FRANCE
Discover France's rich culture first hand by living and working in Paris, the City of Light. Home to the Musee du Louvre and Musee d'Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triumphe and Notre Dame, there is no shortage of sights to see.
France is a member of the European Union, and welcomes au pairs from other EU/EEA States. They must present a valid identity card to the appropriate authorities.
Au pairing has always been a favoured way for young women to learn French and increasingly, for young men too.
- The pocket money for au pairs in France is currently Euro 305 per month (in Paris a little more plus a carte orange or travel pass).
- A monthly transportation card
- 2 weeks of paid vacation per year.
- At least one complete day off per week (usually Sunday).
- Basic health and accident insurance through the French Social Security System (long placements).
North Americans can fix up au pair placements directly with a French Agency, but bear in mind you may have to pay the high placement fees (typically $100) in advance and that in some cases very little advance information about the family is available. Enrolement in a French language course is compulsory for Non-European au pairs.
In Paris, the notice board at the American Church (65 Quai d'Orsay) is crammed with announcements for live-in positions. Unless you especially like very small chihldren, it might be better to look for a free room in exchange for minimal babysitting.
The Au Pair in France Program runs year-round and is offered for 10 to 12 months. Most placements start in September and end the following June.
Foreign Non EU Au Pairs must observe the following:
- Au pair applicants must be between 17 years and 30 years.
- The Passport signed and valid for a period of 3 months after the last day of stay.
- Two (2) long stay visa application forms completely and legibly filled out in French. PRINT IN BLACK.
- Two (2) Passport size photographs glued to the forms.
- Employment contract signed by a "DDTEFP"(Direction Departementale du travail, del'emploi et de la formation professionnelle) depending on the French family residence (plus one copy).
- Student ID or proof of studies.
- Letter of admission from a French school (plus one copy).
- Visa fee by money-order made out to "Consulate General of France" or certified cheque. Cash will be accepted only if you apply and appear in person.
For up-to-date information you should contact your nearest Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
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