Setting Up

Practical information about establishing and running an au pair agency in the UK. Articles cover legal requirements, recruitment, interviewing and operational procedures.

Accession Cards for Au Pairs

Au pairs from Bulgaria and Romania need an Accession Card to work legally in the UK under the scheme.

Advertising and Market Research

Figure out where to advertise your au pair agency by researching your target customers and matching them to the right publications and channels.

Assess Potential Demand for Your Business

Check if your au pair business idea will actually work by researching your local market and asking yourself the hard questions first.

Do I Have to Use an Au Pair Agency?

You have options for finding an au pair beyond agencies, and here's how to weigh them up for your family.

Guidelines Au Pair Agencies Should Follow

UK au pair agencies must follow employment regulations set by BERR, including rules on fees and conduct standards.

Holiday Entitlement for Au Pairs

Au pairs get paid time off like other workers, typically one week per six months or four weeks yearly, though you should agree on dates before they arrive.

How Does an Au Pair Agency Operate?

Au pair agencies work as either introduction services or online matching platforms, with different regulations and fee structures for each.

How Does an Internet Au Pair Agency Operate?

Internet au pair agencies operate online without physical offices, using websites to connect families and caregivers instead of in-person meetings.

How to Interview an Au Pair

A good au pair interview covers language ability, personality, background and goals to find the right match for your family's needs.

How to Recruit the Right People

Hiring the right staff for your au pair agency means looking for relevant experience, language skills, and reliability rather than just calling a friend.

Setting Up Business

Handle the practical steps to launch your au pair agency, from registration and branding to finding staff and building your client base.

Skills Needed to Run Your Business

Running an au pair business means being good with people, understanding childcare, and matching personalities to make placements work.

Where to Look for an Au Pair Agency

Good au pair agencies follow Home Office guidelines and ethical codes, so checking membership with IAPA or IAPAA is a solid starting point before hiring.