In the U.S., the au pair program is a J-1 visa exchange visitor program regulated by the U.S. Department of State—and a cultural exchange program at heart. Its goal is to create strong ties between American citizens and young people from around the world. “Au pair” means “on par” in French, which reflects the kind of relationship an au pair has with their host family: One that is equal, mutually enriching, and caring.
Au pairs travel to the U.S. on a J-1 visa and live with an American host family for 12 to 24 months, providing childcare and becoming a part of the family. While in the U.S., au pairs also take classes, experience American culture, travel, and pursue other personal goals.
The au pair program affords families the flexibility to set their own schedule each week, communicated in advance to their au pairs. While no two families have the same needs, below are a few examples of common weekly schedules.
The lasting international relationships that have been created over more than 30 years are a testament to the program’s continuing success. Families and au pairs often form lasting relationships and stay in touch over many years.
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Cultural Care Au Pair is an official sponsor of this government-regulated program, meaning there are guidelines in place designed to protect both families and au pairs during the exchange year. View the full U.S. Department of State regulations.
According to the U.S. Department of State regulations, au pairs must:
Additionally, Cultural Care requires all candidates to have at least 200 documented hours of childcare
All host families should be committed to cultural exchange and willing to welcome a young person from abroad into their home as a family member.
According to the U.S. Department of State regulations, the parents of host families must:
Additionally, Cultural Care requires host families to have all adults living in the home complete a criminal background check prior to welcoming an au pair to your home. Read more about host family requirements.
Au pairs are entitled to the following benefits, according to U.S. Department of State regulations:
*The contribution towards an au pair’s education requirement is determined by the U.S. Department of State, and families agree to comply with any increase that is issued.
1The U.S. Department of State has determined that au pairs are required to receive from their host families at least $195.75 per week. Host families and au pairs are free to discuss and agree to compensation higher than the required stipend minimum; however, this cannot be in exchange for the au pair exceeding the regulatory limits on working hours (10 hours per day; 45 hours per week) or performing duties beyond childcare-related tasks. The State Department formula is based on the federal minimum wage and applicable room and board credits. Any change in the federal minimum wage or the applicable credits will result in an increase in this minimum stipend amount. Please note, should a family extend beyond the first year, they would be responsible for the stipend for each week of the extension term.
2This contribution towards an au pair’s education requirement is determined by the U.S. Department of State, and families agree to comply with any increase that is issued.