18 July 2026
Becoming an Au Pair in Italy: Complete Guide for Families and Young Adults
Welcoming an au pair represents a cultural exchange opportunity that allows the family to receive help in managing daily childcare while the young guest experiences living abroad, learning the Italian language and culture.
Below you'll find everything important to know before starting an au pair stay in Italy.
Agreement between family and au pair
In Italy there is no mandatory contract required by law for the au pair relationship. However, it is strongly recommended to draw up a written agreement before the young person's arrival.
The document should clearly indicate:
- duration of the stay;
- amount of pocket money;
- working hours and days;
- tasks to be performed;
- rest days;
- holidays;
- use of the car, if applicable;
- any other agreed conditions.
Speaking openly about mutual expectations before departure helps avoid misunderstandings during the stay.
Ending the stay
It can happen that living together doesn't work as expected. For this reason, it is advisable to include a notice period in the contract, generally of two weeks.
In the presence of particularly serious situations, both parties can decide to terminate the relationship with immediate effect.
What are the au pair's duties?
The main activity of an au pair consists of assisting children.
Among the most common tasks are:
- taking children to school or sports activities;
- playing with them;
- helping them with homework;
- preparing small meals or snacks;
- tidying up spaces used by children;
- taking care of their laundry.
Small household tasks related to normal family life may also be requested, such as:
- setting and clearing the table;
- emptying the dishwasher;
- vacuuming common areas;
- keeping their own room tidy.
The au pair should not perform the work of a domestic worker, cleaner, or full-time professional babysitter.
Monthly pocket money
The au pair does not receive a salary, but pocket money intended for personal expenses.
In Italy there is no amount set by law. In practice, the amount normally recognized is between 250 and 300 euros per month, plus free board and lodging.
If extraordinary services not provided for in the initial agreements are requested, it is advisable to agree on additional compensation.
Board and lodging
The host family must provide free of charge:
- a private, clean, and furnished bedroom;
- access to the bathroom;
- use of common spaces in the house;
- all daily meals.
Board and lodging must be provided even during periods when the au pair cannot perform their duties due to illness.
Hours of commitment
The daily schedule should leave the au pair sufficient time to study, socialize, and get to know the country.
As a reference, it is advisable not to exceed:
- 5 hours per day;
- 30 hours per week;
- maximum 6 days of activity per week.
Any evening hours devoted to children normally fall within the overall hours.
Free days and holidays
The au pair should be entitled to at least:
- one full day of rest per week;
- one Sunday off at least once a month.
For longer stays it is good practice to allow approximately two weeks of paid vacation every six months, agreeing on the period in advance with the family.
If it is necessary to request the au pair's presence on a holiday, it is appropriate to agree in advance and arrange for rest to be made up.
Italian language course
One of the main objectives of the au pair experience is learning the language.
For this reason the family should organize hours to allow attendance at an Italian course.
Generally:
- enrollment is the responsibility of the au pair;
- the family can help in finding the school and, if desired, contribute to the costs.
For some non-EU citizens the language course may also be necessary for obtaining a visa.
Insurance
Throughout the stay it is essential that the au pair is covered by adequate insurance.
It is advisable for the policy to include:
- health care;
- hospital admission;
- liability coverage;
- coverage for accidents;
- possible medical repatriation.
In most cases the cost of insurance is borne by the host family.
Travel expenses
Unless otherwise agreed between the parties, the round-trip journey is normally the au pair's responsibility.
Some families nevertheless choose to contribute, in whole or in part, to transport costs as a form of support.
Use of the car
If driving will be required during the stay, it is important to clarify from the start:
- whether the license held is valid in Italy;
- who bears any fuel costs;
- who is responsible in case of fines;
- what insurance coverage is provided.
All these aspects should be included in the written agreement.
How much does it cost to host an au pair?
The overall cost depends on the family's habits and the length of the stay.
Roughly you should consider:
ItemEstimated costPocket money | 250–300 € per month
Board and lodging | approximately 50–100 € per week
Insurance | approximately 25–50 € per month
Possible contribution to language course | optional
Overall, hosting an au pair generally entails a starting expense of approximately 450 euros per month, varying based on family consumption and any additional contributions.
Tax identification number
The tax identification number is often necessary to carry out some administrative procedures in Italy, such as:
- opening a bank account;
- registering with the National Health Service, where applicable;
- entering into certain contracts.
To obtain it you need to present a valid identity document and, for non-EU citizens, documentation relating to your stay in Italy.
Tips for a peaceful stay
The success of the experience depends mainly on communication between family and au pair.
Before arrival it is advisable to clearly agree on:
- working hours and days;
- house rules;
- use of car, internet, and common spaces;
- management of holidays;
- any evening outings;
- eating habits;
- mutual expectations.
Open dialogue and a clear agreement from the start allow you to build a relationship of trust and make the stay positive for both parties.