Working hours and tasks
When does the au pair have time off?
Short answer
An au pair has 1,5 consecutive days off per week and at least one free weekend a month. The days off do not have to fall on the same weekdays every week, but can be arranged individually to suit family life.
Last updated: 13.08.2026
What lies behind it
The days off can be scheduled differently from week to week. For families whose daily routine does not look the same every week, there is therefore no need to agree fixed weekdays off.
What matters is that the schedule is discussed with the au pair in good time. For example, you can sit down together every Sunday and set the weekly plan for the coming week: when does the au pair work, and when do their 1,5 consecutive days off fall?
It is important that the days off are consecutive. This gives the au pair genuine time for themselves — to meet friends, go on a trip, or even travel to another city and stay overnight there without having to be available to the family straight away again.
The au pair is entitled to at least one free weekend a month.