The agreement between the au pair and the host family is subject to a contract. The contract defines the rights and duties of the au pair and the host family. The contract will be submitted to the labor market authorities with the relevant documentation.

The host family has the obligation to insure the au pair to the Swiss health insurance system and to bear half the costs .

Recommendation:

• Private & professional liability

With such an all-inclusive liability for the au pair it is clear who pays for the damage in case of an accident.

The following documents have to be handed to the relevant migration authorities:

• mediation request from the SECO authorized agencies
• copy of the work contract
• at least one ID picture
• copy of the passport
• proof of residence (location contract for instance)
• proof of successful enrollment into a language course
• proof of subscription to a health insurance 

Important:

1. The start of the au pair's activity has to be effective before the au pair has reached the age of 25.
2. Additional or Canton specific documents can be requested. 

Eventually, the additional following documents can be required in order to obtain the work or residence permit are (depending on the Canton):

• the weekly schedule of the au pair
• translation of the documents in (one of) the language of the canton
• a resume
• criminal records
• health certificate

It is the au pair's responsibility to organize the trip taking into consideration the needs of the host family regarding dates.

Even when everything is clear and all questions are asked, it's good to stay in touch until the journey starts - it's important that also the children get to know that a new au pair is coming and communicating from time to time through Skype is a good way to get used to each other.

What to take with you as au pair? In our community you can find tips from other au pairs!

Please note: Border authorities may examine whether the prerequisites for entry continue to apply. This examination is international practice. The au pair might be refused entry even though (s)he is in the possession of a valid visa, if the prerequisites for entry no longer apply.

Therefore the au pair should carry with him/her documents giving evidence to the purpose of the stay - in particular proof of sufficient funds (au pair contract) and health insurance.

Attention:

1. The au pair is only allowed to enter Switzerland after obtention of the work permit and the short-term residence.
2. Within a week, the au pair must register to the relevant authorities.

(Example from the Schwyz Canton)

The obtention of the work permit is a mandatory condition to enter Switzerland.

In principle, any adult person can open an account in Switzerland.

An account can be opened via a written demand or through an appointment.

The required documents to open an account are:

• passport
• proof of origin of funds (copy of the work contract or payslips)
• proof of residency (will be verified through postal exchange)

For more details, please refer to the Swiss Bankers Association FAQ.

An au pair can drive with his valid national driving licence for up to 12 months (the driver should be at least 18).

The au pair should carry a written confirmation when driving the car of the host family. 

More details on the website of the association of motor vehicles (in French of German).

Persons engaged in domestic work who receive a wage, are entitled to family allowances provided they meet the legal requirements.

As the au pair from a third country is placed through a SECO-licensed placement agency, a change of family has to be brought up with the agency.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that the short-stay permit L is granted only if there is work contract with a host family. 

Also in the case of changing host family, it is important to discuss the different costs occurring such as the costs of the language classes, of the trip, etc.

According to the individual insurance conditions, the au pair may have to announce a change of address to the insurance providers, to ensure that the policies are being sustained.

In accordance with the immigration rules it is important for the au pair to clarify / verify with the competent authorities

• when (within which period) and
• how

such a "re-registration" has to be made.

Before going back home the au pair has to report with the competent cantonal tax administration.

With the following documents 

• Tax deregistration certificate
• passport
• residence card

the au pair can de-register at the relevant Security Department. 

(example: canton Basel-city)