Country guide
Au pair in the UK: work rights and guide
UK arrangements can depend on immigration status, work rights, pay, duties, and whether someone counts as an employee or worker. Check official GOV.UK guidance before making plans.
What to confirm early
- Confirm the au pair's right to live and work in the UK before any arrangement starts.
- Clarify whether the arrangement is casual cultural exchange or employment with minimum wage and other obligations.
- Agree duties, hours, pocket money or pay, accommodation, meals, holidays, transport, and household rules in writing.
- Be especially careful with childcare duties, overnight responsibility, and any paid work outside the family.
Questions for a first call
- What visa or immigration status allows the arrangement?
- How many hours are expected each week?
- What private room and living arrangements are provided?
- How will expenses, pay, and time off be handled?
Official source
Read the official GOV.UK page on au pairs and employment law: gov.uk/au-pairs-employment-law/au-pairs.
Browse current host families in the UK or au pair profiles. Before deciding, use the au pair interview guide and review the au pair contract checklist.