True Cost of an Au Pair in Canada (2026)

Calculate the true cost of hosting an Au Pair in Canada (2026), including visa requirements, room & board deductions, and hidden fees.

The Basics

Defaults to provincial minimum wage.

The Schedule

Deductions & Setup Costs

Total Monthly Cost:$0.00

How Much Does an Au Pair Cost in Canada?

Hosting an Au Pair in Canada is often seen as a more affordable alternative to a full-time nanny, but it is not "cheap labor." In Canada, Au Pairs are considered employees and are protected by provincial employment standards. This means they must be paid at least the minimum wage for every hour worked.

However, the "pocket money" concept often cited in Au Pair programs is achieved by deducting Room and Board from their gross wages. This calculator helps you determine the actual cash flow by balancing the mandatory minimum wage against the allowable deductions for the housing and food you provide.

Hidden Costs: Flights, Insurance & Agencies

Unlike hiring a local nanny, bringing an Au Pair to Canada involves significant upfront costs that families must budget for:

  • Flights & Travel: While not legally required in all cases, it is standard practice for host families to pay for at least the return flight, and often the arrival flight as well. Budget between $800 and $1,500 depending on the country of origin.
  • Medical Insurance: Participants in the IEC (International Experience Canada) program are required to have health insurance for the duration of their stay. While the Au Pair must hold the policy, many families choose to pay this cost (approx. $500-$1,000/year) as a benefit.
  • Agency Fees: If you use a placement agency to find a vetted candidate, expect to pay a placement fee ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.

Room & Board Deductions in Canada

Since Au Pairs live with you, you are allowed to deduct a specific amount from their pay to cover their room and meals. This is strictly regulated by the province.

In Canada, you cannot simply charge "market rent." You must adhere to the provincial maximums. For example, if the limit is $350/month, you cannot deduct $800 just because you live in an expensive city. This calculator automatically applies the maximum legal deduction for your selected province.

Visa Requirements: The IEC Program

Most Au Pairs come to Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, often referred to as the "Working Holiday" visa. This provides them with an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer.

Important: If you are hiring a caregiver through the TFWP (Temporary Foreign Worker Program) Low-Wage stream, different rules apply. Specifically, you are generally not allowed to charge for room and board, which significantly increases the cost. This calculator allows you to select the visa type to see how it impacts your bottom line.

Is an Au Pair Tax Deductible?

Yes. Just like a nanny, the wages and costs associated with an Au Pair can be claimed as a Child Care Expense Deduction (CCED) on your personal tax return, provided the primary purpose is to enable you to work or study. You must provide the Au Pair with a T4 slip at the end of the year and register as an employer with the CRA.

Data Sources & Last Updated

Tax rates, CPP/EI, and provincial labor rules are from CRA and provincial employment standards for 2026. Data last updated: 2026-01-25. This calculator is for estimation only.