This is a post about the differences between au pair in the US vs Europe.
Au Pair in the US vs Europe: Key Differences You Should Know
There’s a lot to consider before becoming an au pair. It’s an extraordinary experience! but I do highly recommend you prepare yourself better than I did (which was not at all). And part of it is deciding where to do it.
The first time I was an au pair I didn’t even know Europe was an option! I went to the US and it was while out there that i realised I could do the same in the old continent. Even then, I only knew of 4 countries that offered au pair visas in Europe..there are 12!
Choosing between becoming an au pair in the US or in Europe can significantly impact your experience. From work expectations to cultural differences and travel opportunities the nuances are essential to consider.
Read more: How to Become an Au Pair: Your Starting Guide
Visa Process and Requirements
When considering becoming an au pair in the US the first significant difference is the structured au pair programme regulated by the government. In the US you must enter through a government-approved agency such as Au Pair in America or AuPairCare. The programme requires a J-1 visa. It allows you to live with an American family and work legally for one year with the possibility to extend for a further six, nine or twelve months.
To qualify you must be aged between 18 and 26 years have at least 200 hours of childcare experience and hold a valid driver’s license. You’ll also require English proficiency a high school diploma and no criminal record.
In Europe au pair regulations vary significantly by country. For most countries you can apply independently without an agency apart from the Netherlands and Switzerland. Age limits differ widely generally ranging from 18 up to around 30 years old. A driver’s license isn’t necessary (for the visa! some families might ask for one) and a minimum of hours with childcare experience also not required. Although obviously it’s best for all, including you, if you do have some experience!
For more about Au Pair in the USA: How to Be an Au Pair in the USA: A Step-by-Step Guide
For more about Au Pair in Europe: How to Be an Au Pair in Europe: A Step-by-Step Guide
(But also feel free to ask me about it in the comments! I was an au pair in both)
Working Conditions and Expectations
The US au pair programme is heavily regulated resulting in standard working conditions across all states. Typically you’ll work up to 45 hours per week with no more than 10 hours in any one day.
Families must provide:
- 1.5 days off per week
- one full weekend off per month
- two weeks of paid holidays
- a stipend of around $195 per week (some states/agencies offer a higher amount)
- contribution of $500 towards your educational requirement such as language classes or other short courses
In Europe the working conditions differ greatly by country. For instance au pairs in Germany generally work around 30 hours per week and receive a stipend of approximately 280€ per month. France has a similar structure where au pairs work around 25-30 hours weekly for around 320€ per month. Scandinavian countries offer higher monthly stipends but also have a higher cost of living.
European host families typically include language classes and monthly transport passes as part of their benefits. However since regulations aren’t uniform across Europe conditions can vary significantly even within the same country. It’s vital to research individual countries carefully before committing.
For instance, we hear a lot about Denmark families asking the au pair to be more a housekeeper/cleaner than a child minder.
On this section though, I must add: it’s not all about the money. This is an exchange programme (or should be!) and you’re going to LIVE with a family, LIVE where you work. If you put everything on the scales, it’s much more important that you’re treated with respect and have time to actually enjoy your year abroad than to be paid extra and get all kinds of gadgets and presents but not have personal space, time to yourself and a welcoming home.
Make sure you and your host family are aligned before matching. Read our guide to what you should ask host families below for more tips on how to find the right one for you.
Read more: Questions You Need to Ask Your Host Family Before Matching
Cultural Experiences
Becoming an au pair in the US typically offers a more structured cultural experience due to the formal programme requirements. American host families often have clear expectations regarding your role household duties and childcare routines, especially as it’s a full-time position. The relationship is typically professional yet welcoming often treating the au pair as part of the family unit. You’ll likely experience various American holidays such as Thanksgiving or Independence Day which adds to the cultural immersion.
In Europe families often view au pairs more casually aiming for a cultural exchange rather than a formal employer-employee relationship. Depending on the country families may expect you to integrate deeply into their daily lives or give you more independence. Au pairs in Europe often appreciate the greater flexibility though expectations around your role can sometimes be less clearly defined. Cultural immersion in Europe includes local traditions holidays and sometimes language barriers especially if you choose countries with less widely spoken languages.
Both in the US and Europe you’ll find all kinds of families who may or may not treat you as part of it. If they don’t, don’t despair. As long as they respect you, your rights and your boundaries, you can still enjoy your year abroad. However, if you do want to be part of your host family, make sure to discuss this in the interview stages.
Speaking to other previous au pairs, we talk a lot about how we should find families whose personalities and lifestyles align with ours. And I do stand by this to a point! From personal experience, I think part of this cultural immersion is also about learning different ways of being, living and thinking.
An example: growing up in Brazil I wasn’t a very outdoorsy person. That’s because I wasn’t raised like that, I didn’t have anyone in my life who was into it. There was no introduction to the world of hiking and trails, only the beach. That’s not a Brazilian thing by the way, it was just my experience. In Germany and the UK, however, I fell in love with nature walks, hikes, views from the top, etc. Now I go home to my dear Teresópolis and visit all the national parks, trails and waterfalls. At the end of the day you should use your best judgement to ponder what works for you and what doesn’t.
Family Dynamics
When it comes to the kids, au pairs often notice differences shaped by cultural influences between the US and Europe. In the US, kids might have greater access to gadgets, toys and screens, reflecting the consumer-oriented aspects of American culture. This can sometimes lead to different expectations or behaviours compared to their European peers. On the other hand, European children often spend more time outdoors, benefit from early independence and may be used to a broader exposure to diverse cultures due to proximity and ease of travel between countries. Of course every family is unique and individual experiences will vary widely, but these general trends can shape an au pair’s daily interactions and routines.
Opportunities for Travel and Exploration
One of the most appealing aspects of being an au pair is the chance to travel. In the US the size of the country means domestic travel is often by plane or long road trips limiting quick weekend getaways. However agencies often organise group trips or social activities for au pairs making it easier to build a community.
Europe offers unparalleled opportunities for travel due to its compact geography and extensive public transportation. Budget airlines, trains or buses make it easy and affordable to explore neighbouring countries during weekends off. Within a year many au pairs in Europe manage to visit numerous countries effortlessly making it an ideal destination for those prioritising travel. Honestly, it’s one of my favourite things about living in Europe – you fall out of bed, you’re in a different country. You can literally wake up one morning in Germany and decide to go to Luxembourg for the day!
Cost of Living and Budgeting
In the US your living expenses are relatively predictable. Host families must provide room, board and transportation costs related to childcare duties. However the stipend while standard is modest and you might find the cost of activities or eating out relatively high especially in larger cities. There was a time when shopping in the US was more of a hobby, now things are crazy expensive! Outlets should help your au pair budget. Also, if you want to visit tourist attractions, it’s very unlikely you won’t have to pay high entry fees.
In Europe budgeting can vary widely. Countries like Iceland or Switzerland have a very high cost of living so your stipend may stretch less. Families usually cover room, board and possibly transport related to work but additional expenses can vary. When it comes to travelling, it’s a lot easier to find cheaper transport, food and accommodation. Besides, there’s a plethora of cheap or even free tourist attractions and the incredible free walking tours in most major cities. Managing your budget carefully is vital depending on the specific European country you choose.
Read more: 13 Easy Tips for Travelling Europe on a Budget
Making the Right Choice
Deciding between being an au pair in the US vs Europe ultimately depends on your personal goals. The US provides a structured regulated programme ideal for those wanting to improve their English and possibly save some money. It suits individuals looking for a distinct American cultural experience and those up for long hours with the little ones.
Europe suits independent flexible individuals seeking a wide range of cultural experiences and extensive travel opportunities. If you want to be an au pair again in a different country it’ll probably cost you the price of a bus/train/plane ticket which can be super low. Besides, countries are so close you can probably visit potential host families before matching!
Whether you choose the structured environment of the US or the flexible diverse opportunities of Europe, becoming an au pair is an insanely enriching experience! By clearly understanding these differences you can confidently select the programme that aligns best with your goals ensuring a fulfilling adventure abroad.
Now that you’ve learnt a bit about the differences between being au pair in the US vs Europe, tell me, where would you like to be an au pair? Let me know in the comments below!
This is a post about the differences between au pair in the US vs Europe.
