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An au pair is in charge of taking care of the children and lives within the home of the family. The au pair is provided accommodation and meals and a stipend of spending money. The family gains a loving caretaker for their children and an addition to the family. Expats have both found work, and employed, au pairs.

Au Pair in Ghana

Being an au pair in Ghana is generally something that is restricted to other expatriate families, as local Ghanaian families will often hire local workers for such a service. Within the expatriate service, the practice of au pair is not especially common.

What the au pair must know

Becoming an au pair in Ghana requires a lot of initiative and organization, as they are no formal organizing bodies for the service. The easiest way to find au pair jobs is likely through personal networks and connections within the expatriate community.

The following items are often preferred or required if you want to be an au pair.

• Be conversant in English
• Be between 18-27 years old
• Have a High School diploma or equivalent
• Be able to commit to at least a 6 month placement
• Have at least 6 months child care experience
• Be able to provide 3 references regarding your experience and character
• Be in good physical and mental condition as evidenced by a Physician's Report. Agree to a background check.

In addition to these requirements, it is common for families to ask for non-smoking, possession of driver's license, responsible or non-drinkers, and for females. Many au pair families prefer native English speakers. Some agencies may also require time spent tutoring.

What the family has to do

The family has to welcome the au pair in thinking that she is not just an employee, but an important part of the family. Therefore:

• The au pair must have her own bedroom.
• The au pair will work to a maximum of 40 hours per week with a minimum 2 days off during the week.
• They understand that having an au pair does not mean having a servant. Au pairs may be asked to do some housework as agreed upon in the contract.
• It may be of benefit to register the au pair at the family doctor.
• The family should pay an allowance, with the amount written into the contract.

One good place to look for a nanny is on EasyExpat's job listings. You can also ask questions and find advice on the forums or network.

Visa

Au pair’s in Ghana might be encouraged to secure a business or tourist visa. It would depend on the nature of your agreement with your employer.

If hired through an agency, the agency usually guides the au pair through the process. For more information on visas in general, consult the section on "Passport and Visas".