Au Pair USA

The Au Pair program allows participants and host families to carry out a mutually rewarding cultural exchange for up to a maximum period of 2 years.

Participants will be able to continue their education while experiencing everyday life with an American family, while hosts will receive reliable and responsible child care that they will become part of their family.

To participate in the program you must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 18 to 26 years old at the time of applying
• Have an intermediate or advanced level of English
• High school graduate or equivalent
• Have a driver’s license or be willing to get it
• Sign up with an authorized exchange agency. The cost of the program ranges from $650 to $900, depending on the agency you sign up with

It should be noted that the program is very popular among women, but in recent years men have increased their participation in it, commonly called “Bro Pair.”

Since in the program you will be in charge of caring for the children of your host family, sharing your culture and teaching them a little of your language; It is most recommended that you have previous experience in childcare, although in general you will receive a minimum of 32 hours of professional training in childcare before starting.

Remember that you can only work 10h/day or 45h/week maximum, so you will receive a minimum weekly stipend of US$195.75. Said amount has been calculated by the U.S. Department of State based on federal minimum wage ($7.25/hr) with a 40% deduction for room and board provided in exchange for au pair services.

You are also entitled to 2 weeks of paid vacation (10 working days), one weekend per month and one and a half days off per week for every 12 months of work.

Keep in mind that you will also be entitled to a school voucher of up to US$500 to cover the tuition cost of a language course or vocational course of your choice with 6 credits or 60 hours.

Finally, do not forget that you have to pay US$160 consular fee to apply for your J1 visa, but before that you must complete your DS 160 form online here.

It’s time you pack your bags and start your new adventure as an Au Pair! Enjoy 1 whole month traveling around the United States at the end of your program.

If you want personalized advice on this or another international program, you need to present your tax return, or help with the visa process, you can schedule your appointment here.