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AU PAIR

Join an international host family and care for children, with living expenses covered.

4.7
Rating from 12,774+ reviews

Why become an Au Pair?

Live like a local. Become part of a family.

Being an Au Pair is one of the most immersive ways to experience life overseas. Instead of simply visiting a country, you’ll live with a welcoming host family, become part of their everyday life and experience the culture from the inside out.

You’ll help care for the family’s children while receiving accommodation, meals and a weekly stipend, giving you the freedom to explore your new home on your days off. From weekend trips and local cafés to festivals, beaches and bucket-list adventures, you’ll experience a destination the way locals do - not tourists.

Along the way, you’ll build lifelong friendships, gain independence, develop valuable life skills and create memories that last well beyond your time abroad. For many travellers, their host family becomes a second family for years to come.

It’s more than a cultural exchange. It’s a chance to experience a completely different way of life.

Why become an Au Pair with Global?

  • Carefully matched host families. We help match you with a family that’s the right fit for both of you.

  • Everything organised. Your dedicated Trip Coordinator guides you from application through to arrival.

  • Live like a local. Accommodation, some meals and a weekly stipend are included while you stay with your host family.

  • Grow in confidence. Build independence, develop life skills and experience another culture from the inside.

  • Travel with confidence. Join over 120,000 travellers who’ve explored the world with Global, backed by expert support before, during and after your journey.

This could be you!

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Frequently asked questions

Why should I become an au pair?

Becoming an au pair offers a unique cultural exchange experience, allowing you to live with a host family, immerse yourself in a new language, and experience a different way of life. It’s an affordable way to travel, with accommodation and meals provided, giving you the chance to explore a new country while gaining valuable childcare experience. You’ll also build international connections and develop important life skills, such as independence and adaptability, making it an enriching experience for both personal and professional growth.

Where should I become an au pair?

Popular au pair destinations include Germany, France, Spain, Australia & Canada. When choosing, consider your language goals, cultural interests, and the type of immersion you're looking for, whether it’s improving your language skills or experiencing life in a bustling city or rural area.

How long can I be an au pair for?

Most au pair trips last between 6-12 months but the length can vary depending on the country and host family’s needs. Some countries offer more flexible durations, such as short-term stays of 3-6 months, while others allow you to extend your stay if both you and the host family are happy. This flexibility means you can find a program that fits your schedule and future plans.

How does being an au pair work?

As an au pair, you live with a host family and help care for their children, providing assistance with daily routines like getting ready for school or playing with the kids. In exchange, you receive accommodation, meals, and a stipend. You may also get time to explore the country, take language classes, and experience the local culture firsthand. It’s a unique, immersive way to live abroad, blending work with cultural exchange.

How much does being an au pair cost?

The cost of being an au pair is relatively low since your host family covers your accommodation and meals. You’ll need to budget for travel expenses, personal spending money, and possibly health insurance if it’s not provided by the family. Au pairs typically receive a stipend to cover personal expenses like transportation, leisure, and shopping. Overall, it’s an affordable way to live and work abroad while experiencing a new culture.

Why should I choose Global Work & Travel to become an au pair?

Global Work & Travel offers comprehensive support throughout your au pair journey, from matching you with the right host family to helping with visa applications and offering assistance once you’ve arrived. Our team ensures the process is smooth and stress-free, giving you peace of mind as you embark on your adventure. With their vast network and expertise, you can focus on enjoying your cultural exchange experience, knowing you’re in good hands.

Straight from the ‘gram

Why travellers choose Global Work & Travel

Plans change (and that’s ok)

Can’t travel right now? Swap your trip, gift it to someone, or save it for later with our Lifetime Deposit Guarantee.

Travel backed by actual experts

With 17+ years in travel and over 120,000 travellers helped worldwide, you’re in experienced hands from day one.

Be more than a tourist

Go beyond the guidebooks to discover hidden gems and experience each destination like a local.

Book now, pay your way

Don’t wait to start your next adventure. Secure your spot today and spread the cost over time with flexible instalments that fit your budget.

We’re travelling with you

Whether you’re planning, packing or already overseas, we’re here to help every step of the way with always-on global support.

Flexible travel, built in

Life changes. Your trip can too. Change your destination or departure date on most trips up to 60 days before departure and keep your adventure moving.

Travel inspiration

The full guide to becoming an Au Pair in the United States

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The full guide to becoming an Au Pair in Spain

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Au Pair