[140,2194,2195],{},"At the start of the placement, create a simple budget with all expected costs. Track spending monthly and discuss larger expenses in advance. This prevents surprises at the end of the month.",[261,2197],{"description":2198,"icon":2199,"link":265,"linkText":693,"title":2200},"Opairly keeps all au pair tasks, hours, and agreements in one place. Stay on top of your entire placement.","💰","Keep track of expenses?",[144,2202,2204],{"id":2203},"comparison-au-pair-vs-nanny-vs-daycare","Comparison: au pair vs. nanny vs. daycare",[140,2206,2207],{},"How do au pair costs compare to the alternatives? Here is a rough comparison.",[287,2209,2210,2225],{},[290,2211,2212],{},[293,2213,2214,2216,2219,2222],{},[296,2215],{},[296,2217,2218],{},"Au pair",[296,2220,2221],{},"Nanny/babysitter",[296,2223,2224],{},"Daycare center",[304,2226,2227,2240,2254,2268,2282,2293],{},[293,2228,2229,2232,2234,2237],{},[309,2230,2231],{},"Cost per month",[309,2233,2116],{},[309,2235,2236],{},"1,500 - 3,000 euros",[309,2238,2239],{},"1,200 - 2,200 euros (per child)",[293,2241,2242,2245,2248,2251],{},[309,2243,2244],{},"Hours per week",[309,2246,2247],{},"Max. 30 hours",[309,2249,2250],{},"Flexible",[309,2252,2253],{},"40-50 hours (fixed)",[293,2255,2256,2259,2262,2265],{},[309,2257,2258],{},"Childcare benefit (toeslag)",[309,2260,2261],{},"No",[309,2263,2264],{},"No (unless registered)",[309,2266,2267],{},"Yes",[293,2269,2270,2273,2276,2279],{},[309,2271,2272],{},"Flexibility",[309,2274,2275],{},"High (lives in)",[309,2277,2278],{},"Medium",[309,2280,2281],{},"Low (fixed schedule)",[293,2283,2284,2287,2289,2291],{},[309,2285,2286],{},"Cultural value",[309,2288,2267],{},[309,2290,2261],{},[309,2292,2261],{},[293,2294,2295,2298,2301,2304],{},[309,2296,2297],{},"Suitable for multiple children",[309,2299,2300],{},"Yes (no extra cost)",[309,2302,2303],{},"Yes (higher cost)",[309,2305,2306],{},"Pay per child",[140,2308,2309,2312],{},[158,2310,2311],{},"Important note:"," Au pair costs are not eligible for the Dutch childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag). With daycare centers, you do receive this subsidy, which can significantly reduce net costs. The right choice depends on your family situation, the number of children, and how much flexibility you need.",[140,2314,2315,2316,2319],{},"Financially, an au pair makes the most sense for families with ",[158,2317,2318],{},"two or more children",". While daycare gets more expensive with each additional child, au pair costs stay the same.",[144,2321,2323],{"id":2322},"tips-for-managing-au-pair-expenses","Tips for managing au pair expenses",[392,2325,2326,2332,2338,2344,2350,2356],{},[155,2327,2328,2331],{},[158,2329,2330],{},"Create an annual budget."," Add up all known costs and divide by 12 months. This gives you a clear monthly figure to work with.",[155,2333,2334,2337],{},[158,2335,2336],{},"Set aside a buffer."," Keep 500 to 1,000 euros in reserve for unexpected costs, such as a broken bicycle or medical expenses not covered by insurance.",[155,2339,2340,2343],{},[158,2341,2342],{},"Agree on payment dates."," Pay pocket money on a fixed date (for example, the first of each month). Use a bank transfer or payment app for transparency.",[155,2345,2346,2349],{},[158,2347,2348],{},"Keep receipts."," Ask your au pair to share receipts for any larger expenses you reimburse. This avoids misunderstandings.",[155,2351,2352,2355],{},[158,2353,2354],{},"Discuss expectations upfront."," Who pays for groceries if the au pair cooks separately? Who covers transit costs? Document everything in the host family agreement.",[155,2357,2358,2361],{},[158,2359,2360],{},"Use digital tools."," A shared system for tasks, hours, and agreements prevents costs and responsibilities from becoming unclear.",[144,2363,446],{"id":445},[140,2365,2366],{},"Hosting an au pair in the Netherlands costs the average family between 675 and 1,018 euros per month, all-in. That is significantly less than a full-time nanny and comparable to daycare for a single child. Add the flexibility and cultural enrichment, and it becomes clear why more families are choosing the au pair route.",[140,2368,2369],{},"The key is preparation. When you know what to expect upfront, you avoid financial surprises and set the foundation for a great placement.",[144,2371,453],{"id":452},[152,2373,2374,2381,2387],{},[155,2375,2376],{},[181,2377,2380],{"href":2378,"rel":2379,"target":463},"https://ind.nl/en/au-pair",[462],"IND: Au pair and host family",[155,2382,2383],{},[181,2384,2386],{"href":1139,"rel":2385,"target":463},[462],"Government of the Netherlands: Au pair in the Netherlands",[155,2388,2389],{},[181,2390,2393],{"href":2391,"rel":2392,"target":463},"https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/nl/kinderopvangtoeslag/kinderopvangtoeslag",[462],"Belastingdienst: Childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag)",[144,2395,475],{"id":474},[152,2397,2398,2402,2406],{},[155,2399,2400],{},[181,2401,848],{"href":824},[155,2403,2404],{},[181,2405,488],{"href":487},[155,2407,2408],{},[181,2409,493],{"href":429},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":2411},[2412,2419,2420,2427,2428,2429,2430,2431,2432],{"id":1965,"depth":507,"text":1966,"children":2413},[2414,2415,2416,2417,2418],{"id":1972,"depth":868,"text":1973},{"id":1983,"depth":868,"text":1984},{"id":1994,"depth":868,"text":1995},{"id":2008,"depth":868,"text":2009},{"id":2023,"depth":868,"text":2024},{"id":2034,"depth":507,"text":2035},{"id":2127,"depth":507,"text":2128,"children":2421},[2422,2423,2424,2425,2426],{"id":2134,"depth":868,"text":2135},{"id":2145,"depth":868,"text":2146},{"id":2156,"depth":868,"text":2157},{"id":2167,"depth":868,"text":2168},{"id":2178,"depth":868,"text":2179},{"id":2188,"depth":507,"text":2189},{"id":2203,"depth":507,"text":2204},{"id":2322,"depth":507,"text":2323},{"id":445,"depth":507,"text":446},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"2026-04-03T00:00:00.000Z","Complete cost breakdown for hosting an au pair in the Netherlands: pocket money, insurance, agency fees, and hidden expenses. With nanny comparison.",{"src":2436,"alt":2437},"/images/blog/au-pair-kosten-nederland.webp","Au pair costs in the Netherlands overview",{},"/blog/au-pair-costs-netherlands",{"title":2441,"description":2442},"Au Pair Costs Netherlands 2026: Full Breakdown | Opairly","How much does an au pair cost per month? Pocket money, insurance, agency fees and more. Full 2026 cost overview with nanny and daycare comparison.","blog/6.au-pair-costs-netherlands","tqfyUuQoY-oJuwsorsWRRuXjx59M58Gg3BbYKNPLoeI",{"id":2446,"title":2447,"authors":2448,"badge":2451,"body":2452,"date":518,"description":2966,"extension":520,"image":2967,"meta":2970,"navigation":525,"path":2971,"readingTime":1615,"seo":2972,"stem":2975,"__hash__":2976},"posts_en/blog/7.au-pair-rules-netherlands.md","Au Pair Rules in the Netherlands: The Complete Guide for Host Families",[2449],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":2450},{"src":133},{"label":1628},{"type":137,"value":2453,"toc":2954},[2454,2457,2460,2464,2467,2470,2475,2492,2496,2499,2517,2520,2526,2530,2533,2538,2554,2559,2576,2579,2583,2586,2638,2641,2644,2648,2651,2677,2684,2688,2691,2696,2733,2738,2749,2752,2756,2873,2877,2880,2889,2895,2901,2907,2913,2917,2919,2937,2939],[140,2455,2456],{},"Taking in an au pair is a deliberate choice for many families in the Netherlands. It offers flexible childcare support and a unique cultural experience for the whole household. But it comes with clear rules. Knowing these rules prevents misunderstandings and sets the foundation for a smooth arrangement.",[140,2458,2459],{},"This article gives you a complete overview of the most important au pair rules in the Netherlands, based on IND guidelines, agency standards, and common practice in the sector.",[144,2461,2463],{"id":2462},"what-is-an-au-pair-in-the-netherlands","What is an au pair in the Netherlands?",[140,2465,2466],{},"An au pair is not an employee. An au pair is a young person (aged 18 to 30) from abroad who temporarily lives with a host family as part of a cultural exchange. The au pair helps with household tasks and childcare, and in return receives room, board, pocket money, and the opportunity to experience Dutch culture and language.",[140,2468,2469],{},"This distinction matters. Because it is not an employment relationship, there are no labor contracts or collective agreements. However, there are clear guidelines from the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) and the sector that protect both parties.",[140,2471,2472],{},[158,2473,2474],{},"Requirements to be an au pair in the Netherlands:",[152,2476,2477,2480,2483,2486,2489],{},[155,2478,2479],{},"Aged between 18 and 30",[155,2481,2482],{},"Not a Dutch national (or EU national, depending on the arrangement)",[155,2484,2485],{},"Living with the host family",[155,2487,2488],{},"Has not previously stayed as an au pair in the Netherlands",[155,2490,2491],{},"The primary purpose is cultural exchange, not labor",[144,2493,2495],{"id":2494},"working-hours-and-schedules","Working hours and schedules",[140,2497,2498],{},"The hour limits for au pairs in the Netherlands are straightforward:",[152,2500,2501,2505,2509,2513],{},[155,2502,2503],{},[158,2504,160],{},[155,2506,2507],{},[158,2508,165],{},[155,2510,2511],{},[158,2512,170],{},[155,2514,173,2515],{},[158,2516,176],{},[140,2518,2519],{},"All time the au pair spends on household tasks, childcare, cooking, grocery shopping, or school runs counts as working hours. Personal activities and language courses do not count.",[140,2521,2522,2523,386],{},"It is wise not to consistently schedule at the maximum. Most host families plan between 25 and 28 hours per week, leaving room for unexpected situations. Read more about hour limits in our ",[181,2524,2525],{"href":824},"article on au pair working hours",[144,2527,2529],{"id":2528},"what-can-an-au-pair-do-and-not-do","What can an au pair do and not do?",[140,2531,2532],{},"This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The core principle: an au pair helps with light household tasks and childcare. They are not a cleaner, chef, or full-time nanny.",[140,2534,2535],{},[158,2536,2537],{},"What is allowed:",[152,2539,2540,2543,2546,2549,2551],{},[155,2541,2542],{},"Looking after the children (playing, school runs, helping with homework)",[155,2544,2545],{},"Light household tasks (vacuuming, tidying up, doing laundry)",[155,2547,2548],{},"Preparing simple meals",[155,2550,212],{},[155,2552,2553],{},"Accompanying children to activities",[140,2555,2556],{},[158,2557,2558],{},"What is not allowed:",[152,2560,2561,2564,2567,2570,2573],{},[155,2562,2563],{},"Heavy cleaning work (washing windows, deep cleaning, garden maintenance)",[155,2565,2566],{},"Full-time childcare without breaks",[155,2568,2569],{},"Working for third parties (neighbors, friends, the host family's business)",[155,2571,2572],{},"Tasks outside agreed working hours without prior discussion",[155,2574,2575],{},"Working more than 30 hours per week",[140,2577,2578],{},"The rule of thumb: if you would hire a professional for the task, it does not belong with the au pair.",[144,2580,2582],{"id":2581},"pocket-money-and-compensation","Pocket money and compensation",[140,2584,2585],{},"The host family is responsible for several financial obligations:",[287,2587,2588,2598],{},[290,2589,2590],{},[293,2591,2592,2595],{},[296,2593,2594],{},"Item",[296,2596,2597],{},"Guideline",[304,2599,2600,2609,2618,2628],{},[293,2601,2602,2606],{},[309,2603,2604],{},[158,2605,1973],{},[309,2607,2608],{},"Minimum of €400 per month (net)",[293,2610,2611,2615],{},[309,2612,2613],{},[158,2614,2009],{},[309,2616,2617],{},"Private room in the host family's home, meals included",[293,2619,2620,2625],{},[309,2621,2622],{},[158,2623,2624],{},"Health insurance",[309,2626,2627],{},"The host family arranges au pair insurance",[293,2629,2630,2635],{},[309,2631,2632],{},[158,2633,2634],{},"Travel costs",[309,2636,2637],{},"Any transport costs for tasks (school runs, errands)",[140,2639,2640],{},"The €400 per month pocket money is the standard minimum in the sector. Some families offer more, depending on the agreements and task load. Pocket money continues to be paid during leave and illness.",[140,2642,2643],{},"Important: the au pair does not pay rent or board. The host family covers all costs of accommodation.",[144,2645,2647],{"id":2646},"leave-and-free-time","Leave and free time",[140,2649,2650],{},"Au pairs are entitled to adequate free time and leave:",[152,2652,2653,2659,2665,2671],{},[155,2654,2655,2658],{},[158,2656,2657],{},"Minimum 14 holiday days per year"," (for a 12-month placement)",[155,2660,2661,2664],{},[158,2662,2663],{},"At least 2 days off per week"," (preferably including 1 weekend day)",[155,2666,2667,2670],{},[158,2668,2669],{},"Free evenings"," after working hours",[155,2672,2673,2676],{},[158,2674,2675],{},"Pocket money continues"," during holidays and sick days",[140,2678,2679,2680,2683],{},"Leave is planned in consultation. The au pair can indicate preferred dates, but the host family also has input (for example around school holidays). See our ",[181,2681,2682],{"href":429},"detailed article on au pair leave and holiday rights"," for more information.",[144,2685,2687],{"id":2686},"ind-and-residence-permits","IND and residence permits",[140,2689,2690],{},"Au pairs from outside the EU/EEA need a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands. The host family plays an active role in this process.",[140,2692,2693],{},[158,2694,2695],{},"The process:",[392,2697,2698,2704,2715,2721,2727],{},[155,2699,2700,2703],{},[158,2701,2702],{},"TEV application (Entry and Residence):"," The host family submits the application to the IND, usually through a recognized au pair agency",[155,2705,2706,2709,2710,2714],{},[158,2707,2708],{},"Awareness declaration:"," Both the host family and the au pair sign an awareness declaration (",[181,2711,2713],{"href":469,"rel":2712,"target":463},[462],"IND form 7150",")",[155,2716,2717,2720],{},[158,2718,2719],{},"Income requirement:"," The host family must meet a minimum income threshold (net monthly amount, indexed annually)",[155,2722,2723,2726],{},[158,2724,2725],{},"Registration:"," After arrival, the au pair registers at the municipality for inclusion in the BRP (Personal Records Database)",[155,2728,2729,2732],{},[158,2730,2731],{},"Duration of stay:"," Maximum 1 year, non-renewable",[140,2734,2735],{},[158,2736,2737],{},"Costs for the host family:",[152,2739,2740,2743,2746],{},[155,2741,2742],{},"IND application fees (approximately €210, indexed annually)",[155,2744,2745],{},"Any agency placement fees",[155,2747,2748],{},"Health insurance for the au pair",[140,2750,2751],{},"EU citizens do not need a residence permit, but must register at the municipality if staying longer than 3 months.",[144,2753,2755],{"id":2754},"overview-rights-and-obligations","Overview: rights and obligations",[287,2757,2758,2770],{},[290,2759,2760],{},[293,2761,2762,2765,2768],{},[296,2763,2764],{},"Topic",[296,2766,2767],{},"Host family",[296,2769,2218],{},[304,2771,2772,2785,2797,2810,2822,2835,2848,2860],{},[293,2773,2774,2779,2782],{},[309,2775,2776],{},[158,2777,2778],{},"Working hours",[309,2780,2781],{},"Schedule max 30 hours/week",[309,2783,2784],{},"Carry out agreed tasks",[293,2786,2787,2791,2794],{},[309,2788,2789],{},[158,2790,1973],{},[309,2792,2793],{},"Pay minimum €400/month",[309,2795,2796],{},"Not demand additional compensation",[293,2798,2799,2804,2807],{},[309,2800,2801],{},[158,2802,2803],{},"Housing",[309,2805,2806],{},"Provide a private room",[309,2808,2809],{},"Keep the room tidy",[293,2811,2812,2816,2819],{},[309,2813,2814],{},[158,2815,1984],{},[309,2817,2818],{},"Arrange health insurance",[309,2820,2821],{},"Cooperate with registration",[293,2823,2824,2829,2832],{},[309,2825,2826],{},[158,2827,2828],{},"Leave",[309,2830,2831],{},"Grant 14 holiday days per year",[309,2833,2834],{},"Plan leave in consultation",[293,2836,2837,2842,2845],{},[309,2838,2839],{},[158,2840,2841],{},"IND",[309,2843,2844],{},"Submit application and cover costs",[309,2846,2847],{},"Cooperate with procedures",[293,2849,2850,2854,2857],{},[309,2851,2852],{},[158,2853,30],{},[309,2855,2856],{},"Make clear agreements",[309,2858,2859],{},"Only perform agreed tasks",[293,2861,2862,2867,2870],{},[309,2863,2864],{},[158,2865,2866],{},"Culture",[309,2868,2869],{},"Create space for cultural exchange",[309,2871,2872],{},"Be open to Dutch culture",[144,2874,2876],{"id":2875},"tips-for-a-good-partnership","Tips for a good partnership",[140,2878,2879],{},"The rules provide the framework, but a good au pair relationship depends on communication and mutual respect. A few practical tips:",[140,2881,2882,2885,2886,386],{},[158,2883,2884],{},"1. Put everything in writing.","\nWorking hours, tasks, house rules, leave agreements. Write them down (or go digital) so there is no room for dispute. Read our ",[181,2887,2888],{"href":183},"guide to setting up house rules",[140,2890,2891,2894],{},[158,2892,2893],{},"2. Schedule a weekly check-in.","\nTake 10 minutes each week to discuss how things are going. What is working, what is not? This prevents small irritations from growing into major conflicts.",[140,2896,2897,2900],{},[158,2898,2899],{},"3. Respect free time.","\nWhen working hours are over, the au pair is off duty. Do not call or message about household matters outside working hours unless it is truly necessary.",[140,2902,2903,2906],{},[158,2904,2905],{},"4. Be specific about expectations.","\n\"Help out around the house a bit\" is vague. \"Vacuum the living room on Mondays and Wednesdays\" is concrete. The more specific the agreements, the less room for misunderstandings.",[140,2908,2909,2912],{},[158,2910,2911],{},"5. Treat your au pair as a family member.","\nAn au pair is not an employee. Include them in family activities, be welcoming, and show genuine interest in their background and culture.",[261,2914],{"description":2915,"icon":692,"link":265,"linkText":693,"title":2916},"With Opairly you can manage house rules, tasks, and working hours in one place. So you and your au pair always know exactly where you stand.","Keep everything documented?",[144,2918,453],{"id":452},[152,2920,2921,2926,2931],{},[155,2922,2923],{},[181,2924,464],{"href":460,"rel":2925,"target":463},[462],[155,2927,2928],{},[181,2929,471],{"href":469,"rel":2930,"target":463},[462],[155,2932,2933],{},[181,2934,2936],{"href":1139,"rel":2935,"target":463},[462],"Government of the Netherlands — Au pair",[144,2938,475],{"id":474},[152,2940,2941,2945,2950],{},[155,2942,2943],{},[181,2944,848],{"href":824},[155,2946,2947],{},[181,2948,2949],{"href":183},"Au pair house rules: template, examples and tips",[155,2951,2952],{},[181,2953,482],{"href":441},{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":2955},[2956,2957,2958,2959,2960,2961,2962,2963,2964,2965],{"id":2462,"depth":507,"text":2463},{"id":2494,"depth":507,"text":2495},{"id":2528,"depth":507,"text":2529},{"id":2581,"depth":507,"text":2582},{"id":2646,"depth":507,"text":2647},{"id":2686,"depth":507,"text":2687},{"id":2754,"depth":507,"text":2755},{"id":2875,"depth":507,"text":2876},{"id":452,"depth":507,"text":453},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"All the rules for au pairs in the Netherlands explained. From working hours and pocket money to IND requirements and residence permits. The full guide.",{"src":2968,"alt":2969},"/images/blog/au-pair-regels-nederland.webp","Au pair rules and regulations in the Netherlands",{},"/blog/au-pair-rules-netherlands",{"title":2973,"description":2974},"Au Pair Rules Netherlands 2026: Rights and Obligations | Opairly","All au pair rules in the Netherlands: working hours, pocket money, leave, IND requirements and more. Complete overview of rights and obligations.","blog/7.au-pair-rules-netherlands","ZbnY0Ac0WBvvprsy-0ejfY1e5yztptdqSHCk4BtYw3M",{"id":2978,"title":2979,"authors":2980,"badge":2983,"body":2985,"date":518,"description":3175,"extension":520,"image":3176,"meta":3179,"navigation":525,"path":3180,"readingTime":3181,"seo":3182,"stem":3185,"__hash__":3186},"posts_en/blog/8.opairly-launch.md","Opairly is live: the app for host families with an au pair",[2981],{"name":130,"to":131,"avatar":2982},{"src":133},{"label":2984},"News",{"type":137,"value":2986,"toc":3167},[2987,2990,2993,2997,3000,3003,3006,3010,3013,3019,3028,3037,3045,3055,3061,3067,3071,3074,3080,3086,3092,3098,3102,3128,3131,3135,3138,3141,3146,3148],[140,2988,2989],{},"Today, Opairly is officially live. An app that helps host families and au pairs keep track of tasks, working hours, and agreements in one place. No more scattered spreadsheets, WhatsApp lists, or paper schedules that disappear into a drawer.",[140,2991,2992],{},"This is the story behind the launch.",[144,2994,2996],{"id":2995},"why-we-built-opairly","Why we built Opairly",[140,2998,2999],{},"I'm Sjoerd, founder of Opairly and a host parent myself. When we welcomed our first au pair, I thought the organizational side would be straightforward. Discuss the task package, track working hours, set up house rules. Surely that fits on a single sheet of paper?",[140,3001,3002],{},"In practice, it was harder than expected. We used a mix of Google Docs, a shared calendar, WhatsApp messages, and loose notes. My partner and I sometimes weren't sure which tasks we had already agreed on. Our au pair was uncertain about her working hours. And when the agency asked for a formal weekly schedule for the IND application, we had to piece everything together manually.",[140,3004,3005],{},"There had to be a better way. So I started building.",[144,3007,3009],{"id":3008},"what-opairly-does","What Opairly does",[140,3011,3012],{},"Opairly brings together everything a host family and au pair need in one app. Not complicated software, but a clear dashboard that works right away.",[140,3014,3015,3018],{},[158,3016,3017],{},"Tasks and weekly schedule."," Create tasks (one-time or recurring) and Opairly automatically arranges them into a weekly overview. Your au pair sees exactly what is expected each day. Check off tasks, log hours, done.",[140,3020,3021,3024,3025,386],{},[158,3022,3023],{},"Hour tracking."," Your au pair logs daily hours, split into childcare and household work. Opairly monitors the limits: maximum 8 hours per day, 30 hours per week. This keeps you compliant with ",[181,3026,3027],{"href":824},"Dutch au pair working hour regulations",[140,3029,3030,3033,3034,386],{},[158,3031,3032],{},"House rules."," Set up clear agreements about meals, cleaning, bedtimes, and more. Opairly provides templates you can customize in a few clicks. Read more about ",[181,3035,3036],{"href":183},"setting up house rules",[140,3038,3039,3042,3043,386],{},[158,3040,3041],{},"Export for the agency."," Agencies like Nina.Care require a signed weekly schedule and house rules for the IND application. Opairly generates these documents as PDF or Excel, complete with signature fields. Check out our ",[181,3044,1008],{"href":441},[140,3046,3047,3050,3051,3054],{},[158,3048,3049],{},"Leave and holiday days."," Your au pair is entitled to ",[181,3052,3053],{"href":429},"at least 14 holiday days per year",". In Opairly, the au pair requests leave, and the host family approves or declines. The balance is tracked automatically.",[140,3056,3057,3060],{},[158,3058,3059],{},"Medical information and emergency contacts."," Store allergies, medications, and emergency contacts per child. Your au pair always has this information at hand when it matters.",[140,3062,3063,3066],{},[158,3064,3065],{},"Reference letters."," After the au pair year, you write a reference letter as a host family. Your au pair can accept it, share it with future families, or download it as a PDF.",[144,3068,3070],{"id":3069},"what-makes-opairly-different","What makes Opairly different?",[140,3072,3073],{},"There are plenty of planning and task management apps out there. But none are built specifically for the unique situation of a host family with an au pair in the Netherlands.",[140,3075,3076,3079],{},[158,3077,3078],{},"Built for Dutch regulations."," Opairly knows the limits: 30 hours per week, 8 hours per day, 14 holiday days per year. You get an automatic warning when you are about to exceed them.",[140,3081,3082,3085],{},[158,3083,3084],{},"Two roles, one household."," The host family manages tasks and settings. The au pair sees the schedule, logs hours, and requests leave. Everyone has exactly the right level of access.",[140,3087,3088,3091],{},[158,3089,3090],{},"Agency-ready exports."," The documents Opairly generates meet what placement agencies and the IND expect. No more manual formatting.",[140,3093,3094,3097],{},[158,3095,3096],{},"Bilingual."," Opairly works fully in Dutch and English. Your au pair switches to their own language with one click.",[144,3099,3101],{"id":3100},"how-it-works","How it works",[392,3103,3104,3110,3116,3122],{},[155,3105,3106,3109],{},[158,3107,3108],{},"Create an account"," and name your household.",[155,3111,3112,3115],{},[158,3113,3114],{},"Set up your tasks and house rules."," Opairly has templates to get you started.",[155,3117,3118,3121],{},[158,3119,3120],{},"Invite your au pair"," via an invite link. It is completely free for au pairs.",[155,3123,3124,3127],{},[158,3125,3126],{},"Manage everything from the dashboard."," Check off tasks, review hours, export documents.",[140,3129,3130],{},"It takes about 10 minutes to set everything up. After that, it runs on its own.",[144,3132,3134],{"id":3133},"try-it-yourself","Try it yourself",[140,3136,3137],{},"Opairly is now available with a free 14-day trial. No credit card required, no obligations. After that, it costs just 10 euros per month or 100 euros per year.",[140,3139,3140],{},"We are a small team and we actively build based on feedback from real users. If you are missing something or have an idea, we would love to hear from you.",[261,3142],{"description":3143,"icon":3144,"link":265,"linkText":266,"title":3145},"Try Opairly free for 14 days and discover how it makes your au pair household more organized.","🚀","Ready to get started?",[144,3147,475],{"id":474},[152,3149,3150,3154,3158,3162],{},[155,3151,3152],{},[181,3153,848],{"href":824},[155,3155,3156],{},[181,3157,2949],{"href":183},[155,3159,3160],{},[181,3161,488],{"href":487},[155,3163,3164],{},[181,3165,3166],{"href":503},"Au pair rules in the Netherlands: the complete guide",{"title":506,"searchDepth":507,"depth":507,"links":3168},[3169,3170,3171,3172,3173,3174],{"id":2995,"depth":507,"text":2996},{"id":3008,"depth":507,"text":3009},{"id":3069,"depth":507,"text":3070},{"id":3100,"depth":507,"text":3101},{"id":3133,"depth":507,"text":3134},{"id":474,"depth":507,"text":475},"Opairly has launched. The app that helps host families manage tasks, hours, and agreements with their au pair. Read the story behind the launch.",{"src":3177,"alt":3178},"/images/blog/opairly-lancering.webp","Opairly launch: the app for host families with an au pair",{},"/blog/opairly-launch",4,{"title":3183,"description":3184},"Opairly is Live: The Au Pair App for Host Families | Opairly","Opairly has launched: the app that helps host families track tasks, working hours, and house rules with their au pair. Discover why we built it.","blog/8.opairly-launch","CqsF7OnzKoQ3xczP5I5X0UuZxNstaEg2F8_eStvjGUE",1780497657386]