Legal Guide
The Chinese government has not introduced specific official approvals for Au Pair programs, but there are no laws prohibiting such projects either. In China, an Au Pair is not considered an employed worker and therefore cannot use a work visa (Z-visa). The X2 short-term student visa is typically the appropriate visa category for Au Pairs in China. While student visas may permit internships or part-time work, it is crucial to pay attention to the following points:
- Ensure that the educational institution has a genuine address and is officially engaged in teaching Chinese as a foreign language.
- The monthly pocket money received from the host family should not exceed 2,500 RMB.
- Do not engage in commercial activities or accept paid work during your free time.
- Au Pairs must attend classes on time and strive to complete their assignments.
- Au Pairs need to pay attention to understanding and learning Chinese laws. For example, it is not permitted to bring more than 4 packs of cigarettes into China, and any addictive drugs, including marijuana, are strictly prohibited. For more details, please click the link below.
Special Policy for the Incoming Au Pair Program in China
Free mandarin class payed by host family, free meals and accomodation with flight subside :
You do not need to pay for your Chinese language lessons and you are eligible for a flight subsidy. The amount of this subsidy depends on the duration of your stay. If you complete the full 12-month au pair program, you will receive a 100% subsidy for your round-trip airfare. Each au pair receives support from their host family to travel within China or study Chinese. The host family covers the tuition fees and provides the flight subsidy.
Cultural exchange program:
in China, being an au pair is not considered a formal job position but rather a cultural exchange program. au pair in China is not expected to take on heavy household chores but you should keep your bedroom clean and tidy.
The main role of the au pair:
The main role of the au pair is to provide a language environment for the host family’s children, help spark their interest in learning a foreign language, and play with them. Through shared daily life, you will help the children improve their foreign language skills. This, of course, requires some skill and preparation. For example, you might observe the games the children enjoy, prepare vocabulary or phrases in advance for your interactions, and communicate these plans to the parents. Involving the parents can help the children understand you better, and you should always encourage the children to speak the foreign language during your interactions.
Culture exchange service time and holidays:
Your service time with the host family is typically 25 to 35 hours per week. In addition to receiving free room and board, you are entitled to one full day off per week. On your day off, you are free to go out, and extensive interaction with the children is not required.
Regarding holidays: you generally do not observe Chinese national statutory holidays as paid time off, as your stay in China is a cultural exchange program, not employment. Your regular schedule, including your weekly day off, applies. However, if you need time off for specific holidays like Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, or other major holidays from your home country, you can discuss this with your host parents in advance to arrange for free time.
Tips for legal risks:
- It is not permitted to bring more than 4 packs of cigarettes into China, and any addictive drugs, including marijuana, are strictly prohibited. For more details, please click the link below.
- You cannot take on additional part-time work for other individuals or organizations. While online side jobs might carry lower perceived risk, offline commercial activities (such as working as a model or a foreign teacher/tutor at a training institution) carry significant legal risks.
- Regarding Photography and Videography: When traveling outside, if you encounter military areas, military equipment, or activities involving military personnel or armed police, please do not take photos or make videos. It is strictly prohibited to photograph or record in these sensitive locations, and ignoring warning signs could lead to serious legal consequences.
- Regarding Public Expression: In China, please refrain from making any public negative comments about the Chinese government, its leaders, political parties, or the political system. Furthermore, do not repost, share, or comment on related content from overseas websites that may contain inappropriate or critical remarks.