Despite being a relatively small country, Switzerland Switzerland boasts a fascinating cultural diversity. The majority of people living there are bilingual and multilingual, due to the coexistence of four different official languages within this charming country. This makes it the perfect location for cultural exchange. Many Au Pairs are fascinated by the Swiss snow-capped mountains, charming villages and vibrant cities like Zurich or Geneva. Therefore, why not encourage your children to be in contact with even more languages and cultures?

Au pairing in Switzerland is a one-in-a lifetime type of experience. Whether you’re a future au pair excited to experience Swiss culture, or a host family looking for flexible childcare and cultural exchange, this guide has everything you need.

Au Pair Requirements: No Fondue Without the Basics 🧀

Before you start planning your stay or preparing a guest room, there are some essential requirements for au pairs and host families in Switzerland.

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

• Be 18–30 years old (18-25 for non-EU Au Pairs!)
  
• Be unmarried and have no children
  
• Have basic knowledge of one of Switzerland’s national languages (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) or English, so you can communicate effectively
  
• Have enough funds to cover your travel costs and the requirements of the au pair stay
  
• Be ready to live with a Swiss host family for typically 12 months
  
• Be willing to help with childcare and light household tasks
  
• Be of non-Swiss nationality
  

If you meet all of the above, Switzerland is ready to welcome you. If not, don’t worry, there are plenty of other countries where you can enjoy an au pair adventure!

Why Choose Switzerland?

Living with a Swiss host family is more than helping with childcare; it is a full cultural immersion. You can expect to assist with children and light household tasks, participate in family meals and outings, and take part in Swiss traditions. There are opportunities to improve your German, French, Italian, or English skills. During your free time, you can explore cities, lakes, mountains, and scenic villages.

Switzerland offers:

🇨🇭 Stunning landscapes: mountains, lakes, and charming cities

🍫 Delicious cuisine, from chocolate to fondue and regional specialties

🎓 Language-learning opportunities in German, French, Italian, or English

🏞️ Outdoor adventures all year round: Skiing, hiking, and lake activities

💛 Cultural exchange that benefits both your family and the au pair

It’s the perfect mix of adventure, learning, and everyday life in one of Europe’s most picturesque countries. You can check the list of responsibilities and house rules here!

Host Family Requirements

Thinking of welcoming an au pair into your Swiss home? Here’s what you need to know:

• Have at least one child under 18 living in your household
  
• Provide your au pair with a private room
  
• Include your au pair in childcare and light household duties
  
• Speak one of the national languages (German, French, Italian, or Romansh) or English daily in the household
  
• Be of different nationality than your au pair
  
• Commit to hosting your au pair for the full duration of the stay
  

If you tick all the boxes, fantastic! You’re ready to start your search for the perfect au pair. If your household doesn’t meet the requirements, unfortunately, you cannot host an au pair, but there are other ways to explore cultural exchange opportunities.

Visa and Paperwork

EU / EFTA Citizens

Good news! If you’re from the EU, EEA you don’t need a visa to au pair in Switzerland!

You’ll simply:

• Apply for a short-residence (L) permit
• Travel to Switzerland with your ID/ passport
• Register with your local canthon authorities once you arrive
• Sign an au pair placement agreement with your host family

NON EU Citizens

To be an Au Pair in Switzerlandi f you are not from EU/EFTA, you have to:

• Get a visa (usually a Type D long-stay visa) before arriving in Switzerland.
• Apply for a residence permit after your arrival
• Be in the age limit 18-25 years old (it is stricter for non-EU/EFTA Au Pairs)

Ready to Start Your Adventure? 🇨🇭

Whether you’re an au pair eager to explore Switzerland or a host family excited to welcome someone from abroad, Switzerland offers a rich and unforgettable experience.

At Nina.care, we help you find your perfect match and make the au pair process smooth, safe, and fun. Ready to say Grüezi to your next adventure? Let’s make it happen!