Au-Pair in Switzerland

Switzerland regulates au-pair arrangements on two levels: the federal government sets the age, maximum duration, language course, and insurance — the pocket money and working hours are determined by the cantons. Therefore, there is no nationwide amount, but rather cantonal guidelines.

The Federal Rules

For non‑EU citizens the rules are: 18 to 25 years old, a maximum of twelve months, non‑extendable and only once in a lifetime. Placement must be done exclusively through an agency recognized by the cantonal employment office and SECO — foreign agencies are excluded. For EU and EFTA citizens the framework is broader: 17 to 30 years old, up to 24 months in total, and no requirement to go through an agency.

Two obligations of the host family are stated in federal law and are unusually explicit: a language course of at least 120 hours in the national language, organized before arrival and paid for by the family, and at least half of the health‑insurance premium.

What the Cantons Regulate

Working hours, pocket money and vacation are set at the cantonal level — there is no nationwide hourly limit. As a guideline, Zurich and Basel‑Stadt allow a maximum of 30 weekly hours and one full day off per week; Basel‑Stadt additionally specifies five hours per day, four weeks of vacation and a net salary of at least 700 CHF. One parent must be present for at least half of the working time.

Important for planning: the canton of Zurich is currently not allocating any au‑pair quota for third‑country nationals. Where you want to go therefore decides whether it is possible at all.

What Is Not Allowed

Demanding tasks are excluded — genuine childcare, language or tutoring work are not part of the au‑pair relationship. Family reunification is not permitted.