Dreaming of living abroad but worried about the costs? Many young Filipinos feel the same way. Becoming an Au Pair in the Netherlands might be your perfect chance to experience Europe while gaining valuable life skills.
Want to know if you'd fit well with a Dutch family? Take our quick questionnaire at Klaver to find out.
What Does Being an Au Pair Actually Mean?
An Au Pair lives with a host family abroad, helping with the kids and doing some light housework. In return, you get:
- A place to stay (for free!)
- All your meals covered
- A monthly allowance
- A genuine taste of Dutch family life
Unlike typical overseas work, being an Au Pair gives you the chance to truly experience Dutch culture from the inside. You're treated more like a family member than an employee.
Why Dutch Families Love Filipino Au Pairs
Dutch parents appreciate the caring nature that's so typical in Filipino culture. Your help will usually involve:
- Getting the kids ready for school
- Cooking simple meals
- Playing with the children
- Helping with homework
- Some basic household tasks
The work is reasonable – Dutch families understand you're there for cultural exchange, not to be their housekeeper!
What's In It For You? More Than You Might Think!
Daily Life in Dutch Shoes
Living with a Dutch family means you'll experience traditions most tourists never see. You'll celebrate Sinterklaas, cycle everywhere (yes, even in the rain!), and learn why the Dutch eat so much bread with sprinkles for breakfast.
Coming from the Philippines, you might find some Dutch habits surprising. They're famously direct (sometimes brutally honest), and they raise children quite differently – encouraging independence from a very young age.
These differences? They're actually golden opportunities for personal growth.
Money Matters That Make Sense
Being an Au Pair isn't about getting rich, but the financial setup is pretty smart:
- Zero rent payments – no housing expenses while in one of Europe's most expensive countries
- No grocery bills – your host family feeds you
- Monthly stipend of €300-€340 (about ₱18,000-₱21,000) – all yours for savings or fun
- Free time to explore the Netherlands and nearby European countries
Many Filipino Au Pairs save enough for travel or bring home a decent amount after their stay.
Skills That Last a Lifetime
The experience builds confidence you never knew you needed. You'll become more independent, improve your English (and learn some Dutch!), and develop problem-solving skills that future employers will love.
Think you're ready? Take our free assessment to see if you're a good match for Dutch family life.
Getting There: The Practical Steps
The process isn't complicated, but it does require planning:
- Connect with a reputable agency (Klaver Au Pair can help you connect one)
- Complete your profile and application documents
- Interview with potential host families (online)
- Prepare your paperwork, including:
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Medical clearance
- Signed contract
- Let your host family apply for your residence permit
- Attend pre-departure orientation
- Pack your bags and fly to the Netherlands!
The Real Challenges (And How to Handle Them)
Let's be honest – moving to a different country comes with challenges:
The Culture Shock Is Real
In the Philippines, we often communicate indirectly to avoid conflict. The Dutch? They'll tell you exactly what they think! At first, this directness might feel rude, but you'll soon appreciate knowing exactly where you stand.
Missing Home Happens to Everyone
Even with daily video calls, you'll miss Filipino food, family celebrations, and the familiar comfort of home. Finding Filipino communities in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht can help ease the homesickness.
Finding Your Place in the Family
You're not quite a family member, not quite an employee. This unique relationship takes time to navigate. Clear communication about expectations and boundaries makes all the difference.
Filipino-Specific Tips for Success
Based on experiences from other Filipino Au Pairs:
- Punctuality matters enormously in Dutch culture – being late is considered disrespectful
- Children are encouraged to be independent – don't be surprised if even young kids make their own decisions
- The concept of "hiya" doesn't exist in Dutch culture – speaking up is valued over being modest
- Direct communication is preferred over hints or subtle cues
- Privacy and personal time are highly respected – Dutch families expect you to have your own life
Real Stories from Filipinos Who've Done It
Maria from Manila shares: "My first week, I was shocked when my 8-year-old host kid made his own lunch. In the Philippines, we would do everything for children that age! Now I see how this independence helps them grow."
Carlos from Davao adds: "The weather was my biggest challenge – so cold and rainy! But my host family helped me find proper clothes, and now I even enjoy biking in light rain."
Ready to write your own story? Complete our quick questionnaire and let Klaver connect you with your future Dutch family.
Taking this step might feel scary now, but ask any Filipino who's been an Au Pair in the Netherlands – it could be the adventure that changes everything.
