Must an au pair live with the host family?

When the au pair lives next door

This could, for example, be a room at the grandparents' in the same street, a flat with direct neighbours, a separate granny flat, or other directly adjoining accommodation. In some larger cities there are also so-called au pair shared flats, where au pairs from different host families live together.

It is important that the character of the au pair stay is preserved: the au pair should be integrated into family life as a family member for a period of time. Their centre of life should therefore continue to be with the host family. This includes, for example, shared meals and taking part in everyday family life.

Separate accommodation should also be close enough that the au pair can move safely and easily between the host family and their accommodation at any time.

Particularly important: such a living arrangement must be discussed openly before the au pair stay begins. The au pair must agree to the separate accommodation and feel comfortable and safe with it.

Alternative living arrangements can work this way too, as long as closeness, safety and, above all, the au pair's integration into family life are maintained.