You avoid several major costs. There are no IND agency fees (around €2000) and no visa costs (around €460).

Since there is no visa or IND process required, an au pair can often start within about 2 weeks.

The process is much simpler for EU/Schengen au pairs. You don’t need to apply for a visa or go through the IND, which means no lengthy procedures, less paperwork, and lower costs.

In contrast, hiring a non-EU au pair involves a visa application and IND approval, which brings additional costs such as agency fees, visa fees, and administrative expenses

Au pairs in the Netherlands receive at least €340 per month in pocket money (set by the IND). As a host family you also provide room and board, Dutch health insurance, and sometimes contribute to transport or a language course. In addition, families pay the agency service fee and, for first-time hosts, the mandatory IND sponsorship fee.

An au pair supports with light childcare (school runs, babysitting, playing, helping with homework) and simple household tasks (setting the table, preparing meals, tidying children’s things). They are not allowed to do heavy cleaning, gardening, or full-time childcare.

By law, an au pair may help a maximum of 30 hours per week, spread over 5 days and no more than 8 hours per day. They must have at least 2 full days off per week. During a 12-month stay, they are entitled to at least 2 weeks of paid holiday.

Yes. The standard au pair agreement is required in the Netherlands and filed with the IND. It defines hours, tasks, pocket money, holidays, and house rules. This ensures clarity for both family and au pair and is part of the official process.

• Au pairs must be 18–25 years old.
• The stay lasts a maximum of 12 months and cannot be extended.
• Non-EU au pairs need a residence permit. The host family must work with a recognised au pair agency (IND sponsor), which handles the application.
• The au pair must live with the family and have their own private bedroom.
• Au pairs from the EU do not need a visa, read more about the process here.

In the Netherlands, families must use a recognised au pair agency. Agencies guide you through the visa process, legal rules, and help set clear agreements. This way, everything is IND-compliant and worry-free.

Open communication usually helps solve issues quickly. If not, your agency will support with mediation or a rematch. By law, any changes must be reported to the IND.

An au pair is seen as a temporary family member. They join in meals, outings, and traditions. The Dutch au pair program is all about cultural exchange: your family experiences another culture, while the au pair learns Dutch language and lifestyle.