Using an Au Pair
Practical information about hosting au pairs in your home and managing the relationship. Topics include visa requirements, payment guidelines, tax obligations and helping au pairs adjust to life in the UK.
Help Your Au Pair Settle in
Help your au pair feel welcome and comfortable when they arrive with practical steps like being on time and preparing their room.
How Much Notice to Give an Au Pair
You don't legally need to give notice to an au pair, but Home Office guidelines recommend at least two weeks either way.
How Much to Pay for Extra Hours
Fair payment for au pair extra hours depends on your family's needs and work patterns.
How Much to Pay Your Au Pair
Au pairs aren't employees, so you pay them pocket money instead of wages, but fair payment matters to avoid exploitation and keep things legal.
How to Attract an Au Pair to Your Family
Make your family stand out to au pairs by filling out your application with personality, photos, and real details about your life.
Language Schools for Au Pairs
Host families need to know about language schools for au pairs, including who pays and how to find affordable English courses.
Letter of Invitation for an Au Pair
Write a formal letter to offer an au pair a position and create a binding agreement between your family and the candidate.
Paying Tax for an Au Pair
Au pairs are generally tax-exempt, but you become an employer liable for tax if you pay more than £100 per week.
Replacement Au Pairs
How to plan a smooth transition when replacing your au pair and what to do if your current one leaves unexpectedly.
Safety Concerns When Hiring an Au Pair
Reduce risks when hiring an au pair by vetting candidates carefully and using reputable agencies to keep your family safe.
Sample Letter of Invitation
Use this invitation letter template to officially offer a job to your au pair and meet UK immigration requirements.
Speculative Au Pair Letter
Help au pairs get to know your family by writing an honest letter that shows your real personality and lifestyle.
The Au Pair Hand Over
Help your au pair settle in faster with a structured handover plan that spells out routines, schedules and daily expectations from day one.
Visa Regulations for Your Au Pair
Check what visa paperwork your au pair needs before they arrive in the UK, based on which country they're from.
What Is a Live Out Au Pair?
A live out au pair finds their own accommodation and travels to your home daily, rather than living with your family.