How to become an au pair in Switzerland?
Switzerland has 2 different programs for the different au pair citizenships.
Choose here which programs you want to see and compare.
step by step to get to Switzerland
Au pair World |
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find family / au pair, sign contract |
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. |
insurance |
The host family has the obligation to insure the au pair to the Swiss health insurance system and to bear half the costs . Recommendation:
With such an all-inclusive liability for the au pair it is clear who pays for the damage in case of an accident. |
visa |
The following documents have to be handed to the relevant migration authorities:
Important:
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further documents |
Eventually, the additional following documents can be required in order to obtain the work or residence permit are (depending on the Canton):
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organize trip |
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. |
start journey |
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. |
step by step once you're in Switzerland
Au pair World |
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residence registration |
Attention:
(Example from the Schwyz Canton) |
work permit |
The obtention of the work permit is a mandatory condition to enter Switzerland. |
bank account |
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:
For more details, please refer to the Swiss Bankers Association FAQ. |
driving a car |
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). |
social welfare system |
Persons engaged in domestic work who receive a wage, are entitled to family allowances provided they meet the legal requirements. |
step by step to change family in Switzerland
Au pair World |
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find new family |
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. |
insurance |
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. |
residence registration |
In accordance with the immigration rules it is important for the au pair to clarify / verify with the competent authorities
such a "re-registration" has to be made. |
step by step to leave Switzerland
Au pair World |
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de-register residence |
Before going back home the au pair has to report with the competent cantonal tax administration. With the following documents
the au pair can de-register at the relevant Security Department. (example: canton Basel-city) |

Hi, my name is Davide Contu
and I’m responsible for this country information
I have thoroughly researched the information on this page, still I can’t give a guarantee that everything is correct and up-to-date.
If you should find any mistakes, please send me a message.
If you have any questions regarding the information on this page, you can ask them in the community.

Hi, my name is Julien Baldini
and I’m responsible for this country information
I have thoroughly researched the information on this page, still I can’t give a guarantee that everything is correct and up-to-date.
If you should find any mistakes, please send me a message.
If you have any questions regarding the information on this page, you can ask them in the community.