Guide to Become an Au pair in Iceland

Published by Movingtoiceland Editor on

A group of friends having a good time

Imagine living in Iceland, where you can find volcanoes and ice, where old traditions meet modern life. If you want to explore this amazing country, becoming an au pair could be your perfect chance. This guide will tell you what you need to know to be an au pair in Iceland and will show you how to start your journey and what to expect when you get there.

As an au pair, you’ll be doing more than just looking after children. You’ll become a part of a family, learn new things, and make friends that feel like family. You can make connections that last a lifetime. In this guide, you will find out what you need to do before you come to Iceland, like the rules you need to follow to work there.

But itโ€™s not all work; you will live in a place that can sometimes feel like a fairytale. When you’re not busy, you might see the northern lights, walk by beautiful waterfalls, and join in on local celebrations that make Iceland special.

This guide is here to help you get ready for a life-changing time. It’ll make sure you know what you’re doing and that you’ll enjoy living the Icelandic way. Au pair in Iceland is more than just a jobโ€”it’s a whole new adventure.

Legal Requirements to Become Au pair in Iceland

Before you pack your bags, itโ€™s crucial to understand the legalities. Non-EU/EEA citizens will require a residence permit that’s specific to au pairs, which ensures that both the host family and the au pair are protected and have a clear understanding of their obligations. This permit typically allows for a stay of up to one year, and applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old.

Application Process

The first step to your adventure as an au pair in Iceland is to find a host family. This family will be your new home away from home, so itโ€™s important to find a good match. You can start looking for families on reputable au pair websites, through agencies that specialize in placements, or by joining online communities and forums that connect au pairs with families.

When you find a family that seems like the right fit, you’ll need to have a good talk with them to make sure everyone’s expectations are clear. Then, together, youโ€™ll start the paperwork process. This includes signing a contract that outlines your duties, hours, and other important details. With this contract, you can apply for your residence permit. Make sure to start this process early, as it can take a while for all the paperwork to get sorted out.

As you prepare your application, youโ€™ll gather other necessary documents too. These might include a letter of invitation from your host family, proof of health insurance, and possibly a background check. The exact list will depend on the requirements at the time you apply.

Donโ€™t forget to keep in touch with your future host family during this time. They can often help with questions about the process or even provide advice on what to pack for the Icelandic weather. Planning ahead and applying well in advance of when you hope to start will help ensure that all your documents are processed in time for your big move.

Two people overlooking a waterfall in Iceland, embodying the raw beauty and serene nature of Icelandic wilderness. As an au pair in Iceland you can explore stunning landscapes.

Benefits and Challenges

Being an au pair in Iceland is full of good things and some tough parts too. You’ll get to really know what life in Iceland is like, learn a new language, and become like family with the people you live with. But it’s not easy all the time. You need to be ready to work hard, look after kids for many hours, and handle a lot of responsibility.

The weather in Iceland is also something you’ll have to deal with. The winters are long and dark, and sometimes the weather changes a lot in one day. But that’s all part of the adventure as long as you are prepared for it.

Living Conditions

If you decide to be an au pair in Iceland, you will get a room of your own to live in, along with your meals and some money for personal expenses. Your host family will also take care of your health insurance, which is very important in a new country. Your main job will be to help take care of the kids and do some easy jobs around the house, like cleaning up after meals or tidying up the living areas. This will usually be up to 30 hours a week.

But remember, it’s really important to talk with your host family before you start and get everything you’ve agreed on written down in a contract. This way, you both know what to expect and there’s less chance of any surprises later on. Your contract should include stuff like your work hours, what chores you’ll do, how much free time you’ll have, and details about your stipend. It’s also a good idea to talk about what happens if you get sick and need to see a doctor or take a day off.

Being clear about these things makes life easier for you and your host family and helps make sure your time in Iceland is a great experience. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing you’re taken care of and can focus on enjoying your adventure in this beautiful country.

Cultural Exchange

Being an au pair in Iceland is more than a job; it’s a doorway to a whole new world. When you become an au pair, you’re not just watching from the sidelinesโ€”you’re in the middle of the action. You’ll be part of family dinners, maybe even signing up for classes to learn Icelandic, and diving into celebrations and traditions that make Iceland unique.

Imagine being there for the cozy family gatherings during the long winter nights, or joining in the excitement of the summer festivals under the midnight sun. You’ll get to taste the special holiday foods, learn why Icelanders love their hot springs so much, and understand the local jokes. It’s all about living the life of an Icelander, not just observing it.

This journey will stretch your boundaries and teach you things you can’t learn from books or movies. You’ll see the world through new eyes. Living in Iceland as a local, you’ll collect stories and wisdom that you’ll carry with you forever. It’s not just a trip; it’s a full-on leap into a new way of seeing life.

Comparative Perspective

When you look at being an au pair in different places around the world, Iceland really shines because of its amazing nature and how safe it is. Yes, it might cost more to live there, but what you get for that cost is a better quality of life. People who have been au pairs in Iceland usually say they had a great time. This is a lot because Iceland thinks having a good balance between work and fun is important, and family is a big deal there.

In Iceland, you won’t just be working; you’ll also have the chance to breathe in the clean air, see places that look like they’re from another planet, and maybe even make friends with a puffin. The country values your time to relax and enjoy life, which means you’ll get to have adventures of your own. Plus, being part of a family there means you’ll get a real taste of Icelandic traditions and everyday life.

So, while you might have to budget a bit more carefully because things can be pricey, many au pairs find that the unique experiences they have in Iceland are totally worth it. The memories of living in such a beautiful and welcoming place will stay with you long after your au pair adventure ends.

Checklist

Let’s review the main things that you should know about before becoming an au pair in Iceland:

  • Age: You are between 18 and 25 years old.
  • Language Skills: You have a basic understanding of English or Icelandic.
  • Marital Status: You are unmarried and have no children.
  • Financial Readiness: You can afford the travel expenses to Iceland.
  • Cultural Interest: You have a genuine interest in learning about Icelandic culture and lifestyle.
  • Non-Relation: You are not related by blood or marriage to your host family.
  • Residence Permit: You meet the criteria for an au pair residence permit, which is required for stays longer than 3 months (applicable for EEA nationals*).
  • Education: You have completed a secondary education or equivalent.
  • Experience: Prior experience in childcare or babysitting is preferred, but not mandatory.
  • Health: You are in good health and may need a medical certificate if requested.
  • Background Check: You may be required to provide a clean criminal record certificate.
  • Travel Insurance: You have or will obtain travel insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay.
  • Contract Agreement: You are willing to commit to the terms of the au pair contract, which typically includes stipulated working hours and duties.
  • Adaptability: You are adaptable and ready to live with a host family, sharing their home and daily life.
  • Visa Requirements: If you’re a non-EEA national, you must secure the appropriate visa or documentation to legally work and stay in Iceland.
  • Exit Strategy: You should have a plan for returning to your home country after your au pair contract ends.

These points should help you as an potential au pair to understand what is expected before making your way to to Iceland. It’s crucial to ensure all these requirements are clearly met and understood to make the most out of the au pair experience.

Conclusion and Helpful Resources

Embracing the role of an au pair in Iceland can be an adventure of a lifetime. It offers a unique combination of work and cultural immersion that can lead to personal growth and unforgettable memories. If youโ€™re ready to take on the challenge, the Land of Fire and Ice awaits.

Remember to perform your due diligence and ensure all your legal documents are in order. The world of Icelandic folklore, stunning auroras and nature, and warm, welcoming families is just an application away.

Helpful websites:

Aupairworld.com
Aupair.com
Au pair Permit in Iceland


Movingtoiceland Editor

Movingtoiceland Editor

Contact by email info@movingtoiceland.com