AU PAIR SENTER

The purpose of the au pair-scheme is cultural exchange. Its origin can be traced back to the European au pair-agreement of 1969 in which the movement of adventurous young Europeans crossing borders was regulated. An au pair stays in the home of a host family as part of the family, while primarily learning about the Norwegian ways, language and society, and exchanges cultural knowledge with friends and family. It is important that both au pair and host family recognizes the purpose of the program as cultural exchange. An au pair is not a housemaid nor a nanny. However, you are expected to do some light housework and for this your recieve pay/pocket money.

UDI writes, «As an au pair, you can improve your language skills and learn about Norwegian society by living with a Norwegian family. In return, you will provide services such as light housework and/or child care for the host family.» We recommend you to click on the link and read thouroughly the UDI circular on the au pair-program.

An au pair and the host family must agree on the terms of the au pair-stay in the standardized contract provided by UDI. You can find the contract here. In any case, you cannot work more than 5 hours per day, with a maximum of 30 hours per week. Contact Caritas au pair-senter if you need help with your contract or have other questions.