If you`re considering becoming an au pair in Europe, it`s important to understand the legal agreement involved. An au pair is a young person who lives with a host family in a foreign country and helps with childcare and light household duties in exchange for room, board, and a small stipend. To protect both the au pair and the host family, European countries have specific regulations in place known as the European Au Pair Agreement.

The European Au Pair Agreement is a set of guidelines established by the European Union to ensure that the needs and rights of both the au pair and the host family are met. The agreement includes provisions for working hours, rest periods, vacation time, and language classes. It also outlines the responsibilities of both parties, including the specific duties and expectations of the au pair and the host family.

One of the most important aspects of the European Au Pair Agreement is the working hours. An au pair is not allowed to work more than 30 hours per week, and no more than 5 hours per day. They must also be given a minimum of one day off per week, and at least two days off per month. Additionally, the agreement specifies that the au pair should not be responsible for heavy household duties, such as cleaning the entire house or doing the laundry for the entire family.

Another key aspect of the agreement is language classes. The host family is required to provide the au pair with the opportunity to attend language classes in the host country, either for free or at a reduced cost. This not only benefits the au pair in terms of language development, but also enhances their cultural experience and enables them to better communicate with the host family and the children they are caring for.

The European Au Pair Agreement also mandates that the host family provide room and board for the au pair, as well as a small stipend. The specific amount of the stipend varies by country, but it should be enough to cover basic expenses such as transportation and personal items.

Overall, the European Au Pair Agreement is an important framework for ensuring that both the au pair and the host family have a positive and beneficial experience. By understanding the guidelines and working within them, everyone involved can benefit from the cultural exchange and personal growth that the au pair experience provides.