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 Bangkok
Au pair jobs are fairly common in Bangkok, both with families wanting their children to be able to communicate with the au pair in their native language, or Thai families wanting their children to learn how to speak English. However, because of Thailand's difficult conditions when applying for a work permit, it is fairly difficult for a non-Thai national to work in this position legally.
What the au pair Must Know
Basic application criteria vary from agency to agency, but there are a few typical requirements:
- Be conversant in English or Thai
- 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
- Have a driver's license or be willing to get one
- 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. Note that curfews are common.
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.
An excellent place to look for a nanny is on EasyExpat's au pair listings in Thailand. You can also ask questions and find advice on the Thailand forums or expat network in Thailand.
Au Pair Agencies in Thailand
There are many international agencies that have branches in Thailand.
Update 15/09/2013
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