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video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=1Q8mwbVX7ss
blog: http://adventurousandrea.com/steps-to-become-an-au-pair-in-europe/
How to Become an Au Pair
by Andrea Nicholas
1. Explore websites
-www.greataupair.com
-www.aupair.com
-www.aupair-world.net
2. Determine personal stipulations
- What country/countries do you want to work in?
- What length of time do you want to be in Europe?
- Do you want to live in a city or the country?
- Is it important for you to have the weekends available?
- Are you willing to work weekends?
- Do you want to live-in or live-out?
- What is the minimum amount of money you are willing to accept per month?
- Are you willing to do (light) housework?
- How many hours are you willing to work per week?
- Will you work with single parents?
3. Make detailed online profiles
- Many pictures
- General letter to potential host families
- What sets you apart from other au pairs
- Ideal weekly schedule
- Ideal pay rate
- Other relevant qualifications
4. Reach out
- Mark profiles as "interests" or "favorites"
- Send families messages expressing your interest
- Create a blanket message to send out and cater it to each family
5. Skype with serious interests
- Discuss expectations
- Express concerns
- Clear up any confusion
- Meet the children
- Get a virtual tour of the home (specially, your bedroom)
- Figure out about the surroundings of the family's home
- Decide on a length of stay
6. Finalize
-After deciding which family you will be an au pair for, confirm that plans are in order
- Research visa options (if necessary, visit a consulate)

Visa for au-pair


These are the requirements to obtain visa for Au Pair to Belgium
General requirements:
1.

Personal appearance with appointment at

1 909 1014545 (PLDT only through landline or SMART mobile phone)


1 903 1014545 (Bayantel only through landline)
1 900 1014545 (Globe through landline and GLOBE mobile phone)
2.
Passport with no less than 12 months validity from the date the application is submitted.
3.
Two duly completed and signed application forms with two recent 2 x 2 coloured passport-size photos with
WHITE background
4.
A non-refundable visa application fee to be paid in PHP at the official Embassy rate upon submission of
visa application.
5.
Medical Certificate from one of the Embassys accredited clinics LISTED HERE
6.
NBI Clearance
7.
Original work Permit B for Au Pair issued in Belgium + the copy of the documents submitted in Belgium by
the hosting family to obtain the work permit (au pair contract, insurance, registration in the school)
8. Family composition of the hosting family in Belgium
IMPORTANT
The Embassy of Belgium does not require a plane ticket to be submitted when lodging the application. Any
agent/intermediary/applicant pretending the contrary is defrauding you. Unless otherwise specified a simple
reservation is enough.
The Embassy of Belgium does not accept to work with any au pair or travel agency (be it Foreign or Filipino)
Agencies who claim so are giving fraudulent information.
The Embassy of Belgium does not require any other consular fees than mentioned on this webpage
CONSULAR FEES. Any agent/intermediary/applicant pretending the contrary is defrauding you.
PS 1: Whilst processing an application, consulates might request the applicant to submit documents other than
those mentioned in the published lists. Extra delays will be granted in that case.
PS 2: Whilst processing an application de consulates might call the applicant in for an interview in the consulate.
Personal appearance to lodge the application is not considered an interview but a first contact to be able to
decide on the admissibility of the application.
Opening hours Monday to Friday: 8.30 AM to 12.30 PM
Visa applications: for security & organizational reasons always on appointment
Consular matters: 8.30 AM to 12.30 PM + on appointment
Visa Applications
Appointments for visa have to be made through the service centre. No appointments will be accepted if
requested through other channels than the Service Center (! can only be reached from within the Philippines)
Appointments for lodging visa applications:
Address
Multinational Bancorporation Center
9th floor - 6805 Ayala Avenue
Makati City - Manila
Republic of the Philippines

Tel:+ (63) (2) 845 18 69 to 73


Fax:+ (63) (2) 845.20.76
manila@diplobel.fed.be

Legalization of documents
This is the procedure to follow in order to legalize documents at the Embassy of Belgium
When to submit your documents, how much will it cost?
Documents for authentication (legalization) can be submitted at the Visa Counter of the Embassy, twice a week,
on Tuesday and Thursday between 10 and 11 AM or in the Honorary Consulate in Cebu (in consultation with the
responsible persons of the Consulate and only for Belgian citizens registered in the Embassy's population
registries)
Authenticated documents will be released after 1 week (longer if lodged in Cebu because of the postal delays) to
the applicant unless further verification is deemed necessary.
There are no age limits to a document to be accepted for authentication, as long as the Embassy is in
possession of the specimen of signatures we will attest. One should however observe that some Belgian
administrations (for example Belgian Embassies, some communes, ...) do not accept documents older than six
months after authentication by NSO (National Statistics Office) and DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs)
For the cost please refer yourself to the updated consular fees/rates on our website
Which documents, How to proceed?

The Embassy can only authenticate Philippine documents drafted and signed by local authorities in the
Philippines.

Belgian documents have to be authenticated by SPF Foreign Affairs in Brussels to be accepted in the
Philippines

Philippine documents drafted abroad can not be accepted for authentication by the Embassy in Manila.

All Philippine documents must be authenticated by Department of Foreign Affairs BEFORE you submit
them to the Embassy.

Civil Registry documents such as Birth Certificates, Marriage Certificates, Certificates of Non-Appearance
in the National Indices of Marriages or Single Status Certificates should be registered at the National Statistics
Office main office in Quezon City.
These documents should also be printed on NSO Security Paper before having them authenticated by DFA.
Local Civil Registry formats printed on NSO Security Paper will not be accepted for authentication.

Philippine diplomas or degrees need certification by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) before
authentication by DFA.

You can have your own signature legalized on a document only in the Embassy in Manila and only if you
sign the document in the Embassy.
Where?
Office of the Civil Registrar - National Statistics Office- G/F Vibal Bldg. Cor. EDSA & Times Street - West
Triangle, Quezon City - (8 AM to 12 noon and 1 PM to 5 PM) - Tel No. 926-7333 - NSO Helpline Plus 737-1111
Department of Foreign Affairs - Authentication Division, Consular Services - Old ADB Building, Roxas Boulevard
- Pasay City - 8 AM to 12 noon and 1:30 PM to 5 PM - Tel No. 834-4000
Address of the Embassy of Belgium - 9th Flr. Multinational Bancorporation Centre - 6805 Ayala Avenue, Makati
City - (10 AM to 11 AM) - Tel No. 845-18-69
Important Reminders
In some cases, an official verification of the documents may be requested before authentication.
In some exceptional cases (when serious doubt exists on the authenticity of the documents) a more thorough
investigation about the document could be requested.
If you cannot come in person to the Embassy and wish to delegate a representative, the following is required:

Authorization letter (power of attorney) from the owner of the document stating the purpose of
authentication and the name of the representative


Photocopy of the data page (1st page) of the owners passport and of the page showing the latest visa
issued by the Embassy of Belgium

Photocopy of the owners ID card in Belgium (if any). However, if the purpose of authentication is
naturalization, this requirement is A MUST.

In case the Filipino applicant has been living abroad for some time, his/her documents should only cover
the period when he/she was present in the Philippines.

Documents for authentication which are part of a visa application have to be submitted during the visa
interview.
Au pair in Netherlands
A residence permit as an au pair abroad gives young people the opportunity to get acquainted in a short time
with Dutch culture and society. A residence permit to stay as an au pair can be issued for up to one year.
An au pair is a foreign young person between 18 and 25 years old. He/she will stay with a host family and do
light household work and will take care of the children. In exchange for these tasks in the family, the au pair will
receive amenities such as room and board from the host family.
For more information about the au pair program, contact a recognized au pair agency in the Netherlands.
Generel information about au pair can also be found on the website of the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization
Service. Here you can find the public list of recognized au pair agencies.
The Philippine ban on Filipino au pairs bound for the Netherlands has been lifted after the issuance of the new
guidelines on the departure of au pairs to Europe.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs indicates that departing au pairs should handover a contract
containing at least a medical insurance which also covers repatriation costs. The contract must be duly
authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate in the Netherlands. In addition, the outgoing au pair needs
a sticker issued by the CFO (Commission for Filipinos Overseas), which indicates that the required seminar has
been completed (see au pair flyer).
It is up to the Philippine authorities to permit the departure of an au pair. For more information see the
newsarticle
Guidelines
The issuance of the guidelines would effectively mean the lifting of the ban of Filipino Au pairs bound for Europe.
Guidelines on the departure of Filipino Au pairs to Europe
Whereas, to facilitate the departure of au pairs bound for Europe and at the same time provide them safety nets
and protection without restricting their opportunities for self improvement, the following Guidelines shall
henceforth govern the au pair scheme:
I. Coverage
This Circular shall apply to Filipino citizens leaving the Philippines as au pairs bound for Europe
II. Definition of Terms
For purposes of these guidelines, the following terms shall mean:
a. Au pair: The term used to describe a young Filipino citizen, between 18 and 30 years of age, unmarried and
without any children, placed under a cultural exchange arrangement with a European host family for a maximum
stay of two (2) years, unless otherwise allowed by host countries.

b. Au pair scheme: Under this scheme, the au pair is placed in an immersion program in cultural and language
learning in the specific European country of destination. He/She shall live with the host family at par (au pair) or
on an equal basis with the immediate members of the host family, shall be given pocket money, share in child
care, light household chores and responsibilities previously agreed upon in an au pair placement contract
between the au pair and the host family.
c. Host family: This refers to the family that the au pair will be living with for the duration of the au pair contract.
Diplomats and other similarly situated persons are disqualified from being considered under this scheme
III. Documentation of Au Pairs
Filipino au pairs bound for Europe shall present to the Immigration Officer at the port of exit the following
documents:
A. Pre-Departure Requirements
1. Contract of engagement or letter of undertaking to engage signed by the au pair and the head of the host
family duly authenticated/notarized by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the European country of destination.
2. Copy of a valid passport with valid au pair visa or its equivalent to the destination country.
3. After the issuance of the visa by the respective diplomatic post, the au pair shall be asked to attend a country
familiarization seminar (CFS) to be conducted by the Commission on Filipino Overseas (CFO) which will then
issue a CFS sticker affixed on the passport. A minimal fee, which shall be determined by the CFO, shall be
charged for attending the CFS.
B. Post-Arrival Requirements in the Country of Destination
Upon arrival in the specific European country of destination, au pairs shall register themselves at the relevant
Philippine Embassy/Consulate.
Each Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the specific European country of destination shall maintain a database of
au pairs in their jurisdiction for monitoring purposes.
IV. Cost of Selection
The host family shall shoulder all travel costs related to the sponsoring of the Filipino au pair. This includes cost
of visa, CFS sticker, and airfare.
The au pair shall be responsible for the cost of the passport, medical examination, and other similar
documentation costs not shouldered by the host family.
The CFS sticker from CFO entitles the au pair to exemptions from Philippine travel tax and airport terminal fee.
V. Minimum Provision in the Standard Contract for Au Pairs
The contract of the Filipino au pair shall be as prescribed by the government of the European country of
destination and shall include a provision that in the event of death of the au pair during the term of his/her
contract, the repatriation of his/her remains and transport of his/her personal belongings and all costs attendant
thereto shall be shouldered by the host family. The host family may secure repatriation insurance for this
purpose.
In case the repatriation of remains is not possible, the same may be disposed of upon prior approval of the au
pairs next of kin.

In the event that the au pair becomes ill or injured to the extent that he/she can no longer fulfil his/her contract
and after proper medical assistance has been provided him/her, the cost of his/her repatriation to the Philippines
and all costs attendant thereto shall be at the expense of the host family. The host family may secure repatriation
insurance for this purpose.
VI. Applicability
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) shall be the lead agency responsible for the formulation of policies and
implementation of the Guidelines on the Departure of Au Pairs to Europe. The Bureau of Immigration and CFO
will assist the DFA in the implementation of these Guidelines.
Each Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the specific European country of destination may propose additions to
these guidelines to suit the peculiarities of the au pair system in their respective jurisdictions. Amended
guidelines by Foreign Service Posts shall be submitted to the Department of Foreign Affairs for its approval.
VII. Repealing Clause
All rules and regulations or parts thereof contrary or inconsistent with these Guidelines are hereby repealed or
modified accordingly. (Effective 17 February 2012)
Compulsory registration of Au Pairs at Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO)
Compulsory registration of Au Pairs at Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO)
Commission on Filipinos Overseas
Country Familiarization Seminar (CFS) for Au Pairs
Filipino citizens leaving the Philippines as Au Pairs bound for Europe, United States and Canada are required to
register with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) starting March 1, 2012. Part of its registration
requirements is attendance in the Country Familiarization Seminar (CFS) to prepare the au pairs for immersion
program in cultural and language learning in the specific European country of destination, United States or
Canada.
Au Pair is described as:
1) a young Filipino citizen, between 18 to 30 years of age;
2) unmarried and without any children;
3) placed under a cultural exchange arrangement with a European/American host family for a maximum stay of
two (2) years.
Registration and attendance in Country Familiarization Seminar (CFS) is done at CFO Manila only and is on a
first-come, first-serve, walk in basis. The CFO will only accept Au Pairs with complete registration requirements.
As a control measure, the Commission will limit the number of attendees per session based on the maximum
capacity of the orientation rooms. Clients are asked to come to CFO Manila office at least an hour before the
session to avoid inconvenience.
Registration of Au Pairs will start at CFO on March 1, 2012
COUNTRY FAMILIARIZATION SEMINAR (CFS)
Schedule of Country Familiarization Seminar (CFO Manila)
Orientation Seminar
Afternoon Session
Wednesday 1:00p.m. 5:00p.m.

www.happyaupair.com
REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION
Being an au pair in Holland
Being an au pair in Holland means being a part of The Netherlands residing family or household and in
exchange to their hospitality, your are expected to help them with their daily chores, which mostly taking care of
children and do some light household duties. You are expected to help the host (gastgezin) for a maximum of 30
hours per week wherein 2 days along that week you are free to do what you please (minimum once a month
these 2 days should be a full weekend). Your host family will provide you a minimum of 300.-euro (equivalent of
PhP17,000 to 18,000) maximum 340.-euro pocket money per month and your health insurance while you are
with them.
If you are a Filipina, you need a visum to come to Holland as an au pair. The host family with the help of Happy
Au Pair will apply for your temporary visum (MVV) to enter Netherlands, and once it is approved, you will be
advice to make an appointment to the nearest Dutch consulate/embassy within your present location and you
will present to the visa officer your requirements and he/she will interview as well about your goal/desire to be an
Au Pair in the Netherland. After a period of time, the embassy will issue a pick-up date of your MVV. This
temporary visum will be converted to a residence permit for au pair (VVR) with maximum 1 year validity. VVR
entitles you to stay with your host family as their au pair with grounds that you will abide by the rules and
regulations and laws of the Dutch government.
Procedures
Direct from Philippines
STEP 1: Pre-qualification
To be pre-qualified, you must be FEMALE, SINGLE, HAS NO CHILD OF CARE, AGE between 22-24 year old,
have a good command in English language, has a Bachelor degree ( or at least 80 successful units credited)
in
BS Education and/or BS Nursing. To verify your qualification, please send the following to
apply@happyaupair.nl
scanned copy of passport
scanned copy of NSO Birth certificate
scanned copy of College Diploma or Transcript of Record
Resume (MSWord format)
Letter to the family (MSWord format), this letter must tell the family who you are, who are your biological
family, what you know about au pair
(and your reason why you want to join the program, your
expectation..etc) and what can you offer to the family in exchange of sponsoring you to the program.
Attend the physical screening (schedule will be emailed individually)
***NOTE : AU PAIR is a CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM and NOT A JOB/WORK!!! WE WANT SOMEONE
WHO CAN SHOW INDEPENDENCY, SO PLEASE APPLY OR INQUIRE DIRECTLY TO US!
STEP 2: After pre-qualification
Attend the free Seminar/Orientation (per invitation only)
When a need for an au pair by a host family arise; we study the Host family profile, and pre-match it with 2-3
best candidates among 100's
We introduce these candidates via showing the pros/con of the selection, and then we give the telephone
number of the selected candidates for phone/skype interview
Host family make decision after interviews, and we inform the lucky candidates.
We asked for basic requirements from au pair (passport, CENOMAR, birth certificate..etc) and we process for
the MVV(temporary visa) of the au pair to come and join the host family.
Once the au pair arrive in the Netherlands, we help her get acquianted with Dutch cultures etc...and make
sure she has a nice and safety stay in the country and with the host family.

After 12 months (maximum), we make sure that the au pair is safely leaves the Netherlands (sometimes we
can help find a new host family in other countries like Denmark, Norway, Belgium but this has no guarantee).
**NOTE: NO FEES WILL BE COLLECTED FROM APPLICATION UP TO SUCCESSFUL MATCH TO THE AU
PAIR AND DURING THE 12-MONTH STAY OF THE AU PAIR TO THE NETHERLANDS. AU PAIR IS
EXPECTED TO JOIN THE HAPPY AU PAIR ORGANIZED CULTURAL ACTIVITIES/TRIPS FOR A MINIMUM
CONTRIBUTION.
Program & requirements
Program
Do you want to experience a different culture and explore the beautiful country of the Netherlands while taking
care of children and/or helping Dutch family with their daily chores? The Happy Au Pair program will definitely
make this come true!
During your stay in Holland we will organize trips and activities to introduce you to Dutch culture. Calendar of
activities will be posted (visit the website regularly) and/or will be emailed to au pair who are in the Netherlands
during the activity. Trips to Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are just few to mention, visiting old windmills,
participating in Dutch Queen's Day, Carnival, and Sinterklaas are surely something to experience. Plus if budget
and time will allow, we also wish you to see neighboring tourist cities of the Netherlands like Paris, Brussels,
Gent, Luxemburg, Cologne, Dusseldorf etc.
Dutch language course, First Aid for Children Workshop, Christmas Party/Dinner , visit to the famous Keukenhof
are also some of our regular activities for au pairs within the Netherlands.
We also require every successful au pair to obtain (with the help of Happy Au Pair) a regular museum card and
transportation card for easy and affordable ways for you to explore by yourself the Netherlands.
Requirements
When applying for the HAPPY Au Pair program you need to be minimum 21 years old and maximum 25 years
old during application. Must not be married, nor has a child under your care. A degree/units in BS Nursing and/or
BS Education is a pre, and has a good communication skill in English. You have to be in good health (physically
and mentally) and willing to stay for maximum of 12 months.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities of host family to the au pair
welcoming you as a full family member and encouraging you to take part in family activities
providing you with a room in their house for your privacy
making sure you are helping them no more than 30 hours per week
give you at least 2 days off per week
help you with integrating in the Dutch culture and their environment
provide you pocket money and health insurance
Responsibilities of the Au Pair to the host family
trying to integrate into the families live, being a part of the host family
participate in daily activities such as cleaning the table after dinner and doing dishes together with your host
family. Be aware that you are not staying in a hotel, but participating in daily family life
being flexible
being able to handle critics
being prepared for a stay in Holland! Read a lot of information about Holland and its culture/climate/way of life
before coming to Holland
being aware of the fact that children are treated differently in Holland as in your own country, and you have to
stick to the families rules.

Quick information about The Netherlands


Culture
Cheese, windmills and tulips are the most famous icons of our culture. But next to this Holland's culture has
more to offer you.
Language
The Dutch are considered to be good at speaking foreign languages. This is because Holland has a high
standard of education and an education system which focuses on the international position of the country.
English teaching starts in the last 2 years of primary school and is an obligatory part of the national exam.
Communication
Holland is known for its open and friendly culture for many decades. You will notice the flexible and open spirit
immediately the moment they are here. Therefore integration and adaptation will be easy for motivated au pairs.
Do not be afraid to ask questions to people you don't know. Dutch people are very hospitable and will help you to
solve a problem. The Dutch are known for their professionalism; they like to get down to business straight away
and have a no-nonsense culture. Many foreigners who come to Holland to work or to learn the Dutch language
find it surprising that even the manager director of the company is called by his/her first name.
Transportation
The Netherlands is a country that is simply made for bicycling. With its endless miles of cycle paths and flat
terrain, cycling is enjoyable, relaxing and more often than that a necessary way of transportation. The Dutch love
their bikes and have a special, widely used biking infrastructure. Besides biking, public transportation like city
busses, metros, trams (streetcars), fast train, intercity train, ferries are common ways to come from A to B
location.
Traditional festivities
One very famous traditional festivity in the Netherlands is the festivity 'Sinterklaas'. Sinterklaas or know as St.
Nicholas (patron of children) is the well-known figure during this festivity. This festivity is special in families with
little children and celebrated on the 5th of December (this is the counterpart of the evening of Christmas to
Filipino tradition). On this date, also known as 'pakjesavond' Sinterklaas rides his horse over the roofs of the
houses to bring the little children presents. During the period leading up to Sinterklaas, they also find small
presents in shoes they have left out near the chimney to full.
Another traditional festivity is the King's day or 'Koningsdag'. This is celebrated in honor of the King's birthday
and it falls on the 27st of April. At this day people sell their belongings which they don't use anymore on the
street and wear the symbolic orange clothes. During the celebration every town celebrates it with customary
family oriented activities and the best place to experience it is in the streets of Amsterdam.

The following are required for registration of an Au Pair:


1. Original and photocopy of valid passport
2. Original and photocopy of visa;
3. One (1) 2x2 or passport-size photograph;
4. One (1) valid identification card with photograph;
5. Original and photocopy of contract of engagement or letter of undertaking to engage duly
authenticated/notarized by Philippine Embassy/Consulate in the European country of destination;
6. Duly completed registration form;
7. Payment of PhP400.00 registration fee; and
8. Attendance in the Country Familiarization Seminar (CFS).
For more information about Au Pair Registration and Country Familiarization Seminar, please go to the following
website/link: www.cfo.gov.ph

________________________________________________________________________________________
TheBestAupair (website)
Au pair in Netherlands
Official Au Pair in Netherlands Program Information
There is an official program to become an au pair in Netherlands. Being an au pair in Netherlands is considered
a cultural exchange so to become an au pair in Netherlands, you are bound to the new migration policies for au
pairs and cultural exchanges. Different rules apply for coming to the Netherlands depending on your nationality.
Au Pair in Netherlands Mandatory Criteria
To be an au pair in Netherlands, you must be 18-30 for EU and EFTA citizens, 18-30 years old for working
holiday makers and 18-25 years old for other nationalities on an au pair visa
Have a valid travel document
Have sufficient funds
Be neither married nor have any dependants
Not constitute a risk to public order
Not have previously stayed in the Netherlands on a residence permit
Not have worked for the same family abroad
Be willing to stay for between 3 and 12 months
Host Family in Netherlands Mandatory Criteria
The family must consist of a minimum of 2 people
They must support the au pair during their stay in the Netherlands
The family must have sufficient income to support themselves and you. Remember having an au pair in
Netherlands means supporting another adult member in the household
The responsible person in the host family must sign a sponsor declaration
The responsible person in the host family must sign a declaration of awareness
The family must draw up a daily schedule
The family must pay for medical and accident insurance for the au pair
Au Pair in Netherlands General Information
Pocket Money
An au pair in Netherlands is paid approximately 300-340 Euros per month pocket money
Working hours, free time and holidays
An au pair in Netherlands works a maximum of 30 hours per week, with a maximum of 8 hours per day,
inclusive of a maximum 3 evenings of babysitting per week
An au pair in Netherlands gets 2 full days free time per week and at least 1 weekend off per month
An au pair in Netherlands gets 2 weeks holiday for a 12 month stay. Holidays for shorter stays are to be
negotiated
Accommodation and meals
An au pair in Netherlands is provided with their own room, 3 meals per day and have free access to the family
home
Travel costs
The au pair must pay all travel costs
Please refer to our Travel Partners for discounts on flights and travel insurance

Language skills and course


Basic Dutch is desirable for an au pair in Netherlands, but not compulsory
It is not essential for an au pair in Netherlands to attend a language course however an au pair should be
given the opportunity to participate in a Dutch language course. It is expected that the host family will pay up to
230 Euros towards the cost of the course
Length of stay
An au pair in Netherlands can stay for up to 12 months
Insurances
The host family must provide medical, accident and repatriation insurance unless the au pair is on a working
holiday visa. In this case, the au pair must bear the cost of a comprehensive insurance policy covering medical,
liability, repatriation and accident costs. For non-EU citizens there are Dutch insurances specifically made for au
pairs. We recommend selecting one local to your host family. For EU citizens, check if your health card and
private health insurance are valid in the Netherlands. Make sure you take your health card and private health
insurance documents with you to the Netherlands. If not valid in the Netherlands, you and your host family must
organise a mandatory health insurance for you
Job Duties
Au pair in Netherlands duties include child care and light housework
Driving
If you are required to drive as an au pair in Netherlands, you will need to be at least 18 years of age, and have
a valid driver's licence
TheBestAupair recommends obtaining an international driving permit from your home country if your licence is
not valid on its own in the Netherlands
Discuss with your host family what happens if you have a car accident, who pays, and have your agreements
put in the contract
More information about driving and driver licences in the Netherlands can be found here:
http://www.government.nl/issues/driving-licence
Visa Information
EU and EFTA nationals who wish to be an au pair in Netherlands require a valid ID card or passport to enter The
Netherlands. Neither an entry visa nor a work permit is required, however an official au pair contract must be
signed. For stays of more than 3 months, you must register with the local authority. Here you will be registered
with the Dutch Personal Records Database (GBA). You may need to provide a certified and translated copy of
your birth certificate. Contact your local municipal GBA to find out if there are any other certified and translated
documents you must provide. Once registered with your host family's local GBA, you then must make an
appointment to register with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND). IND will send you confirmation of
your appoinment, a registration form and a list of other documents you must bring to your appointment.
Different rules still apply for citizens of Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia who wish to be an au pair in Netherlands.
After registering with the Dutch Personal Records Database (GBA), they must apply for verification against EU
Law and request the issue of a certificate of lawful residence. Then they must register with the IND. This
procedure will be in place for Bulgarian and Romanian citizens until 1st January 2014. An end date for Croatians
has not been issued yet. Please refer to the IND website for further information.
Citizens of Canada, Australia and New Zealand can also become an au pair in Netherlands by taking part in a
paid working holiday. A Provisional Residence Permit (MVV) is not required for working holiday makers, however
a Regular Residence Permit (VVR) is required. Canadians participating in the Working Holiday Program (WHP)

and New Zealanders and Australians on the Working Holiday Scheme (WHS) can be aged between 18-30, must
not have dependents and must have a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one. The WHS and WHP
programs require participants to also have their own private medical, accident and liability insurance.
For all other Non-EU nationals who wish to be an au pair in the Netherlands, you will require a Provisional
Residence Permit (MVV) and/or a Regular Residence Permit (VVR). Under the new migration policy, you are
required to be sponsored from an approved au pair agency.Your sponsor applies for both permits for you at the
same time. This procedure is called the Entry and Residence Procedure (TEV). The TEV application fee is 600
Euro for those requiring an MVV. There is no refund if the application is rejected. Further information for Non-EU
citizens becoming an au pair in the Netherlands can be found here.
Non-EU au pairs must then register with the Dutch Personal Records Database (GBA). You may need to provide
a certified and translated copy of your birth certificate. Contact your local municipal GBA to find out if there are
any other certified and translated documents you must provide.
Citizens from Japan, Monaco, South Korea, the USA and Vatican City are exempt from requiring a Provisional
Residence Permit (MVV).
If an MVV is not required, the sponsor may apply for a residence permit for the au pair even if they are outside
the Netherlands.
More information about the change to the migration policy for au pairs in the Netherlands can be found here. We
recommend finding your host family/au pair at TheBestAupair and then together choosing an approved agency.
Visa applications must be made at your local Netherlands embassy or consulate before departing your home
country. Processing time can take up to 3 months. It is advisable to first find out whether you meet the
requirements, as application fees are costly and non-refundable.
All applicants requiring a residence permit will also require an official written contract with the host family, be
required to sign a declaration of awareness stating their stay in the Netherlands is temporary, provide a sponsor
declaration and undergo an examination for tuberculosis. Citizens of the EU, EEA, Australia, Canada, Israel,
Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Surinam, United States of America, Switzerland and Liechtenstein are NOT
required to undergo this examination.
The Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) provides an extremely informative Info Sheet for anyone
wishing to work in the Netherlands. Reading this info sheet is a must if you want to become an au pair in
Netherlands. For further information, you can contact the IND directly.
The IND website also has a residence wizard which determines your eligibility to work in the Netherlands and
provides a list of conditions you will have to fulfil, fees to pay and documents you will require. Please make sure
you adhere to requirements for translating and legalising documents. If not done correctly, you will not be able to
work as an au pair in Netherlands.
Additional Information
You can find additional information about being an au pair in Netherlands in the websites listed in the Relevant
links section on the right panel of this page.
If you have any comments regarding this page, please Email us - we value your feedback!
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https://www.aupair-world.net/au_pair_program/netherlands/au_pair/visa/non_eu
Au pair in the Netherlands

Information for au pairs from non-EU countries


Are you a non-EU citizen? Have you already done the Quick Check? On this page, formalities and visa
requirements to travel to the Netherlands are explained to you step by step.
Step 1: Find a family
Use AuPairWorld to find a suitable family.
Step 2: Check the validity of your passport
In order to enter the Netherlands you will need a valid passport, which needs to be valid for at least half a year
after you have left the Netherlands.
Step 3: Your host family chooses one of the recognised au pair agencies in the Netherlands
If you wish to stay in the Netherlands as an au pair, your host family must register with an au pair agency, in
order to welcome you to their home. Only an officially recognised au pair agency of the IND (Dutch Immigration
Office) is authorised to set up an application in your name.
The agency will assist both you and your host family throughout the entire duration of your stay and will provide
all necessary documents and information, as well as the au pair contract.
Step 4: The agency starts an Entry and Residence (TEV) Procedure
The recognised au pair agency will start a TEV-procedure (Entry and Residence Procedure). This procedure
consists of an application for an MVV (Temporary Residence Permit) and/or a VVR (Residence Permit Regular).
Residents of the following countries do not have to apply for an MVV, they only need a VVR: Australia, Canada,
Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, USA, South Korea and Vatican City.
Your au pair year starts the day your visa becomes valid, even if you arrive at a later date in the Netherlands. If
you dont need a visa, your maximum stay of 12 months starts from the moment you arrive in the Netherlands.
Step 5: Collect your visa (MVV) and resident permit (VVR)
Once your application has been approved, the au pair agency will inform you that you can collect your MVV at
the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of origin or country of residence.
After arriving in the Netherlands, you can collect your Residence Permit (VVR) from the IND (Immigration and
Naturalisation Office).
Step 6: Register with your host family's town council
Together with a host parent go to your host family's local town council to register on the GBA (Personal Records
Database). For this you will need:
an officially translated copy of your birth certificate
your residence permit (VVR)
your passport
Step 7: Pass a medical test
Within three months after your arrival in the Netherlands, you have to undergo an examination for tuberculosis.
Citizens from Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Surinam, Vatican City and the USA are
exempt from this examination.
The au pair agency in the Netherlands will provide you with any further information.
Pocket money, working hours, time off etc.
Useful information about pocket money, working hours, time off and other details concerning your au pair
placement can be found here.
Placement period
As an au pair in the Netherlands you are allowed to stay for a maximum of one year.

Duties
As an au pair, providing childcare and doing light household chores are your main responsibilities. A daily
schedule, in which your duties are described, will be drawn up with your host family.
Pocket money
In the Netherlands, you will receive between 300 and 340 euros pocket money per month.
Board and lodging
Besides pocket money, you receive free board and lodging. You are also entitled to board and lodging in cases
of illness and during your holiday as well.
Working hours
In the Netherlands, the weekly working schedule of an au pair must not exceed a total of 30 hours. You may
never work more than 8 hours a day or more than 5 days per week. Additional babysitting for your host family or
taking on a job on the side is also not allowed.
Free time
As an au pair in the Netherlands you are entitled to a minimum of two days off per week; however these days do
not have to be consecutive.We do however recommend host families give their au pair a full weekend off at least
once a month .
Holiday
As an au pair in the Netherlands you are entitled to a minimum of 2 weeks paid holiday per 12 months. You and
your host families can take this value as a basis for calculating the amount of holiday in case of a shorter
placement.
Language course/cultural exchange
As an au pair you are entitled to attend a language course. Your host family will assist you in finding suitable
offers within their area, and contribute 320 euros per year to your language course. The au pair programme in
the Netherlands is explicitly designed for a cultural exchange. Therefore, your host family will help you to
experience Dutch culture through various cultural activities.
The most important information for au pairs
Au pair stays in the Netherlands need to be registered through an official sponsor. AuPairWorld cooperates with
Triple C au pair, Wecare AuPair and Au Pair International as sponsors in the Netherlands.
Quick Check for au pairs
Do you wish to live with a host family and look after their children? Would you like to explore Dutch culture and
improve your language skills? Do the Quick Check to find out if you are eligible to become an au pair in the
Netherlands.
Quick Check for au pairs
Are you between 18-30 years old?
Are you single and without children?
Is this the first time you will go to the Netherlands as an au pair for a cultural exchange?
Result:
Have you answered all questions with "Yes"? Then off you go! The Netherlands is waiting for you! You can start
looking for a host family straightaway.
Have you answered one or more questions with "No"? In that case, you lack one or more important prerequisites
for becoming an au pair in the Netherlands.
Our tip: Think about an au pair placement in another great host country. Find out more about other host
countries.
Don't forget: the au pair contract, insurance etc.

Here you will find more information about insurance, contract, safety and similar topics.
The au pair contract
You and your host family should clarify in advance what you expect from each other and sign a contract that
includes your work schedule. The au pair contract is mandatory if you want to stay in the Netherlands as an au
pair. A basic contract is provided by the agency arranging the placement.
Contract termination
The au pair contract remains valid for the entire duration of your au pair stay. However, you are allowed to
terminate the contract before it expires if for example you and your host family do not get along. In this case, you
must respect a 14-day notice period. This allows both the au pair and the host family to find a replacement and
organise the return trip. However on serious grounds the au pair contract can also be terminated immediately
without any period of notice.
(Health) Insurance
It is mandatory that you are subscribed to a medical insurance plan for the duration of your stay in the
Netherlands. This obligatory health insurance is called basisverzekering. Dutch health insurance is available to
all residents and provides general medical care by specialists and GPs, including hospital care, medication,
rehabilitation, etc. The host family is responsible for the costs of your insurance. They must also take out au pair
insurance in your name including accident, civil liability, medical repatriation and baggage insurance. Examples
of au pair insurance plans tailored to au pairs are the Young Global Traveler health insurance from the OOM
insurance company and the ISIS Au pair insurance from the JoHo insurance provider.
Car driving and driving license
Host families usually prefer to host an au pair with a driving licence. Alongside this, you should also have
sufficient driving experience.
Since you will probably be expected to drive the car of your host family, issues of insurance and liability should
be clarified in advance. Should any damages result from an accident, it should be clear beforehand who will
have to bear the costs.
If you wish to drive in the Netherlands, you should first find out whether your driving licence is valid there.
If you come from outside the EU you are only allowed to drive for half a year in Netherlands with your foreign
driving licence. After this time, you will need to either exchange your diriving licence or obtain a Dutch driving
licence. For this, you need to take a written and practical exam. The written exam can be taken in English. Of
course there are costs associated with the exams, which vary per driving school. We advise host families to pay
for the costs of the Dutch driving licence of their au pair.
Be on the safe side:
Have you already spoken with your host family on the phone to find out how well you get along with each
other? For more safety tips, visit our page with tips for au pairs.
You should have sufficient knowledge of the language spoken in your host country. It will help you to express
your needs and wishes from the beginning. Especially if you fall ill or if you have to warn the children of an
immediate danger, having the adequate vocabulary at hand will prove most helpful.
Our basic idea of au pairing
Au pairs and host families registered on AuPairWorld undertake to respect the basic idea of au pairing which
also forms part of our Terms of Service.
'Au pair' = on an equal footing
An au pair stay offers young persons from all over the world the opportunity to live abroad for a defined period of
time. The main objective behind an au pair stay is a mutual cultural exchange which benefits both parties: The
au pair brings a new culture, a foreign language and a whiff of the big wide world into the host family. And whilst
in the host country, the au pair can learn the official language of the host country and gain valuable experience

with the help of their host families and by attending a language course. For this reason, child minding in one's
own country doesn't count as an au pair stay.
As a temporary family member, the au pair lives with the host family and supports them in daily life. On the other
side, the families temporarily host a "big son or daughter" and benefit from having a helping hand with childcare
and housework. In return, the families give their au pairs pocket money, as well as board and lodging. It is this
mutual process of giving and taking that lies at the heart of the relationship between an au pair and a host family.
To ensure that the au pair stay is a success, both the au pair and the host family need to be well informed about
the conditions of the au pair stay, as well as about the requirements both parties must meet. If both the au pair
and the host family gather the necessary information on requirements in advance and frankly communicate their
various expectations and wishes, the au pair stay is sure to have great results for all concerned.
What is an au pair?
An au pair is a young person between the ages of 18 and 30*, who is unmarried and does not have any children.
He or she wishes to go abroad to live with a host family for a defined period of time and within the context of a
cultural exchange. Au pairs thus have the opportunity to improve their language skills by living with the host
family, to get to know a new culture and to gain some valuable experience abroad. In exchange, the au pair
helps the host family with childcare and light housework.
In some countries a lower age limit applies for au pairs. Please find more information on this in our Info host
countries.
What is a host family?
A host family is a family (this term also includes single-parent families) raising at least one child who is 16 years
of age or younger and lives permanently in their household. The family hosts an au pair for a defined period of
time, treating the young person like a member of the family.
Duties of an au pair
Au pairs support their host families in connection with childcare and light housework. Despite providing this
support, au pairs should not be considered as domestic help, nor as cleaners, language teachers, carers for the
elderly, dog sitters or seasonal workers. Host families cannot expect their au pairs to have pedagogical training
or formal childcare qualifications and thus to be childcare professionals. Au pairs should be regarded as
temporary family members who, like any family member, pitch in to make family life better and more enjoyable
for all.
Working hours of an au pair
In many host countries, the working hours of an au pair are set by public authorities. We recommend that au
pairs should not work more than 30 hours per week (including babysitting). The USA, where au pairs work up to
a maximum of 45 hours per week, represents an exception to this recommendation. Both contracting parties
should be flexible when it comes to the working hours of the au pair. The family may, for example, ask their au
pair spontaneously to take care of the children for a little longer than usual in a particular week. However, they
would normally give the au pair a whole weekend off in exchange.
Board and lodging
Being considered a family member for a defined period of time, the au pair is entitled to his or her own room in
the host family's home. The room should have a size of at least 9 square metres, be lockable and have a
window. It should, of course, also be furnished and heated. The au pair should be given free access to food and
drink in the home and share meals with the host family. The au pair continues to be entitled to board and lodging
in case of illness.
Pocket money
In addition to free board and lodging, au pairs receive pocket money from their host families. The amount varies
according to the relevant host country. Some countries do not have official regulations concerning the au pair
stay and the amount of pocket money au pairs should receive. In this case, au pairs and host families may
consult our pages to compare the amounts of pocket money paid in other countries and agree upon the amount
the au pair should receive in their own case. This financial support is important to au pairs. Many of them use it
to pay for their language courses and could otherwise not afford such activities as going to a caf, to the cinema
or discovering their host country in other ways. The au pair continues to be entitled to his or her pocket money in
case of illness.

Travel expenses
In most cases, au pairs pay their own travel expenses. Please consult our Info Host Countries to find more
information on your particular host country. As a courtesy to their au pairs, many of the families registered on
AuPairWorld refund part of the travel expenses or pay the return trip for their au pairs.
Language course
Au pairs must be given the opportunity to participate in a language course in their host country. Normally, the au
pairs pay for their courses by themselves. Should they wish to do so, host families may of course support their
au pairs financially with these expenses. In certain countries, however, it is compulsory for host families to pay
for the language course of their au pair. Please see our Info Host Countries to find more information on this topic.
Holidays
If there are no official regulations concerning holiday time granted to au pairs in a particular host country, au
pairs who wish to stay with their host families for 12 months should get four weeks off during this time with
payment of the agreed pocket money. If au pairs stay for a shorter period of time, they need to agree with their
host families on a correspondingly shorter period of holiday. If a host family wishes to travel away from their
home during the au pair stay, they need to clarify in advance if their au pair will accompany them or whether the
au pair will make other arrangements. In any case, the au pairs continue to be entitled to their pocket money
during their host family's holiday away. If an au pair stays at the host family's home while they are away on
holiday, they need to provide the au pair with an adequate amount of housekeeping money for this period of
time.
Free time
Au pairs surely need some time off to see friends or discover an unfamiliar part of the country. Therefore, they
should be given at least one day off per week to do something on their own. Once a month, this day should be a
Sunday. Official public holidays in the corresponding host countries count as bank holidays for the au pairs as
well and they are not required to work on these days.
Tickets for public transport
We recommend that host families pay a monthly ticket for public transport for their au pairs. Should au pairs
need to take the bus, tram or train to pick up the children from a nursery or school, the host families should pay
for the transport accordingly. Should there not be any public transport available, the au pairs should be allowed
to use the family car to attend their language courses for example.
Contract and period of notice
We recommend that au pairs and host families write down all important agreements (such as the tasks to be
performed by the au pair, the working hours, the amount of pocket money and the arrangements for time off) in
an au pair contract. This ensures more security for both contracting parties and helps to avoid
misunderstandings. There are standard contracts for some countries, which can also be found on AuPairWorld.
Should a host family live in a country in which no standard contract is provided, they may use the English version
of the European standard contract, available on AuPairWorld. There is usually a minimum two-week period of
notice for au pairs and for host families for early termination. This allows host families to find a new au pair and
au pairs to search for a new host family or organise their trip back home in such cases. Contracts should only be
terminated without notice on serious grounds.
Duration of the au pair stay
An au pair stay is always temporary. A stay of one year typically represents the upper limit. There are also socalled summer au pairs who support their host families with childcare only for the period of the summer holidays.
Au pairs may agree upon the duration of their stay together with their host families provided there are no official
regulations governing this point in the corresponding host countries.
Our tips
Au pairs and host families should discuss the most important aspects of the au pair placement well in advance
and come to an agreement that is suitable and acceptable for everyone. This particularly applies to the pocket
money, working hours, tasks, recreational activities and holidays. These topics should ideally be clarified in
writing prior to the au pair's arrival. Should the au pair and the host family be unsure how to regulate certain

aspects of the au pair stay, we recommend (amongst other things) to put oneself in the other party's shoes. What
would you, as a family, want for your own children should they wish to work as an au pair in the future?
Experienced host families also know that a happy au pair can best ensure that their children are happy as well.
Tips for au pairs
"I would definitely recommend becoming an au pair. It's one of the best experiences you can have." *
(Lisa from Austria, au pair in Spain for 1 year)
Here are some tips in order to have a great experience as an au pair yourself:
Prior to your stay: Find out about your au pair duties and your future host family
The best way to prepare yourself for your placement is to get in touch regularly with your host family by phone or
Skype. This allows you to get to know your family a bit in advance. You can exchange views on your mutual
expectations and the duties you will be performing in your au pair position. Note down in a contract all important
things like your planned tasks, working hours, pocket money and free time. The contract helps to avoid
misunderstandings and provides security for both the au pair and the family.
Another way you can learn more about a future host family is by talking to their former au pairs. Many host
families ask their au pairs whether they may forward their contact details such as e-mail address or telephone
number to a future au pair. Your host family might at the moment still be hosting an au pair whom you could call
or contact via Skype. Why not ask them for the au pair's contact details? You can exchange information and get
a good idea what to expect in the family. And you may also get some good tips about how best to manage
things. This will give you a better idea of what it means to be an au pair in general and what is special about this
particular host family.
Au pair in a nice scenery in France "The au pair stay was a fantastic experience. I will never again get to know
another culture in this intensive way. However, I would advise all future au pairs to clearly define their working
hours and free time. Another important aspect is to always talk to your family in case you face any problems!" *
(Marina from Germany, au pair on Corsica for 7 weeks)
During the stay: Talking to each other is useful
After your arrival at your host family's home, speak a lot and often with them. Should anything be unclear or
bother you, tell your host family about it. Often, it is only a matter of misunderstanding or a cultural difference that
can be clarified quite easily by talking about it.
Important for your trip:
While you are away and on your way to the host country, you need topay close attention to your personal
documents. Your passport is a very important document and should never be handed over to anyone. A copy of
it will be sufficient for your host family.
Furthermore, do not forget to take enough money and all important telephone numbers with you, such as the
telephone number of your host family and embassy. Thus you will be prepared for any contingency.

Au pair in Norway

https://energyaupair.no/aupairs-rules-regulation/
Rules and regulations
Age
Between 18 and 30 years (au pair needs to apply for work permit before she/he turns 30).
Arrangement
The application for a work permit takes approximately 8-10 weeks. It has to be arranged before going to Norway.
Length of stay
A work permit can be granted for a period of two years maximum.
Embassy Fee
When au pair applies for residence permit, she needs to pay fee to the Embassy or Police. Au Pair is responsible
for paying this fee. The fee is 3.200 NOK for citizens of countries outside the EEA area.
Travel costs
The au pair must bear the travel costs to Norway herself/himself. The host family shall cover the au pair's
necessary travel expenses in connection with the au pair's travel home. This commitment will cease if the au pair
stays in Norway on another residence permit or if the au pair wishes to return to a country other than his/her
home country.
Holidays
The au pair is entitled to 25 working days holiday per calendar year. If the au pair has not been an au pair the
entire calendar year, but starts with the host family by the 30th of September, the au pair is entitled to full
vacation. Au pairs who have been au pairs throughout the calendar year, but starts after the 30th of September
is entitled to six business days holiday. The same rules will apply to any change of host family, unless the au pair
can document that the holiday has been held at the former host family.
Au pair should get vacation fee.
Insurance
An au pair with a valid work permit is automatically a member of the National Insurance Scheme (Folketrygden).
The au pair will be covered by the Norwegian national health service during her stay. To be included in the
scheme, the au pair must register at the "Folkeregister" upon arrival.
In addition, the host family shall cover the cost for insurance for the au pair which covers the au pairs
repatriation in case of death, illness or injury.
Work duties
The basic idea is that the au pair should take part in the host family's daily chores in the home. These chores
may especially include, for example, housework duties, child care and minding animals.
Working conditions
Working hours must normally not exceed five hours per day and 30 hours per week. The au pair is entitled to
one day off (24 hours) during each week. At least one such day per month shall be a Sunday. In addition, the au
pair shall have at least one fixed afternoon off per week. The au pair shall also be given an opportunity to attend
Norwegian language tuition and participate in leisure activities.
Housing
The au pair must be ensured housing (lodging) for the period being applied for. The applicant must live with the
host family for the entire period of employment and have his/her own room.
Pocket money
Minimum 5.400 NOK per month (before taxes).
Taxes

Must be paid from the amount of the au pairs pocket money. The tax percentage is estimated by the au pairs
monthly salary and the value of food and lodge the au pair receives. The au pair has to be registered with the
Tax Office.
Family requirements
The family has to be representative for Norwegian culture. The Norwegian language must be spoken as the main
language in everyday life.
A host family may only welcome one au pair at a time. The au pair lives together with the host family and has
his/her own room.
The au pair is not allowed to work for any employer but the host family.
Language courses
The au pair has to be given the opportunity to attend Norwegian language courses. The host family has to pay
for the au pair to attend Norwegian language tuition with up to 8.100 NOK per year.
Au pair's requirements
The au pair should have experience with children and a basic knowledge of English.
Period of notice
The contract is terminated if one of the parties has given a written notice period of 1 month.
Registration
The au pair has to be registered with the local police office within 7 days after the arrival to Norway in order to
receive a final residence permit. About ten days later a residence card will be sent to the au pair by post. A
residence card is a plastic card which is the size of a credit card. It is the proof that au pair has a residence
permit in Norway.
Social security
The au pair has to be registered with the Social Registration Office in order to obtain a social security number.
Work permit
The average processing time for au pair case is 8-10 weeks.
If the au pair wants to change host family, he/she has to apply for a new work permit. Au pairs can perform tasks
under the new contract as soon as a complete application for a residence permit has been submitted. The other
requirements of the permit must be met.
A permit to work as an au pair may be renewed. However, an au pair work permit cannot be given for more than
2 years. The application for a new work permit must be handed in at the local police station in Norway.
More information about your rights and obligations will be given to you when you are about to make an
agreement with a host family.
The window for opportunity is open
Working as an au pair means much more than childcare. It's an opportunity for young men and women to travel
around the world and learn about another culture while staying with a host family. Both au pairs and families can
benefit from this arrangement in a great deal.
This is the great way to learn and improve your language skills. Until you feel reasonably comfortable in the
language, you will not only find it difficult to meet the local people, but you will not enjoy simple tasks like
shopping or answering the telephone. It is surprising how quickly you will acquire a certain facility if you have a
basic grounding and if you have to survive in the language. Au pairs consistently report that when forced to
speak daily in a foreign language, they learn more in a month than during years of study at school.
In addition to the worthy goals of learning a language and experiencing a foreign culture, many people simply
want to see the world and they can do it when they become the Au pair. You will meet a lot of new friends and

have the possibility to travel, learn more about foreign cultures and discover a world through your own
experience.
It can also be a very good way for young women to assert their independence from over-protective parents.
Some au pairs learn to appreciate their own families more after intimate acquaintance with another family.
But you have to be ready that you can have some difficulties in the beginning. Since everything is going to be
strange and new you for you, you will have to get used to a lot of things, like new food, new traditions, and new
rules. Sometimes you can feel very lonely and homesick. But just imagine what a great experience you will get if
go through this entire thing.
The most important thing is to have a positive attitude and open mind to anything you take part in and do not
have too high expectations. It is a unique chance to get independent, learn a new language, experience a new
country, get new friends, learn about a different culture and it will give you a valuable experience for the rest of
your life!
So, lets start the window for opportunity is open!
Formalities after arrival
After your au pair permit is issued and you have arrived to your host family (within seven days after arrival), you
have to contact the local police station where the host family lives in order to make your residence permit valid.
In most police districts (such as Oslo police , Asker and Brum police, Trondheim police, police in Stavanger,
police in Bergen and so on) you must book an appointment in advance.
At the police office you will have your photograph and fingerprints taken, and then the police will order a
residence card for you. It will take up to 10 working days from the date you visited the police until the card is sent
to you by post.
Immediately after visiting the police you must visit the "Folkeregister/Tax-office" in order to be included in the
Norwegian social security system, to receive a Norwegian id-number and to receive your income tax card.
Everyone working in Norway must have a tax card. In order to calculate the correct amount of tax to deduct, the
tax authorities must be informed about how much the employee expects to earn in Norway and for how long
he/she intends to stay here.
When you will get a tax card, you have to give it to your host family and your host family should deduct tax from
you pocket money and pay it to the tax-authorities.
Au pair is responsible to check that the taxes are paid, while it is the host familys duty as employers to actually
pay the taxes every month when paying the pocket money to the au pair.
Everyone coming to Norway from countries with a high incidence of tuberculosis must agree to be tested for
tuberculosis. The police should inform you of your obligation to be tested and will provide information about
where this can be done.
The test will include tuberculin tests and chest radiography. The mandatory tuberculosis test is free of charge.
The au pairs, placed by Energy Au Pair, will receive an "Energy Au Pair Book", where the detailed instructions
and advices regarding the formalities in Norway.

Advices

We would like to give you important information and some advises which will probably come in use in the
beginning of your staying in Norway.
it would great if you prepared before arriving. Read about Norway and bring some dictionary with you. You
might have a small problem with communication on the beginning, since it will be a kind of strange to speak
foreign language but you will get use to this very soon.
the most important thing is to have a good attitude and be open-minded on the beginning. Remember that your
family may feel even shyer than you do. To overcome your own shyness, focus your attention on the children. No
one will expect you to be a great conversationalist, but some attempts in general (like question about their
country) will help you in the beginning. You may want to tell them more about your country (avoid criticism); the
small presents (something what can express your country) for family will make a friendly atmosphere.
no matter how tired you are when you first arrive, spend a little time socializing with the family before going off
to your room. You will probably be given a tour of the house and be offered some refreshment. It would be
unusual if you were expected to do any work on your first day but show your willingness to help even if you are
very jet-lagged and ready to fall into bed. Families nearly always expect you to eat your first meal with them so
you can get to know each other better. You should always offer to help clear the dishes before you take your
leave for the night.
have a meal together very nice and important tradition for the Norwegian families. If you want to be treated
like a member of family try to follow those small rules. It is not so difficult for you but your family will be very
appreciated for respecting their traditions.
dont be hesitating to ask something if you are not sure. Maybe you expect the family to show you around in the
area, explain to you how the dishwasher works etc. without this happening. In a situation like this DO NOT be
passive, but ask if they could show you or help you. Being polite is good, but it is better to ask one time too
many than just wait for things to happen.
when you meet the children in the family, it can look like they dont like you at all on the beginning. But try to
understand them - they might just have said good-bye to another a pair or nanny. In most situations the
children will test out your limitations and restrictions to find out how far they can pull the string on your patience.
Of course you want to make a good impression in the beginning, but be careful so the children do not start to
rule over you. Try to spend more time when the family is together, play with children, be a part of their life and
very soon you will notice that they really like you. Be patient and children will soon start to respond if you pay
them enough attention.
after a while you will feel more comfortable and some au pairs feel that it is not all right any more to clean and
tide up for the family. Try not to have unrealistic expectations and never be seduced into thinking that you are on
holiday. You will no doubt have opportunities, but first and foremost you are abroad to work.
if at all possible try to save a certain amount of money so that you won't be financially dependent on the family
if things don't work out. Bear in mind that you might not be paid for the first fortnight or month, so you will need
some money to tide you over, preferably in Euros or US dollars as appropriate.
both you and the host-family have expectations towards each other and to the time you will spend together. It
is vital that both parts act with a positive mind and attitude, and follow the rules described in this information
letter. Of different reasons it happens that both host family and au pair find it difficult to work things out, even
after talking things through. If you have acceptable reasons, you have the right to find another family. No one will
force you to stay somewhere that you do not like, but we cannot change your host family when there is not a real
and legitimate reason. If there is reason for changing your family, we will be glad to help you.

Acceptable reasons for changing your host family are as follows:

You dont get your salary every month;


The host family dont provide you adequate food/nutrition ;
You do not have your own private bedroom;
You are not allowed to attend your studies ;
You are not treated as a friend or welcome member of their household;
The host family has asked you to leave;
The host family ask you to work more than you suppose to during long time.
We are here for you and please do not hesitate to call us if you have any questions or problems.
Our help and support
We will supervise the process of applying for your working permit and provide you with necessary information
before and after your arrival to Norway.
We really understand the importance of a new social network for the au pairs, so we can provide you an au pair
list shortly upon your arrival, where you can find contact information of our au pairs, who work in Norway. We
recommend you to make contact to other girls who work in the same area as you!
We arrange au pair meetings few times per year you are more than welcome to attend. You can meet new
friends, talk about your challenges and get answers on your questions. We offer a free training in our meetings
such as:
course in First Aid (so you will feel more confident when you stay alone with children),
advises from experienced kids psychologists (how to become a friend with children, how to get their respect
and love).
You will get opportunity to learn more about Norway, take part in our competitions and win some cool presents.

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