Austria as the Ultimate Destination for Au pairing: A Haven for Third-World Nationals
Exploring the Unique Benefits and Opportunities for Au pairs in Austria
In the realm of cultural exchange and international childcare, Austria stands out as a beacon for individuals hailing from third-world countries seeking enriching experiences as au pairs.
Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and robust social security measures, Austria provides a nurturing environment for au pairs to not only explore a new culture but also to enjoy unique benefits and protections.
This article delves into why Austria is the best destination for third-world nationals (Africans or Asians) aspiring to be au pairs, highlighting key aspects such as limited working hours, fair remuneration, comprehensive social security, and an easier visa appointment system.
Understanding Au pairing and its Significance
Before delving into the specifics of au pairing in Austria, it is crucial to comprehend the essence of the au pair program.
An au pair is a young person, typically between the ages of 18 and 27, who travels to a foreign country to live with a host family and assist with childcare and light household duties in exchange for room, board, and a stipend.
This cultural exchange opportunity allows individuals to immerse themselves in a new culture, improve language skills, and build lifelong connections.
What's Covered in This Article
Eligibility Requirements to Work as an Au Pair in Austria
To be eligible to work as an au pair in Austria you must:
- be over 18 and not older than 28 years old;
- if you have been assigned by agency, the agency holds the required licenses;
- not have worked as an au pair in Austria for longer than one year within the last five years, and
- be able to demonstrate that the nature of the work and the remuneration paid for it are consistent with au pair work, specifically that:
- the au pair will use their time in Austria to get to know the country and its people and to improve the German-language skills they have acquired in their home country, with the help of the host family;
- the au pair will be taken into the host family’s family unit (defined as at least one parent or guardian and their child/children) and will carry out light household duties, including childcare;
- the au pair has a minimum command of the German language (acquired at school, on a semester abroad or on a language course) before they begin their employment, as evidenced by a school certificate or other
- confirmation, written in either German or English, and they will improve their command of German by living together with their host family.
Why Austria s the Best Au Pair Country Destination?
1. Limited Working Hours for a Balanced Life
One of the primary reasons Austria stands out as an ideal destination for au pairs is the emphasis on work-life balance.
Austrian regulations strictly limit au pairs to a maximum of 18 working hours per week.
This ensures that au pairs have ample time to explore the country, attend language courses, and immerse themselves in cultural activities without feeling overwhelmed by excessive work commitments.
This balance is particularly beneficial for third-world country nationals re: Africans who may be seeking opportunities for personal growth and exploration.
Au Pairs in Germany work 30 hours per week (including babysitting) with a maximum of 6 hours daily according to the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (German Employment Agency).
Germany Au Pairs are required to have at least 4 evenings and 1,5 complete days free per week.
Working hours for Au Pairs in France from a non-EU country can’t work more than 25 hours per week, babysitting included.
2. Fair Remuneration and Legal Protections
Austria prioritizes fair treatment and just compensation for au pairs.
According to the Austrian General Social Security Act (ASVG), the minimum monthly remuneration for an au pair is set at 500.91 Euros.
This amount aligns with the monthly low-pay threshold, emphasizing Austria’s commitment to ensuring that au pairs receive reasonable compensation for their services.
Furthermore, au pairs in Austria are entitled to 15 monthly salary payments a year, which includes two months’ pay for paid leave and one month’s pay for Christmas holiday pay.
These legal protections provide a safety net for third-world nationals, assuring them of a stable and secure experience.
3. Comprehensive Social Security Measures
Before a host family can employ an au pair, they must register for statutory social security under the ASVG.
This step not only ensures that au pairs are legally employed but also provides them with comprehensive social security coverage.
This includes health insurance, pension contributions, and other benefits, offering third-world country nationals a level of security and support that may be lacking in their home countries.
4. Accommodation and Subsistence: Extra Perks for Au pairs
In addition to the monetary benefits, Austria ensures that au pairs have access to free accommodation and subsistence.
Contributions made by host families towards an au pair’s private medical insurance, language courses, or cultural events are not considered remuneration for social security purposes.
This exemption not only makes au pairing in Austria financially attractive but also demonstrates the country’s commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive cultural exchange experience.
5. Easier Visa Appointment System
Austria boasts an advantageous visa application system for au pairs especially the Austrian embassy in Kenya. online visa appointment booking system which gives all available dates and time per week.
The process is streamlined, making it more accessible for third-world nationals.
The ease of securing an Austrian visa appointment in Kenya is a significant advantage, ensuring a smoother transition for au pairs into their Austrian cultural immersion experience.
As at the writing of this article though, the earliest available visa appointment slots for a Austrian visa was 5 months away.
How to Find a Host Family in Austria as an Au Pair
Finding the right host family is a crucial aspect of the au pair experience.
Fortunately, several platforms and agencies specialize in connecting au pairs with suitable families in Austria.
Websites like AuPairWorld, GreatAuPair, and the Austrian National Agency for International Youth Cooperation (Interkulturelles Zentrum) facilitate the matching process.
Prospective au pairs can create profiles, browse through host family listings, and engage in discussions to ensure compatibility.
How to Apply for an Austrian Au Pair Visa in Kenya, Africa
Au pairs originating from non-EU nations are required to obtain a visa for entry into Austria, with the stipulation that the maximum age for applying as an au pair is 27.
Step 1: Ensure possession of a valid passport
It is imperative for au pairs to possess a valid passport. If the au pair lacks a passport, ample time must be allocated for the acquisition process, as obtaining a passport can take several months.
Step 2: Enrollment of the au pair with the Austrian employment office
Two weeks prior to the commencement of the au pair’s stay, the host family is obligated to contact the Arbeitsmarktservice (AMS), the Austrian employment office.
The registration necessitates specific documents, including:
- Evidence of the au pair’s proficiency in the German language.
- A signed copy of the au pair contract, outlining crucial aspects of the stay. Once both the au pair and the family meet the AMS requirements, an application confirmation is issued, typically valid for six months, extendable for an additional six months.
Basic AMS requirements for au pair confirmation include:
- Applicant age between 18 and 27.
- No prior au pair experience in Austria within the last five years.
- Primary purpose of stay is to experience Austrian life as an au pair.
- Basic knowledge of German with supporting documented evidence.
- Presence of at least one child under 18 in the household.
- Au pair duties predominantly involve childcare and light housework.
Step 3: Visa application
Upon receipt of the AMS application confirmation, the au pair can apply for a visa at the Austrian embassy or consulate, utilizing a provided German form. The confirmation serves as the foundation for both the au pair visa and residence permit.
Required documents for the visa application include:
- Residence permit application.
- Valid travel document.
- Birth certificate or equivalent.
- Current passport photo.
- Recent police clearance check.
- Comprehensive health insurance covering the entire au pair stay.
- Au pair contract.
- Application confirmation from the AMS. Additional documents may be requested, and foreign documents require a certified German translation. Visa processing times for au pairs from Africa and Asia can extend up to four months, potentially impacting a twelve-month au pair stay.
If the au pair resides in a country other than their own, the residence permit can be sought at the Austrian embassy in that country.
Upon approval, the Austrian embassy issues a visa for entry, and the au pair obtains the residence permit in Austria.
For au pairs exempt from visa requirements, residence permit application can be completed directly in Austria. Others must apply before entering the country.
Further information on visas for au pairs from non-EU countries can be found on the Austrian government’s website, available only in German.
Step 4: Inclusion of the au pair in the Austrian social insurance system
Upon arrival in Austria, au pairs should promptly register with the public social insurance system.
Conclusion: Austria, a Gateway to Enriching Aupair Experiences
In conclusion, Austria emerges as the quintessential destination for third-world country nationals aspiring to be au pairs.
From limited working hours and fair remuneration to comprehensive social security measures, additional perks like free accommodation, and an expedited visa appointment system, Austria offers a unique and supportive environment for cultural exchange.
Au pairs in Austria not only contribute to the well-being of host families but also gain invaluable experiences that shape their personal and professional growth.
For those seeking a transformative journey filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and legal protections, Austria stands as an unparalleled haven for au pairs from third-world countries.
