How to Become a Nanny in Europe
Nannies in Europe work in a wide range of social, cultural and economic conditions. The term Au Pair is also used to describe nannies. Payment often includes living expenses, and the nanny commonly lives with the family. Hours can be as little as 10 hours a week,or as many as 10 to 12 hours a day, five days a week. Take time to decide what duties, countries and hours you are willing to work to ensure a safe and happy transition to your new position.
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Instructions
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Apply for a passport. Passports require a certified copy of your birth certificate, which alone can take months to arrive if you don't have one. The passport will take approximately six weeks to arrive. Expedited services can assist in obtaining a speedier passport if needed.
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Decide what country or countries in Europe you would like to work and fulfil visa requirements. Every country has different requirements for working as a nanny or au pair. A list of visa requirements for nannies in various European countries can be found at GreatAuPair.
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Decide what employment limitations you will have. Such as how many hours would you like to work? What weekly income is required to support yourself and pay any bills or taxes from America? What ages of children are you comfortable working with? What amount of English language proficiency would you like the family to have?
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Browse multiple nanny and au pair websites for positions suited to your preferences. Popular sites include AuPairAgency, PlanetAuPair and GreatAuPair. AuPairsWorldwide offers a list of Au Pair sites by country.
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Create or update a resume for the position desired including language fluency. Also highlight all paid and non-paid work relating to a nanny position such as volunteering with children.
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Apply and interview for positions. Apply for as many positions as you feel comfortable. Interview with potential employers via phone and request a meeting in person before fully accepting the position once you arrive.
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Tips & Warnings
When interviewing, ask for a detailed description of all duties you will be responsible for. There is nothing worse than arriving and realizing you are supposed to scrub the floors daily.
There is no guarantee the position you accept when still in America will be what you expected when you actually meet the family. Look into agencies that can help you if your first choice doesn't work out when you get there.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Two girls and the kid image by YURY MARYUNIN from Fotolia.com
