Au Pair Rules in the Netherlands: The Complete Guide for Host Families

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.

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.

What is an au pair in the Netherlands?

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.

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.

Requirements to be an au pair in the Netherlands:

• Aged between 18 and 30
• Not a Dutch national (or EU national, depending on the arrangement)
• Living with the host family
• Has not previously stayed as an au pair in the Netherlands
• The primary purpose is cultural exchange, not labor

Working hours and schedules

The hour limits for au pairs in the Netherlands are straightforward:

• Maximum 30 hours per week
• Maximum 8 hours per day
• Maximum 5 working days per week
• At least 2 full days off per week

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.

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 article on au pair working hours.

What can an au pair do and not do?

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.

What is allowed:

• Looking after the children (playing, school runs, helping with homework)
• Light household tasks (vacuuming, tidying up, doing laundry)
• Preparing simple meals
• Grocery shopping for the household
• Accompanying children to activities

What is not allowed:

• Heavy cleaning work (washing windows, deep cleaning, garden maintenance)
• Full-time childcare without breaks
• Working for third parties (neighbors, friends, the host family's business)
• Tasks outside agreed working hours without prior discussion
• Working more than 30 hours per week

The rule of thumb: if you would hire a professional for the task, it does not belong with the au pair.

Pocket money and compensation

The host family is responsible for several financial obligations:

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.

Important: the au pair does not pay rent or board. The host family covers all costs of accommodation.

Leave and free time

Au pairs are entitled to adequate free time and leave:

• Minimum 14 holiday days per year (for a 12-month placement)
• At least 2 days off per week (preferably including 1 weekend day)
• Free evenings after working hours
• Pocket money continues during holidays and sick days

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 detailed article on au pair leave and holiday rights for more information.

IND and residence permits

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.

The process:

1. TEV application (Entry and Residence): The host family submits the application to the IND, usually through a recognized au pair agency
2. Awareness declaration: Both the host family and the au pair sign an awareness declaration (IND form 7150)
3. Income requirement: The host family must meet a minimum income threshold (net monthly amount, indexed annually)
4. Registration: After arrival, the au pair registers at the municipality for inclusion in the BRP (Personal Records Database)
5. Duration of stay: Maximum 1 year, non-renewable

Costs for the host family:

• IND application fees (approximately €210, indexed annually)
• Any agency placement fees
• Health insurance for the au pair

EU citizens do not need a residence permit, but must register at the municipality if staying longer than 3 months.

Overview: rights and obligations

Tips for a good partnership

The rules provide the framework, but a good au pair relationship depends on communication and mutual respect. A few practical tips:

1. Put everything in writing. Working hours, tasks, house rules, leave agreements. Write them down (or go digital) so there is no room for dispute. Read our guide to setting up house rules.

2. Schedule a weekly check-in. Take 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.

3. Respect free time. When 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.

4. Be specific about expectations. "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.

5. Treat your au pair as a family member. An au pair is not an employee. Include them in family activities, be welcoming, and show genuine interest in their background and culture.

Sources

• IND — Background article: au pairs
• IND — Au pair awareness declaration (PDF)
• Government of the Netherlands — Au pair

Related articles

• How many hours can an au pair work in the Netherlands?
• Au pair house rules: template, examples and tips
• Free weekly schedule templates for host families