Au-Pair in Belgium

Belgium has regulated au-pair placements regionally since 2015 — and the differences are significant. In Flanders and Brussels the minimum is €450 per month and an age range of 18 to under 26; in Wallonia the minimum is €750 for non‑EEA citizens and an age range of 18 to 30.

What applies everywhere

At most four hours per day and 20 hours per week, including babysitting — this is the lowest weekly limit in Western Europe. At least one full day off per week. The allowance is paid by bank transfer, also during periods without work.

The language course is a condition for the permit: enrollment at an accredited school in a regional language — Dutch in Flanders, French or Dutch in Brussels, French or German in Wallonia — with attendance certificates each quarter.

What the host family must provide

At least one child under 13 at the start, proof of childcare for younger children (under six in Flanders, under five in Brussels and Wallonia), a private room and free access to the apartment. Brussels and Wallonia require criminal records for all household members over 18.

Insurance obligations are extensive: health insurance for Belgian risks, supplemental insurance for medical, pharmacy and hospital costs, and repatriation insurance in case of illness or accident — all at the family’s expense.

Entry

EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a work permit. For all others the host family applies to the regional authority for a work permit, valid for a maximum of one year with exactly one extension within that year; a change of host family is allowed once. Afterwards the D visa is obtained through the federal immigration office.