Can an Au Pair Have a Second Job? Rules and Options

Can I work while being an au pair?

Being an au pair is an opportunity to live abroad, learn a language, and discover a new culture while staying with a host family. In return, the au pair looks after the children and carries out agreed household tasks, typically receiving board, lodging, and a contribution for personal expenses. Source: European Youth Portal

But what if you want to earn a bit more? Can you find a second job during your au pair stay?

The answer depends on the country where you are, your citizenship, and the visa or residence permit you may need. Having free time does not automatically mean you are allowed to do another paid activity.

What jobs can you consider?

If the rules of your host country allow it, some activities you might consider are:

1. Tutoring and language lessons

If you are fluent in Italian or another language, you could offer private lessons, conversation practice, or homework help. It is important to check whether you can carry out these activities for payment and whether you must meet tax or administrative obligations.

2. Occasional babysitting

Babysitting for other families may seem like a natural choice, especially if you already have experience with children. However, you should not assume it is allowed: in some countries, the au pair programme limits or prohibits any additional work.

3. Part-time employment

A job in a bar, shop, or restaurant could be an option only if your migration status and local rules allow a second job. Before applying, check the conditions that apply to your situation.

4. Remote online activities

You could consider translation, virtual assistance, content creation, or other digital activities. Online work may also be subject to restrictions: working via the Internet does not automatically exempt you from the rules of the country where you are staying.

In which countries is it possible to have a second job?

The rules are not the same everywhere. Here are some examples that show why it is important to check your specific situation.

• France: the official French public service website specifies that those staying with the status of young au pair are not authorised to carry out any work activity in addition to the duties provided for with the host family.
• Austria: for au pairs who are citizens of third countries, access to the ordinary labour market is limited by the specific rules applicable to au pair residence.
• Other countries: different conditions may apply based on citizenship, visa, and national law.

Official sources: Service Public – France and Austrian Government Portal.

These examples are not a complete list: before taking a job, consult the relevant authorities in the country you are going to.

What if I am an Italian citizen and I work as an au pair in Europe?

European citizenship can facilitate access to work in another EU country, but you should not confuse the general right to work with the conditions of a specific au pair programme.

You need to check the national law, any administrative requirements, and the conditions of the programme or agency through which you organised your stay. If you are moving outside the European Union, your visa may impose specific restrictions.

How to organise yourself to find a second job

If you want to increase your income during your au pair experience, proceed with care:

1. Verify your right to work. Check the official sources of the country and review the conditions of your visa or permit.

2. Read the au pair agreement. Check your commitments with the family, working hours, and any conditions relating to other activities.

3. Calculate your available time. Consider rest, language courses, travel, and agreed family commitments.

4. Inform yourself about tax obligations. A paid activity may require compliance even when it is occasional or carried out online.

5. Do not start before you have clarified any doubts. Unauthorised work could cause problems with your stay or the programme.

Is it worth having a second job during au pair?

It can be interesting if you want to save money, gain experience, or develop new skills. However, you should not choose a family or country counting on additional income that you may not be authorised to receive.

Before you leave, it is useful to estimate your monthly budget taking into account pocket money, personal expenses, transport, and any courses. This way you can understand whether the experience is sustainable even without a second job.

Frequently asked questions

Can I do babysitting for another family in my free time?

Not necessarily. You must verify whether local law and the conditions of your stay allow a second job, even when it comes to occasional babysitting.

Can I work online while being an au pair?

It depends on your situation. Remote work may also be subject to the work and residence rules of your host country.

Do I need to ask permission from the host family?

It is important to discuss it with the family to arrange schedules and maintain a transparent relationship. However, the family's consent does not replace any authorisation that may be required by law.

Where can I check the rules?

You can consult the official website of immigration or labour in your destination country, the relevant embassy, and the conditions of any au pair programme you are part of.

Conclusion

Finding a second job while working as an au pair may seem like a good way to increase your income, but it is not an automatic right and is not permitted in all countries. Before looking for a job, check the rules that apply to your citizenship and status.

The most important advice is to choose a destination and family based on clear conditions, without relying on a second income until you have confirmed you can obtain it legally.