Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair
For young people coming for cultural exchange, including au pairs hosted by a Dutch family through a recognised agency.
The Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair is a Dutch study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€243 (2025) au pair; cultural exchange similar) and processing time (~90 days (legal maximum)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair is for
For young people coming for cultural exchange, including au pairs hosted by a Dutch family through a recognised agency.
Strictly temporary; does not lead to permanent residence.
Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair - eligibility criteria
- Aged 18-30 (au pair), placed via a recognised agency
- Host family with no relatives of the au pair in NL
- Light household tasks only, within hour limits
- Receive pocket money and board/lodging
- Will leave at the end of the year
Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair (Netherlands) is ~€243 (2025) au pair; cultural exchange similar, with an indicative processing time of ~90 days (legal maximum). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IND (Netherlands).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed with the IND by the recognised exchange/au-pair agency |
| Length of stay | Up to 1 year (non-renewable) |
| Work rights | Au pairs: light household duties only (max 30 hours/week, 8/day) |
| Study rights | Cultural and language activities encouraged |
| Government fee | ~€243 (2025) au pair; cultural exchange similar |
| Processing time | ~90 days (legal maximum) |
| Route to PR | Strictly temporary; does not lead to permanent residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Strictly temporary; does not lead to permanent residence.
Many applicants also compare Student · Residence permit for study (higher education), WHS · Working Holiday Scheme / Young Workers Exchange (WHS), Partner/Spouse · Residence permit for stay with partner or spouse (family reunification). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Dutch route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair pitfalls we fix
Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair - frequently asked questions
How much does the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair cost?
The Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair government fee is ~€243 (2025) au pair; cultural exchange similar. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IND (Netherlands) before applying.
How long does the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~90 days (legal maximum). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair lead to permanent residence?
Strictly temporary; does not lead to permanent residence.
Can I work on the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair?
Work rights: Au pairs: light household duties only (max 30 hours/week, 8/day).
Who can apply for the Residence permit for cultural exchange / au pair?
For young people coming for cultural exchange, including au pairs hosted by a Dutch family through a recognised agency.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Netherlands government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IND (Netherlands) - official Netherlands immigration authority