While many people use the terms interchangeably, au pairs and nannies are not the same. Here are 8 key differences between the two.
1. The basics
The main difference between an au pair and a nanny is that au pairs are young people from abroad on a cultural exchange program, who live with host families and receive a stipend, while nannies are employed caregivers who are paid a salary.
Au pairs come from overseas on a legal, one-year cultural exchange visa through one of several designated au pair agencies. “Au pair” is actually a French term that translates to “on par” or “equal to,” meaning the au pair lives on equal terms with their host family.
As live-in caregivers, au pairs initially commit to a one-year stay but have the opportunity to extend their time in the U.S. for 6, 9 or 12 months.
Nannies, on the other hand, can be anyone employed to care for a child in their own home.
2. Their working conditions and schedule
An au pair's working conditions are regulated by the U.S. Department of State, so there are rules that must be followed. Notably, the au pair's on-duty hours must be limited to 45 hours a week and 10 hours per day.
Because they live with the family, au pairs can provide flexible coverage and can be scheduled for early morning, evening, or weekend hours. An au pair's schedule can also change from week-to-week with enough advance notice.
Nannies can work part-time, full-time, or even overtime, and they typically follow a consistent schedule week-to-week.
3. The cost
The cost of hosting an au pair can be broken down into two main parts: fees paid to an agency for the program administration and year-round support, and a minimum weekly stipend of $195.75, paid directly to the au pair.
Families should also consider the additional cost of food and housing, car insurance (if their au pair will drive), phone and a phone plan, and a contribution toward their au pair's education requirement (up to $500 annually).
Nanny salaries vary widely and will depend on many factors including whether they are part- or full-time, the number of children in their care, and where in the U.S. they're working.
4. Their childcare experience
The main difference between au pairs and nannies in terms of childcare experience lies in their backgrounds and focus. Au pairs are young adults participating in a cultural exchange program, bringing childcare experience from roles like babysitting, working as a camp counselor, or from their own family life. They may not have professional training but are enthusiastic about working with children while experiencing life in another country.
On the other hand, nannies often pursue childcare as their long-term career path. They may have more extensive experience, particularly with infants or children with specialized needs, and may have more formal training compared to au pairs.
5. The cultural experience
Au pairs offer more than just childcare—they bring cultural enrichment to your family by sharing their traditions, cuisine, and holiday celebrations. They can even help children with language immersion and develop a greater sense of global awareness.
Nannies may or may not introduce cultural or linguistic diversity into your home, depending on their background.
6. Their role in the family
An au pair is not considered an employee but rather an extended member of the host family. In contrast, the relationship between a nanny and a family is typically viewed as that of an employee and employer.
Au pairs create a unique bond that goes beyond traditional childcare. Families opting for au pair services often appreciate this familial connection, as it fosters a sense of trust and collaboration within the home.
7. Their dynamic in the family
Au pairs often become like older siblings, forming a special bond as part of the family. Host families frequently share that this close, familial relationship provides children with a sense of emotional security and trust. Many of these relationships endure for a lifetime, giving children a global network of “big siblings” as they grow into adulthood.
While relationships with nannies can also feel like family, they may sometimes lean toward a more professional dynamic, depending on the arrangement.
8. The visa and work permit requirements
The au pair program is a U.S. Department of State sponsored program, and au pairs arrive to the U.S. with a legal J-1 visa. This visa allows them to stay in the country for one year with the opportunity to extend their time for an additional 12 months. Au pair agencies will handle visa and travel logistics, easing the burden for host families.
Hiring a nanny is generally also a multi-step process and there are different ways to handle their employment. Families can assume this responsibility on their own or enlist the help of a nanny agency or legal service.
Live-in nannies vs au pairs: Choosing the best fit for your family
There are lots of factors to consider when choosing between an au pair and a nanny so it's important to think carefully about your needs and preferences. For families who want more flexibility with their childcare coverage and love the idea of welcoming a new family member, an au pair may be a better fit. For families who need more than 45 hours per week of childcare and want to keep the relationship with their provider more professional, a nanny is probably the better choice.
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