As an Au Pair, one of the many benefits you get to enjoy is the opportunity to travel and explore new places. But how many vacation days are you entitled to? This is a question that comes up quite often, and in this article, we will be answering that question.
What is an Au Pair?
Before we delve into the topic of vacation days, let’s first understand what an Au Pair is. An Au Pair is a young person who moves to a foreign country to live with a host family and take care of their children. In exchange for their services, they receive free accommodation, meals, and sometimes a stipend.
How Many Vacation Days Do Au Pairs Get?
As an Au Pair, you are entitled to at least one day off per week. This day off should be consecutive and agreed upon beforehand with your host family.
Additionally, you should receive two weeks of paid vacation during your year-long stay. This means that you can take two weeks off at any time during your contract year.
It’s important to note that some countries have different regulations regarding vacation days for Au Pairs. For example, in the United States, Au Pairs are entitled to two weeks of paid vacation but can only take their vacation time after completing six months of service.
How Should You Plan Your Vacation Time?
When planning your vacation time as an Au Pair, it’s essential to communicate with your host family beforehand. Let them know when you plan on taking your vacation so that they can make arrangements for childcare while you’re away.
It’s also important to plan ahead for any travel expenses or activities you want to do during your vacation time. Remember that while you’re entitled to paid vacation time as an Au Pair, it’s still up to you to cover any expenses related to your travel or activities.
Other Considerations
Aside from the mandatory vacation time, some host families may also offer additional vacation days or time off. This is something that you can negotiate with your host family before signing your contract.
Additionally, if you have any unforeseen circumstances that require you to take time off, such as illness or a family emergency, it’s important to communicate this with your host family as soon as possible.
In conclusion, as an Au Pair, you are entitled to at least one day off per week and two weeks of paid vacation during your year-long stay. It’s important to communicate with your host family beforehand when planning your vacation time and consider any additional expenses related to travel or activities. Remember that while being an Au Pair is a fantastic opportunity for travel and exploration, it’s also a job that comes with responsibilities and obligations.