Residence permit for an au pair
Young people (17-30) living with a Finnish host family to learn the language and culture.
The Residence permit for an au pair is a Finnish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€490 online (paper higher)) and processing time (~1-2 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence permit for an au pair is for
Young people (17-30) living with a Finnish host family to learn the language and culture.
Cultural-exchange permit; does not lead to permanent residence.
Residence permit for an au pair - eligibility criteria
- Aged 17-30 and not previously an au pair anywhere
- Basic knowledge of Finnish/Swedish and Finnish culture
- Host family providing room, board and pocket money (~€340 net/month)
- Au pair duties capped at 25 hours per week
Residence permit for an au pair cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence permit for an au pair (Finland) is ~€490 online (paper higher), with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside Finland (online via Enter Finland) |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year (not renewable as au pair) |
| Work rights | Light family duties up to 25 hours per week |
| Study rights | Language and culture learning |
| Government fee | ~€490 online (paper higher) |
| Processing time | ~1-2 months |
| Route to PR | Cultural-exchange permit; does not lead to permanent residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Cultural-exchange permit; does not lead to permanent residence.
Many applicants also compare Working Holiday · Working Holiday residence permit, Student · Residence permit application for studies. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Finnish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Residence permit for an au pair pitfalls we fix
Residence permit for an au pair - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence permit for an au pair cost?
The Residence permit for an au pair government fee is ~€490 online (paper higher). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) before applying.
How long does the Residence permit for an au pair take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence permit for an au pair lead to permanent residence?
Cultural-exchange permit; does not lead to permanent residence.
Can I work on the Residence permit for an au pair?
Work rights: Light family duties up to 25 hours per week.
Who can apply for the Residence permit for an au pair?
Young people (17-30) living with a Finnish host family to learn the language and culture.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Finland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) - official Finland immigration authority