La Bella Italia, the country of amazing food and home of one of the oldest and most fascinating cultures in the world. Yes, pizza and pasta would be already a good enough reason to wanting to live there, but there is also so much more: we are talking about the country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the entire world!

It is no surprise that Italians take huge pride in their artistic and gastronomic excellence. Then, why not sharing your culture, language with somebody coming from a different culture, while they help you with flexible childcare? For many Au Pairs, a cultural exchange in Italy would be a dream coming true, and you can help them realise it!

Whether you’re a future au pair eager to experience Italian culture firsthand or a host family looking for a little international flair at home, this guide has everything you need. However, before you start packing your suitcase or preparing a cosy guest room, there are a few essential rules for au pairs and host families in Italy.

Au Pair Requirements: No Pasta Without the Basics 🍝

Thinking about becoming an au pair in Italy? Here’s what you need to qualify:

• Be 18–30 years old
  
  • (If you’re an EU citizen, you can start at 17!)
    
• Be of non-Italian nationality
  
• Be unmarried and have no children
  
• Be able to afford the trip to Italy
  
• Be excited to live with a host family, help with childcare, and immerse yourself in Italian culture and language
  

If you meet all these requirements, perfetto! You’re ready to start your Italian au pair adventure. If not, don’t worry. There are plenty of other countries where you can enjoy an au pair experience.

Host Families Requirements:

Want to welcome an au pair into your Italian home? Your household should be able to:

• Have at least one child under 18 living in your home
  
• Provide your au pair with a private room
  
• Involve your au pair in childcare and light household duties
  
• Speak Italian in your daily family life
  
• Support your au pair in attending a language course
  
• Have a different nationality from your au pair
  

If you tick all the boxes, fantastic! You’re ready to start looking for your perfect match. If you don’t meet these requirements, unfortunately, you cannot host an au pair in Italy, but other cultural exchange options may still be available.

Important: remember to check that your potential Au Pair also fulfils all requirements to come to Italy.

Why Choose Italy and What to Expect:

Life as an au pair in Italy is more than helping with childcare; it is a full cultural immersion. Living with a host family allows you to assist with children and light household tasks, participate in family meals, local traditions, and outings, and take advantage of opportunities to learn Italian and improve your language skills. You will also have free time to explore Italy’s cities, countryside, and coastline. From morning routines to weekend trips to historic towns or seaside villages, every day is an adventure filled with Italian culture, food, and sunshine.

Italy offers:

🇮🇹 Rich culture, history, and iconic landmarks

🍝 World-famous cuisine and local culinary experiences

👨‍👩‍👧 The chance to become part of a welcoming Italian family

🎓 Opportunities to learn Italian or improve English

🌞 A vibrant, sun-soaked lifestyle with endless outdoor activities

💛 Cultural exchange that enriches both your life and your host family’s

You can check the list of responsibilities and house rules here!

VISA and Paperwork

EU/EFTA Au Pairs

Good news! If you are from an EU/EFTA country, you do not need a VISA to be an Au Pair in Italy. You’ll just:

• Travel to Italy with your ID/Passport
• Submit a declaration of your living situation to the local police station
• Register at the town hall
• Get health insurance (you can get your EHIC card!)

NON EU/EFTA Au Pairs:

Although Italy does not have a specific Au Pair VISA, NON-EU citizens who want to be an Au Pair in Italy may be able to enter with a Student Visa. You have to:

• Apply for a Student Visa with a recognised language school in Italy
• Get a residence permit at your town/city hall once you arrive
• Have proof of health insurance

Please check with your local Italian embassy or consulate to confirm that no additional paperwork is required. The application won’t be accepted until all necessary documents are received.

Ready to Start Your Italian Adventure? 🇮🇹

Whether you’re an au pair dreaming of exploring Italy or a host family excited to welcome someone from abroad, Italy offers a rich, unforgettable experience. At Nina.Care, we help you find your perfect match and make the au pair process simple, safe, and fun. Let’s make it happen!