Au pair work in South Africa generally requires a matric certificate, a valid driving licence, a clear criminal record, and first aid training. Families set their own requirements, and there is no licensing body, which makes references and background checks the main assurance on both sides.
The absence of regulation cuts both ways. It makes the work accessible, but it also means your protections depend on the agreement you put in place, so a written contract matters more here than in regulated employment.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Families and agencies generally look for the following.
- A National Senior Certificate
- A valid driving licence, since school and activity transport is usually part of the role
- A clear criminal record check
- First aid certification, commonly required for childcare
- Contactable references from previous childcare work
- For live-in roles, agreement on accommodation and hours
Education and Subject Requirements
A matric certificate is the usual baseline. Studies in education, psychology or child development strengthen an application, and some families specifically want an au pair who can help with schoolwork.
First aid training is worth obtaining before applying rather than after. It is one of the few things that materially differentiates candidates for childcare roles.
Age, Fitness, Licence and Background Requirements
A criminal record check is essential and families should insist on one. If you are the au pair, expect to provide it; if you are the family, obtain it rather than assuming.
For au pairs working abroad, requirements differ entirely by country and usually involve a specific visa category with age limits and programme conditions. Confirm those with the destination embassy.
Documents and Evidence Required
Expect to provide the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate
- Your valid driving licence
- A police clearance certificate
- A first aid certificate
- Contactable references from previous childcare work
- A written employment agreement
Application and Selection Process
Put the arrangement in writing whichever side you are on: hours, duties, pay, overtime, use of a vehicle, notice period, and what happens during school holidays.
Au pairs are generally employees rather than independent contractors, which means employment law protections apply, including on working hours, leave and notice. Do not assume the arrangement sits outside labour law because it is informal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driving licence to be an au pair?
Usually yes, since school and activity transport is commonly part of the role.
Is first aid training required?
Families commonly require it for childcare, and it materially strengthens an application.
Do employment laws apply to au pairs?
Au pairs are generally employees, so employment law protections on hours, leave and notice apply. Put the arrangement in writing.
What about au pairing overseas?
Requirements differ by country and usually involve a specific visa category with age limits. Confirm with the destination embassy.
Confirm employment law obligations with the Department of Employment and Labour, and confirm overseas au pair visa requirements with the destination embassy. Browse all career requirements.