This is a post about au pair age limit.
Being over 25 doesn’t mean your au pair dreams are over. While it’s true that many traditional programmes set au pair age limits between 18 and 25, a number of countries and families are open to older candidates. In fact, being older can be a strength. You’re likely more mature, responsible and independent than someone who’s just left school. That can be very appealing to certain host families.
Below is a list of countries where a higher au pair age limit is still possible, including the most up-to-date information on age requirements, visa types and what makes each destination a great place to live and work.
Read more: How to Become an Au Pair: Your Starting Guide
Austria
Austria also welcomes au pairs aged 18 to 27. You’ll need to secure a placement with a host family before applying for the visa and will typically be expected to attend a German course while living there. Austria offers a blend of nature and culture – think Alpine hikes at the weekend and music-filled evenings in Vienna. It’s a slower pace of life than in some larger countries but offers a cosy and high-quality living experience.
Belgium
In Belgium, the age limit for au pairs is 26. The country is multilingual so you might find yourself learning Dutch, French or even a bit of German depending on your placement. Belgium is small but well-connected for weekend travel. Brussels and Antwerp tend to offer more urban placements while rural areas offer quieter and often more traditional experiences. Leuven is a really cute city with a cool music festival right outside! (Rock Werchter – I had the best time there! Let me know if you want to know more about it)
Denmark
Denmark accepts au pairs between the ages of 17 and 29. It’s common for families to ask for help with housework more than with childcare. The Danish lifestyle is famously relaxed and inclusive and cities like Copenhagen offer both international flair and cosy neighbourhood living. Many au pairs also appreciate the generous stipend compared to other European countries (although life does cost more in the Northern countries!).
Germany
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for au pairs and accepts applicants up to 26 years old. You’ll need a basic knowledge of German (A1 level), a valid passport and a contract with a host family. The visa is relatively easy to obtain and comes with the added benefit of a language course as part of your rights. Germany is an excellent base for European travel and offers a rich cultural experience whether you’re placed in a village or a major city like Berlin or Munich. I lived in a little village but had excellent links to the bigger cities. Besides, Germany offers many opportunities for staying after your au pair year.
Read more: How to Move to Germany on a Budget
Finland
In Finland, the upper age limit for au pairs is generally 30. You can stay for up to a year and are often expected to help for around 30 hours a week. Finnish families value personal space and independence which often translates into respectful relationships between au pairs and hosts. The pace of life is peaceful and nature is a big part of everyday life. This is an ideal destination for those seeking a slower lifestyle and love the idea of snow in winter and forests in summer.
One thing to keep in mind: you can only be an au pair in Finland if you haven’t been an au pair elsewhere. On a more positive note, according to the UN, Finland has been the happiest country in the world for the past 8 years!
France
France allows au pairs aged up to 30 years old. French families often request help with school runs and light housework and usually expect you to attend French language classes. Living in France as an au pair offers not just the chance to improve your French but to dive head-first into a culture known for its food, fashion and art. Paris placements are popular but there’s a real charm in living in the French countryside or small coastal towns. It’s a big country with distinct regions, each with its own special flare. Besides, France allows you to stay up to 2 year as an au pair. The country also offers many opportunities for staying after your au pair is finished.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg has a formal au pair programme for those aged 18 to 30. Because it’s such a small and wealthy country, families are often experienced in hosting au pairs and tend to treat them well. Luxembourg is also a great location for cross-border exploration. Germany, France and Belgium are all just a short train ride away. Knowledge of French or German will help but many families are multilingual. It’s very common to find English speakers, even Portuguese! The whole country looks like a fairytale setting.
Sweden
Sweden allows au pairs aged 18 to 30. Families often treat au pairs like members of the household and you’ll usually get a private room, meals and a stipend. Sweden is a beautiful country with a strong sense of work-life balance, excellent public transport and a focus on nature and wellbeing. On my podcast I’ve interviewed many people who were au pairs in Sweden as well as other countries and all them wanted to have stayed in Sweden. Sadly, it’s not very easy to stay after your au pair year, hence they move to be au pairs elsewhere.
Switzerland
If you’re in the EU, Switzerland accepts au pairs up to the age of 30 (25 if non-EU). The official language varies by region (German, French, Italian, Romansh) and you’ll often be required to take a language course as part of the placement. The country offers high salaries and exceptional quality of life but be prepared for a higher cost of living. Still with efficient public transport and postcard-perfect cities and mountains, Switzerland is a dream location for many. I don’t know about you but, personally, it’s one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever been to!
China
China offers an au pair programme for participants up to the age of 29. This is an opportunity not only to work with children but to experience one of the most culturally rich and diverse countries in the world. The visa process is a bit different. It’s typically handled by the agencies that arrange placements and you’re likely to be expected to help with English teaching. Mandarin is helpful but not essential. Expect to live in large cities like Beijing or Shanghai with families interested in Western culture and language exchange.
USA
In the United States, the au pair programme is highly regulated and allows participants up to 26 years old. You must apply through an authorised agency and meet requirements like 200 hours of childcare experience and an intermediate level of English. Most au pairs live in suburban areas. The programme includes an educational component, which means you’ll need to take classes at a local college during your stay. It doesn’t have to be English, it can be anything on offer that fits the family contribution or you can pay extra for others. The US is a great option if you want to experience American culture, explore diverse regions and improve your English.
Seasonal Au Pair
Many people want to be au pairs but not really commit to a whole year. In countries like France or Spain you might find many families looking for help over the summer only. That means you’re only there for less than 90 days on a tourist visa, therefore an au pair age limit doesn’t apply. Around Europe, many families often look for summer or winter nannies as well. I myself was a winter holiday nanny twice in Switzerland for a London family!
It’s important to be flexible, open-minded and proactive. Older au pairs often find success by creating a strong personal profile highlighting their experience with children maturity and motivation for cultural exchange. Include photos references and any relevant certifications like first aid or childcare training. If you’ve previously worked as a nanny a teacher or even in hospitality these transferable skills can make you stand out.
Networking is another great way to find placements. Join Facebook groups for au pairs in your destination country. Many families post there directly looking for candidates who are already local. Websites like AuPairWorld can help but may have stricter age requirements. Private placements especially when arranged with care and proper agreements can be a great alternative.
Being over 25 should not discourage you from becoming an au pair. In fact, it may lead to an even more enriching experience. You bring a level of life experience stability and self-awareness that many younger au pairs are still developing. With the right destination, careful planning and a strong profile you can still live your dream of exploring the world through cultural exchange and meaningful work.
This was a post about au pair age limit.