Report it if
- You work more than 30 hours a week
- You get no pocket money
- You get no days off
- You work for others or outside the home
- Your passport is taken from you
Your rights
The rules that protect you
8 hoursa day, at most
30 hoursa week, at most
2 daysoff every week
€340pocket money a month
When it goes wrong
Signs of abuse
Your options
- Talk to your agency first
- Report it to the IND or the Labour Inspectorate
- Ask the agency for another host family
- Call the police in an emergency – 112
Changes
A new family or a new agency
1
New host family
You may change family. The agency informs the IND – you can also use form 9597.
2
Agency stops
With more than 3 months left, you have 3 months to find a new recognised agency.
3
Less than 3 months left
The permit cannot be extended – plan your departure or next permit.
FAQ
Questions about rights and rules
Can I work extra hours for extra money?
No. Extra work, also babysitting for other families, is not allowed.
Do I get holidays?
The law sets no holiday rule. Agencies usually agree on paid holidays in the contract.
Can I take a language course?
Yes, many families support a course – agree on it in advance.
Will reporting abuse cost me my permit?
Reporting is your right. We help you protect your stay while you change family.
Related routes
After your au pair year
Study
Student permit
Admitted to a Dutch university or university of applied sciences? Your next step.
study-visa.nl Open website FamilyPartner visa
Met your partner here? Living together in the Netherlands.
partner-visa.nl Open website WorkHighly skilled migrant
A Dutch employer wants to hire you as a knowledge migrant.
hsmvisa.nl Open website Short staySchengen visa
Family or friends visiting you – up to 90 days.
shortstayvisa.nl Open websiteInformation valid for 2026, based on ind.nl and the European Migration Network. Rules can change – always check the latest information with us or on ind.nl.