Residence Permit for Au Pair
Sweden
Last updated: December 28, 2025
12 months
$150
4-5 months
Medium
About this Visa
Sweden's au pair visa lets you live with a Swedish family, care for their children, and learn Swedish for 12 months. The family provides housing, food, and pocket money. You work part-time (max 25 hours/week) and take Swedish classes. It's a cultural exchange program, not a regular job. The program is active and accepting applications in 2025. You get legal work permission, automatic health insurance, and free or low-cost Swedish language classes. The government checks your background carefully because they want genuine cultural exchange, not just cheap labor. After 12 months, your visa ends. You cannot extend it or use it to get permanent residency. If you want to stay in Sweden longer, you need a different type of visa.
Key Benefits
- Work legally with housing and food provided
- Free or low-cost Swedish language classes
- Automatic health insurance and social benefits
- 2 weeks paid vacation per year
- Live with Swedish family for cultural immersion
- Tax-registered legal employment
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18-30 years old
- Unmarried with no dependent children
- Clean criminal record (no convictions)
- Speak basic Swedish or English
- Show genuine interest in Swedish language and culture
- Have childcare experience or willingness to learn
- Have signed contract with Swedish host family before applying
- Finished basic school education
- Must be in good health with no contagious diseases
Financial Requirement
You receive minimum $570/month pocket money plus free housing and meals from host family. You must show proof of travel funds, valid health insurance, and clean background check.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for entire 12-month stay
- Signed au pair contractAgreement with host family about work, hours, and pay
- Health certificateFrom a doctor, dated within last 3 months
- Criminal record certificateClean background check from home country
- Health insurance documentationProof of medical coverage for Sweden
- Swedish language course registrationProof you've enrolled in a Swedish class
- Cultural interest statementStatement about why you want to learn Swedish and experience Swedish culture
- Travel funds proofBank statement showing you can afford to travel to Sweden
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.