Au Pair Contract Template
A written employment contract is required by South African law for all domestic workers, including au pairs. Use this template as a starting point and customise it for your specific arrangement.
Download the Template
Free PDF — fill in, print, and sign. Both parties keep a copy.
What Your Contract Should Cover
1. Parties
Full names, ID numbers, and addresses of the employer (family) and employee (au pair).
2. Commencement & Duration
Start date, whether fixed-term or indefinite, and any probation period (maximum 3 months for domestic workers).
3. Duties & Responsibilities
Detailed list of childcare duties, age groups, number of children, and any additional tasks (light housework, cooking, school runs). Be specific to avoid disputes.
4. Working Hours
Maximum 45 hours per week (BCEA). Normal hours (e.g. 7:00–16:30 Mon-Fri). Overtime at 1.5x normal rate. Maximum 10 hours overtime per week. Live-in au pairs must have clear "off-duty" times.
5. Remuneration
Monthly salary (minimum R30.23/hr as of 2026), payment date (no later than 7 days after period end), payment method. Specify any in-kind benefits (accommodation, meals) and their value — these can be deducted from cash salary up to limits set by Sectoral Determination 7.
6. Leave
Annual leave: 15 working days per leave cycle (or 1 day per 17 days worked). Sick leave: 30 days over 3-year cycle (first 6 months: 1 day per 26 days worked). Family responsibility leave: 3 days per year (after 4 months). Maternity leave: 4 months (UIF benefits apply). Public holidays: all 12 SA public holidays (double pay if worked).
7. Accommodation (Live-In)
Description of accommodation provided (private room, bathroom access, security). Conditions for residing on premises. What happens to accommodation upon termination.
8. Transport
Transport arrangements: allowance amount, use of family vehicle (insurance requirements), or public transport reimbursement.
9. UIF (Unemployment Insurance Fund)
Both employer and employee contribute 1% of salary to UIF. Employer must register with Department of Labour and make monthly submissions.
10. Termination & Notice
Notice period: 1 week (employed < 6 months), 2 weeks (6 months–1 year), 4 weeks (1+ year). Notice must be in writing. Summary dismissal only for gross misconduct. Fair procedure required per Labour Relations Act.
11. Confidentiality
Au pair agrees not to disclose family's private information. Family agrees not to share au pair's personal documents without consent.
12. Dispute Resolution
First attempt internal resolution. Then CCMA (Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration). Sectoral Determination 7 governs the relationship.
Legal Requirements Checklist
✓Written contract provided to employee
✓Minimum wage compliance (R30.23/hr)
✓UIF registration and monthly payment
✓Copy of contract kept by both parties
✓Working hours clearly defined (max 45/week)
✓Leave entitlements stated
✓Notice period specified
✓Duties clearly described
✓Salary and payment date agreed
✓Overtime rate specified (1.5x)
Disclaimer: This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We recommend having your contract reviewed by a labour law professional. AuPairly is not responsible for any disputes arising from the use of this template.