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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 Panama

Au pairs are not exactly in high demand in Panama. This is a country that still has a lot of transparent poverty for much of the population, so many people in Panama cannot afford an au pair or a nanny.

It is more likely that you would come across an au pair from Panama that left the country than a foreigner who has come to the country to be an au pair. Nevertheless, being an au pair is still an option to explore.

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 dominant language)
• 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.

An excellent place to look for an au pair or nanny opportunity is on EasyExpat’s au pair in Panama classifieds section.

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 job listings. You can also ask questions and find advice on the forums or network.

Visas for Au Pair in Panama

If hired by a family to be an au pair, the family would apply for a work visa for the applicant.

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".