Au-pair in France

France offers one of the best‑regulated au‑pair programmes in Europe. There are two statuses: “Jeune au pair” for au‑pairs from outside the EU and “Stagiaire aide familial” for au‑pairs from the EU. Both are legally regulated (source: service‑public.fr, as of June 2026). For anyone who wants to learn French, France is an excellent choice with its rich culture, superb cuisine and unique lifestyle.

The French au‑pair programme

The au‑pair programme in France is well structured and provides clear guidelines:

• Jeune au pair (non‑EU): 18 to 30 years, at least €320 pocket money per month, maximum 25 hours per week, long‑stay visa
• Stagiaire aide familial (EU): 17 to 30 years, maximum 5 hours per day, mandatory French course
• Written contract (Convention) before arrival, for non‑EU au‑pairs part of the visa application
• The host family registers the au‑pair with the Urssaf within 8 days and pays the social contributions

Requirements

• Age: 18 to 30 years (Jeune au pair), 17 to 30 years (Stagiaire aide familial from the EU)
• Language skills: Basic French recommended (A1‑A2)
• Child‑care experience: Verifiable experience desirable
• Education: Completed school education
• Health: Medical certificate
• Visa: EU citizens do not need a visa. Non‑EU citizens apply for a long‑stay visa (Visa de Long Séjour)

Pocket money and benefits

• Pocket money: Minimum €320 per month
• Accommodation: Private room with the host family
• Meals: Full board
• Language course: Attendance at a French course is mandatory and supported by the host family
• Transport: Monthly public‑transport pass is often provided
• Insurance: The au‑pair is covered by French social security through registration with the Urssaf; contributions are paid by the host family
• Room: Private room of at least 9 m² with a window

Working hours

• Maximum 25 hours per week
• 5 hours per day
• At least one full day off per week
• At least one Sunday off per month
• Tasks: child‑care, school runs, play and language practice — an au‑pair is not a household helper

Duration

• 3 months to 1 year
• Extension possible, up to a maximum of 2 years in total
• Start often in September (beginning of the school year)

Why France?

France offers a unique combination of culture, gastronomy and way of life. From Paris to Provence to the Côte d’Azur there is something for every taste. French is also one of the world’s major languages and opens professional doors in many countries.

Create your profile on AuPairMatch and discover France as an au‑pair.