Auost FAQ - Your Complete Au Pair & Host Family Resource Guide

Looking to host an au pair or become one? You’re in the right place.

Auost FAQ & Resource Center is your go-to guide for everything you need to know about au pair programs in Europe and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to find your perfect match, this page gives you clear answers, expert advice, and step-by-step guidance — all in one place.

Our FAQ covers everything you need to know about the au pair experience:

  • ✅ Visa and country requirements
  • ✅ Pocket money, costs, and contracts
  • ✅ Matching process and compatibility quiz
  • ✅ Onboarding, daily routines, and cultural life
  • ✅ Safety, insurance, and legal information

Use this page to explore the most common questions about au pair programs in Germany, UK, Netherlands, USA, and across Europe — and learn how Auost helps you every step of the way.

FAQ

Although certain placements can be difficult, numerous au pairs consider this experience to be among the most fulfilling years of their lives. Even those who encountered challenges frequently report that they developed resilience, independence, and essential life skills. The primary factor that distinguishes these experiences is typically the quality of the match between the au pair and the host family.

Don't ignore their feedback. Be sure to ask follow-up questions and have an open conversation about any concerns. If their responses remain unclear or make you uneasy, it's perfectly okay to continue your search. The ideal host family will appreciate honesty just as much as you do.

In most cases, no. Family meals are generally viewed as part of the cultural exchange rather than working hours. However, if the au pair is expected to supervise the children, help with childcare throughout the meal, or remain responsible for the children afterwards, that time may be considered part of their duties. The strongest host family–au pair relationships are built on mutual respect, honest communication, and understanding that cultural exchange also includes respecting each other's personal space. When inclusion is offered- not expected-everyone feels more comfortable, valued, and at home.

In most cases, no. Vacation planning should be a shared decision that considers both the family's childcare needs and the au pair's personal plans. Agreeing together creates a happier and more successful cultural exchange. A great au pair experience isn't built on assumptions—it's built on respect, flexibility, and communication.

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To register as an au pair, visit the website https://www.auost.de/, navigate to the 'Au pair program' on the top left, and then scroll to the bottom and click on 'Become an Au pair' to register.

Log in to your Auost account, and on the left-hand side of the navigation panel, you’ll find the section ‘Membership’. Click on that to display the available plans to upgrade to

This depends on season, country, profile quality, and flexibility. Some users find matches within days, while others may take several weeks or months.

Not every placement is a perfect fit. Auost recommends discussing expectations clearly before arrival. In some situations, users may decide to rematch with another Au-pair or Host Family.

Yes. Users can report suspicious, abusive, misleading, or inappropriate behavior directly through the platform. Reports are reviewed to help maintain a respectful and safe community.

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