This section contains a wealth of information, related to Spanish Au Pairs. If you cannot find an answer to your question, make sure to contact us.
Why choose Spanish Au Pair?
We take a personal approach to every match. All our au pairs are vetted, with references checked and verified. Each profile usually includes 7–10 documents, such as proof of education, police clearance, a copy of their passport and verified childcare references. We only place au pairs who have a genuine interest in working with children.
What are the fees?
We offer several packages to suit different families’ needs. [See our fees here → link to /become-a-host-family/]
Why do you only place Spanish au pairs?
Spanish au pairs settle very well in Ireland. There’s a large Spanish community here, they’re family-oriented and sociable, and home is only a two-hour flight away, so homesickness is rare. They love day trips at the weekend and getting to know Irish culture.
If you’d like to see au pairs of other nationalities, please visit [www.aupaireurope.com].
Are they vetted?
Yes. All profiles are vetted and medically cleared, and we double-check every reference. We work with trusted partner agencies in Spain to find the best match for everyone.
How much are au pairs paid?
Our au pairs are paid properly. In Ireland, an au pair is an employee of the host family and must be paid at least the national minimum wage for every hour worked (€14.15 per hour from 1 January 2026 for those aged 20 and over), with a limited amount counted for meals and accommodation. Depending on hours, this is typically between €225 and €400 per week.
Do I need to run payroll?
Yes. As the employer, you’ll need to register with Revenue, run a simple payroll and give your au pair a payslip each week. You’ll also need to provide written terms of employment, paid annual leave and public holidays. Our partner Nanny Payroll can handle the payroll side for you. For full details, see our [Employment Law] and [Payroll] pages, or visit [Citizens Information].
How many hours do au pairs work?
Our au pairs work no more than 30 hours a week, including one evening of babysitting.
Happy Au Pair = Happy Children = Happy Home.
How long does the process take?
Usually between one and four weeks, depending on your requirements. The more detail you give in your questionnaire, the better we can match you. The au pair and family choose each other, so we make sure everyone’s interests line up.
Tips for interviews
We recommend three video interviews. Au pairs are often nervous in the first one, so please speak slowly. Involve the children in the second. By the third, if everyone is happy with the match, you can agree the hours, pay and other terms.
What can au pairs and families expect?
An au pair placement is a chance for a young person to experience Irish life, including the food, sport, places and everything that makes Ireland home, while caring for your children. Many au pairs spend weekends with friends, but you’re welcome to invite them to family activities. Au pairs often teach the children some Spanish, and many families stay in touch with their au pair for years after they return to Spain.
What do au pairs do?
Au pairs are an extra pair of hands around the house, focused on the children. Typical duties include:
– Getting the children ready in the morning
– Preparing light snacks
– School drop-offs and pick-ups
– Helping with homework
– Tidying the children’s toys
– Helping with the children’s laundry
– Light housework
Do you place au pairs in rural areas?
Yes, as long as there are English classes within 30 minutes of the house. We research your area to check for classes and other au pairs nearby. If there’s no bus stop close by, the au pair will need to drive.
Do we collect them from the airport?
Yes, this is very important, as first impressions last. The au pair pays for their own flight to Ireland.
Will they get information about the area?
Yes. We send every au pair an information pack about their area, with ideas for things to do, and put them in touch with other au pairs nearby.
What days do they get off?
Au pairs have two full days off each week, plus all public holidays. Our au pairs never work on Sundays, and their second day off is usually Saturday.
When do they attend English classes?
Usually in the evening, typically 7pm to 9pm, which suits both au pairs and families. We’ll send them all the details for their area.
What happens if there are issues?
Please talk about any issues straight away, and let us know as soon as they come up. If they can’t be resolved, we can visit the house and talk with both of you.
What happens if issues can’t be resolved?
We’ll look into the cause and find a replacement where a suitable match is available. If the problem is caused by the family, such as hours or pay, the au pair will be moved as soon as possible.
How long is a placement?
It depends on your family’s needs. The average placement is 9 to 12 months, and many au pairs stay longer, which gives great stability to both families and au pairs.
When are you available?
Seven days a week. Families and au pairs can call or email us with any questions.
Register Here
Do you have any questions?
Contact our SpanishAuPair team by phone or email. We will be more than happy to help you.
