Au Pair Visa
Young non-EU people living with an Italian host family to learn the language while helping with childcare.
The Au Pair Visa is a Italian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs) and processing time (~1-2 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Au Pair Visa is for
Young non-EU people living with an Italian host family to learn the language while helping with childcare.
A temporary cultural-exchange stay that does not lead directly to PR.
Au Pair Visa - eligibility criteria
- Aged roughly 18-30
- Au pair agreement with a host family
- Pocket money and board provided by the family
- Enrolment in a language course
- Health insurance for the placement
Au Pair Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Au Pair Visa (Italy) is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs, with an indicative processing time of ~1-2 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Italy Visa Portal.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At an Italian consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 12 months |
| Work rights | Light childcare/household help for the host family |
| Study rights | Language study expected alongside placement |
| Government fee | ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs |
| Processing time | ~1-2 months |
| Route to PR | A temporary cultural-exchange stay that does not lead directly to PR. |
Pathway & next steps
A temporary cultural-exchange stay that does not lead directly to PR.
Many applicants also compare Working Holiday · Working Holiday Visa, Training · Study / Vocational Training & Internship Visa, Student · National Student Visa (Type D - Study). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Italian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Au Pair Visa pitfalls we fix
Au Pair Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Au Pair Visa cost?
The Au Pair Visa government fee is ~€116 visa + ~€100+ residence permit costs. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Italy Visa Portal before applying.
How long does the Au Pair Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-2 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Au Pair Visa lead to permanent residence?
A temporary cultural-exchange stay that does not lead directly to PR.
Can I work on the Au Pair Visa?
Work rights: Light childcare/household help for the host family.
Who can apply for the Au Pair Visa?
Young non-EU people living with an Italian host family to learn the language while helping with childcare.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Italy government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Italy Visa Portal - official Italy immigration authority