Does anyone know if it's possible for me to get a visa as an au pair while I'm in Switzerland? Or does everything need to be settled before entry? Just in case it makes a difference, I hope to stay in Valais.
Thank you!
Hello! I'm a US citizen planning to visit Switzerland next month. kind of entertaining the idea of possibly becoming an au pair a little later.
You would have to organise it from the US. You cannot apply for a entry visa and residence permit whilst in Switzerland as a tourist.
Thank you!
You would have to apply through an approved Swiss agency, being a non-EU national.
Au pairs:
"The Law on Foreign Nationals, in force since 1 January 2008, has introduced the following changes:
Au pairs from third countries (e.g. USA, Canada, Thailand, etc.) can only receive permits if they are placed through an agency which is approved and licensed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). Currently there are only few such agencies specialising in the placement of au pairs (e.g. profilia). However, we expect the number to increase throughout the year. Au pairs may now be placed only if they are between 18 to 25 years old.
Placement through an agency is not necessary if employing au pairs from EU/EFTA countries. The age range for au pairs from EU/EFTA countries remains between 17 and 30 years of age. Au pairs from “old” EU or EFTA member states (e.g. France,Spain, UK, Norway, etc.) receive their short-time residence permit or residence permit after presenting a work contract and registering themselves with the communal authorities. Au pairs from the new EU member states (e.g. Poland, Slovakia) still require a residence permit from the cantonal authorities."
Perfect Way is another agency to look at along with the Pro filia mentioned.