Host Family Requirements

Host Family Requirements (Netherlands)

To host an au pair in the Netherlands, the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) sets legal requirements for the host family, the accommodation, and the conditions of the au pair’s stay. The main requirements are that the host family has at least one child under the age of 16, meets the minimum income requirement, and provides the au pair with a suitable private bedroom.

Requirements for the Au Pair

The au pair must meet the following conditions:

• Be at least 18 years old but younger than 25.

• Stay in the Netherlands as part of a cultural exchange programme through a recognised sponsor.

• Not have previously held a Dutch residence permit as an au pair.

• Not have paid more than €34 in preparation costs for the stay in the Netherlands.

• Not have signed an agreement with a host family, intermediary, or au pair agency (in the Netherlands or abroad) that includes a financial penalty or payment obligation if the agreement is not fulfilled.

• Not have paid a security deposit to a Dutch or foreign intermediary or au pair agency.

• Not perform work that requires specialised care or professional skills.

• Live at the host family’s address and register with the local municipality at that address.

Requirements for the Host Family

The host family must meet the following conditions:

• Consist of at least two people.

• Be legally residing in the Netherlands.

• Not have previously employed the au pair, either in the Netherlands or abroad.

• Ensure the au pair works no more than 8 hours per day and 30 hours per week, with at least two full days off per week.

• Ensure the au pair’s duties are limited to light household tasks and assistance with the daily care of the children.

• Be registered in the Dutch Personal Records Database (BRP).

• Prepare and sign, together with the au pair, a weekly schedule covering all seven days of the week. The schedule must specify:

  • the number of hours per day the au pair performs light household tasks;

  • which two days per week the au pair has off;

  • who takes over the au pair’s responsibilities on those days.

• Have a combined gross monthly income (including holiday allowance) of at least 150% of the Dutch statutory minimum wage. For 2026, this means approximately:

  • €3,717 gross per month for married or cohabiting couples;

  • €2,975 gross per month for single parents.

• Ensure the au pair is not a family member of any member of the host family.

Accommodation Requirements

The host family must provide suitable accommodation for the au pair:

• A private, furnished, and heated bedroom of at least 9 m² with sufficient natural daylight.

• The bedroom must be lockable and the au pair must have her own key to ensure privacy.

• The host family must provide free room and board throughout the entire stay, including meals and drinks.