Frequently Asked questions Au Pairs
Frequently Asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the au pair programme at Babs Au Pair Agency.
Are you a host family looking for an au pair, or are you interested in becoming an au pair abroad? Browse our frequently asked questions below. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We are happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions for Host Families
When is the best time to welcome an au pair?
You can welcome an au pair at any time of the year. Many host families prefer the au pair to arrive around the start of the new school year. However, based on our experience, it is often beneficial for an au pair to arrive about one month before school starts. This gives the children enough time to get to know and adjust to their new “big sister.”
If you do not have school-aged children, you are, of course, free to choose another arrival period. Outside the summer months, there is generally a larger selection of available au pairs.
How long does the matching process take?
On average, the matching process takes approximately 31 days. The exact timeframe depends on the availability of suitable candidates and your personal preferences.
The process includes:
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Initial consultation and intake interview
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Creating your family profile
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Searching for suitable candidates
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Selection and screening by Babs Au Pair Agency and our accredited partner organisations
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Online interviews
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Placement preparation
Can an au pair join us on holiday?
Yes. An au pair may accompany the host family on holiday during her stay in the Netherlands or Belgium.
Our au pairs come from EU countries and can travel freely within the European Union. If you are travelling outside the EU, please contact us in advance so we can advise you about any additional travel documents that may be required.
Who pays the travel expenses?
Travel costs are the responsibility of the host family.
In many cases, the au pair purchases her own flight or bus ticket. Upon arrival, the host family reimburses these expenses. We recommend making clear arrangements about this in advance.
Travel costs generally start from approximately €80, depending on the destination and travel period.
How much pocket money does an au pair receive?
An au pair does not receive a salary but monthly pocket money, as established under the European Agreement on Au Pair Placement.
The Netherlands
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Au pair from an EU country: €340 per month
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Au pair from a non-EU country: €300 per month
Belgium
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€450–€550 per month, depending on the applicable regulations.
In the Netherlands, pocket money is exempt from taxation under certain conditions.
What other costs should we expect?
In addition to the monthly pocket money, you should budget for:
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Au pair insurance: is between €340 and €550 per year
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Dutch language course (Netherlands): up to €380 per year
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Language course (Belgium): from €380 per year
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SIM card or mobile phone: approximately €10
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Flight or bus ticket from €80
What is the average monthly cost of an au pair?
An au pair is often more affordable than regular childcare.
The Netherlands
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Au Pair: from approximately €550 per month
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Au Pair Plus: from approximately €650 per month
Belgium
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Au Pair: approximately €755 per month
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Au Pair Plus: approximately €855 per month
These amounts include pocket money, insurance, travel expenses and language courses, but exclude accommodation, meals and the agency fee.
In Belgium, a one-time work permit application fee of approximately €250 also applies for not EU Au pair.
What are the payment terms?
The agency fee is invoiced in two instalments:
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75% upon acceptance of the candidate
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25% within eight days after the au pair’s arrival
Invoices must be paid within eight days of the invoice date.
What guarantee does Babs Au Pair Agency provide?
If a placement is unexpectedly unsuccessful and the au pair leaves earlier than planned, we will search for a suitable replacement au pair free of charge. This gives you another opportunity for a successful match.
May an au pair babysit in the evenings?
Yes. An au pair may babysit up to two or three evenings per week.
These hours are included within the legal maximum of 30 working hours per week. An au pair may not work on her designated days off.
Insurance
Is Dutch basic health insurance mandatory?
Yes. Every au pair staying in the Netherlands is legally required to obtain Dutch basic health insurance.
Is additional au pair insurance mandatory?
No. Although it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Basic health insurance does not cover all risks that may arise during an au pair’s stay.
Can the insurance be cancelled during the stay?
Yes. The insurance can be cancelled on a monthly basis.
If the au pair leaves early and no replacement arrives, the remaining premium will be refunded.
Can a new au pair take over the insurance?
Yes. If a replacement au pair arrives, the existing insurance policy can be transferred, meaning no new insurance needs to be arranged.
Can the insurance be extended?
Yes. If the au pair extends her stay, the insurance can easily be renewed.
Frequently Asked Questions for Au Pairs
How long does it take before I am placed?
The placement process varies depending on the country and the season. On average, it takes anywhere from several weeks to several months to find a suitable host family.
Do I need a visa?
If you are an EU citizen moving to another EU country, you generally do not need a visa. Different rules may apply for destinations outside the European Union.
Do I need childcare experience?
Yes. Experience with children is important. This may include babysitting, volunteer work, internships or caring for younger siblings or relatives.
What are the agency fees?
For our personal guidance and placement services, we charge a one-time fee of €150.
Can I choose my own host family?
Yes. We only introduce you to host families that match your wishes, experience and personality. The placement only becomes final once both you and the host family are enthusiastic about the match.
Who is the insurance intended for?
The insurance is suitable for both EU and non-EU au pairs who are staying temporarily in the Netherlands.
Ready for your adventure?
Would you like to become an au pair abroad, or are you a host family looking for a reliable au pair?
Register without obligation or contact Babs Au Pair Agency today. We provide personal guidance throughout the entire process and ensure a match that is the perfect fit for both you and your family.