Au-Pair in Spain

Spain at a glance

European Au Pair Agreement

For au pairs

Age
17–30 years
Pocket money
Agreed between the two sides
customary as pocket money, no statutory rate
Working hours
max. 5 h/day
1 days off/week
Length of stay
up to 24 months

For host families

Language course
Not regulated
Insurance
Host family pays part
Contract
Written contract required
Visa
EU/EEA: nothing needed
Non-EU: visa before entry
See au pairs for SpainSee families in Spain

We compiled this information to the best of our knowledge from the official sources listed below, each with the date we checked it. Laws and rates change, and an error can never be ruled out entirely — we do not re-check the sources daily. Please do not rely on this alone: verify with the competent authority before you decide. This is not legal advice.

Sources: BOE, Acuerdo Europeo sobre la Colocación Au Pair · Real Decreto 1155/2024 (Reglamento de Extranjería) · checked 2026-09-11

Spain is an increasingly popular au-pair destination. The sunny climate, warm culture, and opportunity to learn Spanish make it an attractive choice. Although Spain does not have a formal au-pair program, au-pair stays are common and work well on the basis of private agreements.

No Formal Program

Unlike Germany or France, Spain has no government-regulated au-pair program. Conditions are agreed directly between the au-pair and host family. A written contract is therefore especially important.

Requirements

  • Age: 18 to 30 years (flexible limits, since there is no formal program)
  • Language skills: Basic Spanish is helpful but not mandatory
  • Childcare experience: Desirable
  • Visa: EU citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens can apply for a student visa (with enrollment at a language school)

Pocket Money and Benefits

  • Pocket money: EUR 200-300 per month (depending on region and hours)
  • Accommodation: Private room with the host family
  • Meals: Full board
  • Language course: Not legally required, but many families support attending a Spanish course

Working Hours

  • Typically 25-30 hours per week
  • Duties: Childcare, school runs, practicing English or other languages with children
  • At least 1 day off per week
  • Possibly 1-2 evenings of babysitting per week

Duration

  • Typically 6 to 12 months
  • Summer au-pairs: 2-3 months (June to September, especially popular)
  • Starting in September (school year beginning) is ideal for longer stays

Popular Regions

The most popular regions for au-pairs in Spain include:

  • Madrid: Capital city with extensive cultural offerings and many host families
  • Barcelona: Cosmopolitan seaside city, but note: Catalan is also spoken here
  • Valencia: Pleasant climate, affordable, friendly atmosphere
  • Andalusia: Seville, Malaga, Granada — authentic Spain with the best weather

Why Spain?

Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world. An au-pair stay in Spain is a fantastic way to learn the language, enjoy the Mediterranean way of life, and create lifelong memories.

Create your profile on AuPairMatch and find your host family in Spain.