Au Pair in The United States

More about the program

Au pairing in the United States is a regulated cultural exchange program that allows young people to live with an American host family while providing live-in childcare. Au pairs participate in the program on a J-1 Visitor Exchange Visa, which promotes educational and cultural exchange between countries.

During their stay, au pairs become part of an American family, experience daily life in the U.S., and explore American culture and education. The program is designed to offer dependable childcare for families while giving au pairs valuable international experience, personal growth, and educational opportunities.

---

Requirements to Au Pair in the United States

To participate in the U.S. au pair program, applicants must meet U.S. Department of State requirements, which apply to all designated programs:

• Be between 18 and 26 years old at the time of arrival
• Be available for a 12-month cultural exchange program
• Be a secondary school graduate or equivalent
• Have at least 500 hours of childcare experience with non-family members
  • For children under 2 years old: minimum 200 hours with infants/toddlers
• Have good English language skills and achieve at least B1 level on the iTEP English test
• Hold a valid driver’s license
• Be in good health
• Have no criminal record

Benefits for Au Pairs in the United States

Au pairs in the United States receive extensive benefits and support, including:

• Sponsorship of a 12-month J-1 visa
• Minimum weekly stipend of $195.75 (higher pay may be agreed with host families)
• Health insurance
• Private bedroom with a pre-screened host family
• Round-trip airfare to and from the United States
• Two weeks paid vacation and one full weekend off per month
• 24/7 emergency support throughout the program
• Opportunity to extend the program for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months
• 30 days of travel in the U.S. after successful program completion

Educational Opportunities

• Attendance at Au Pair School at the start of the program
• Up to $500 toward tuition for academic credits at an accredited institution
• Access to the Flow Speak App for conversational English practice

Costs Au Pairs Are Responsible For

Au pairs are generally responsible for covering:

• Application fee $140
• Post-matching fee $180
• Post-visa approval fee $180
• SEVIS fee $35
• Embassy fee $185
• Personal expenses
• Any costs not specifically listed as included in the program benefits

Important Information

• Working hours are limited to 45 hours per week and 10 hours per day
• The minimum stipend is calculated by the U.S. Department of State based on federal minimum wage, with a deduction for room and board
• Au pairs are guaranteed two weeks paid vacation
• Obtaining a J-1 visa may be more challenging for applicants from certain countries
• Program options include:
  • Standard Au Pair Program
  • TutorCare Program
  • Au Pair Pro Program