2025 Au Pair Safety & Visa Updates For the U.S.

Every year, thousands of young people travel to the U.S. on a J-1 visa to join welcoming host families, improve their English, and experience American culture firsthand. And despite concerns about visa delays or travel uncertainty, the truth is reassuring: au pairs are arriving safely and successfully in the U.S. in 2025, with strong support every step of the way.

From embassy appointments to border entry, the process is running smoothly. No major government alerts are impacting the program, and applicants are getting their visas and traveling without delays. Plus, with AuPairCare doing more than ever to guide you through each step, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and excited about your journey.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know, including the latest visa facts, real stories from au pairs who’ve already arrived, and tips to avoid extra costs or surprises. If you’re wondering whether becoming an au pair is safe and doable in 2025, the answer is yes, and we’re here to show you how. Start your AuPairCare application today.

What’s Happening With U.S. Au Pair Visas in 2025?

If you're preparing to apply to the au pair program in 2025, or you’ve already started, you might feel a little uncertain about what to expect. There’s a lot of online chatter about visa delays, social media screenings, and changing rules at the border. 

But here’s the good news: the J-1 visa program for au pairs is fully active, and AuPairCare is seeing participants move through the process successfully every week. Whether you're waiting for your embassy appointment or packing your bags to fly to the U.S., here’s how things are looking right now.

Embassy Appointment Wait Times (July 2025 Snapshot)

Wait times for embassy interviews vary by country, but most au pair applicants are securing appointments within 2 to 4 weeks. As of July 2025:

• Europe (e.g., Germany, France, Spain): ~15–30 days
• South America (e.g., Brazil, Colombia): ~15-30 days
• Asia (e.g., Philippines, Thailand, China): ~15–30 days

AuPairCare recommends booking your appointment as early as possible once you receive your DS-2019 form, but you shouldn’t have to wait too long. You can keep an eye on the average wait time here (refer to the F,M,J column), and for a much more accurate view, check your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate directly (locate it here). Once you’ve applied for your visa, you can track its progress here. 

J-1 Visa Arrivals: Are Au Pairs Getting In?

Yes, they are. AuPairCare continues to see a steady stream of arrivals across the U.S. from all regions. There have been no reports of increased border scrutiny for properly documented au pairs.

When you arrive in the U.S., you’ll go through a routine inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). While this might sound intimidating, it’s usually a short process, and it hasn’t changed dramatically of late. Here are a few tips to make it smooth:

• Have your documents ready: Passport with J-1 au pair visa, DS-2019 form, program participation letter, SEVIS receipt, your host family’s address and contact details, proof of your return flight, and your au pair agency contact info.
• Answer confidently and honestly: You may be asked about where you’re staying and what you’ll be doing as an au pair in the U.S.A.. Be friendly, answer honestly, and make it clear that you intend to return to your home country after your au pair program is complete.
• Don’t panic about extra questions: Sometimes, officers refer visitors to secondary inspection for additional verification. This doesn’t mean anything is wrong; it’s often random and brief.

We’ll provide pre-departure guidance to make sure you know exactly what to expect (and what to say) at the border.

A Note on Social Media

It’s true that part of the U.S. visa process includes listing your social media handles on the application form, and setting your accounts to public from at least the time you apply for your visa until you arrive in the U.S. But this doesn’t mean your accounts are being “deeply investigated” or that you’ll be denied a visa for posting normal content.

Here’s what we want you to know:

• AuPairCare has not seen any change in how social media is handled for J-1 au pair applicants in 2025.
• None of our applicants have been denied a visa or entry due to their social media activity.
• U.S. embassies and border officers are primarily checking for consistency and general safety, not your selfies or dance videos.
• To prevent delays in your visa processing, we recommend setting your profiles to public when you’re completing your DS-160.
• Be honest and accurately list all your handles from the past five years. If you don’t use social media, be prepared to clearly explain why.

Remember, when you join the au pair program for work experience abroad, you become a cultural exchange participant. Part of that includes setting a good example, being a role model and an ambassador for your country, and acting professionally. You should treat your social media profiles accordingly, and don’t post anything you wouldn’t want a family member or employer to see. 

Latest U.S. State Department News

As of July 2025, there are no new bulletins or policy changes affecting the au pair program from the U.S. Department of State. The J-1 visa category continues to be fully supported and operational, with no active suspensions, travel bans, or special restrictions for au pair applicants looking to work and travel in the USA.

What This Means for You

With so much online chatter about visa delays or border issues, it's easy to feel alarmed. But the current reality is much more reassuring: J-1 visas are being issued regularly, au pairs are arriving smoothly in the U.S., and there are no major changes to this cultural exchange program in 2025. 

Here’s what all this means for au pairs: 

• You can feel confident about your J-1 visa application: Embassy appointments are moving steadily in most countries. If you complete your documents correctly and attend your interview on time, you’re very likely to receive your visa without any problems.
• Au pairs are entering the U.S. without issues: There’s no increase in border scrutiny, and AuPairCare will guide you through exactly what to expect upon arrival. As long as you bring the required documents and stay calm, you’ll be on your way to meeting your host family in no time.
• Don’t stress about social media: Adding your social media handles on the application is routine. You don’t need to scrub your accounts or worry about personal photos. AuPairCare hasn’t seen any denials due to social media; just be honest and consistent.
• You're not doing this alone: From the day you apply to the moment you land in the U.S., AuPairCare is with you every step. Whether you need help booking your embassy appointment or understanding what to pack, you’ll have a team focused on au pair safety and ready to support you.

And for host families: 

• You can expect a smooth arrival process for your au pair: Applicants are moving through the visa process and arriving on schedule. There’s no unusual red tape or restrictions for J-1 au pairs in 2025.
• Encourage early scheduling and flexibility: The earlier your match finalizes and your au pair can schedule their interview, the better. If your au pair is waiting for an appointment, AuPairCare will help them stay informed and act quickly when spots open.
• You’re backed by an experienced support team: For visa concerns, travel questions, or just general uncertainty, AuPairCare is here for you. With over 30 years of experience, we will work closely with you and your au pair to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
• Your family is joining a safe, stable program: The au pair program remains a fully supported cultural exchange initiative with no signs of slowing down. The process is structured, reliable, and designed to ensure a safe and enriching experience for everyone involved.

Real Voices: What 2025 Au Pairs Are Saying

Real au pairs from around the world are sharing their 2025 testimonials, and as you can see, they tend to focus on the amazing cultural experience of living in the U.S., the rewarding aspect of jobs working with kids, and the beautiful memories created with their host family and new friends: 

“My experience with AuPairCare has been truly wonderful. The agency has been supportive and responsive every time I had a question or needed guidance. Both of my LCCs have been absolutely incredible, always attentive, kind, and present throughout my journey. I’m very grateful for the care and dedication they’ve shown. AuPairCare has made me feel safe, supported, and confident during this important chapter of my life.”

• Sofia, AuPairCare au pair, June 2025

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“My experience has been incredible, my family has been welcoming from the beginning, they are giving me all the support to complete the driver's license process, they took me to dinner and I was welcomed as a member of the family, I am loving my moments with the children, they are kind and love company.”

• Jacqueline, AuPairCare au pair, June 2025

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“My experience over these past few months has been very positive, pleasant and fun. I’ve gotten to know my host family a little better and connected with them. At the same time, I’ve built a group of friends and accomplished goals I never imagined I’d accomplish, like driving through Texas.”

• Alee, AuPairCare au pair, July 2025

Cost Clarity & Tips: What to Expect (and How to Save)

Below are the most common questions prospective au pairs ask about fees, budgeting, and how to avoid unexpected expenses. If you’re planning your journey in 2025, this guide will help you stay informed, prepared, and financially ready as you travel and work abroad as an au pair.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for a J-1 Au Pair Visa in 2025?

The main required costs are:

• SEVIS fee: $35 USD
• J-1 visa application (DS-160) fee: $185 USD
• Passport (if you don’t have one yet): ~$50–100 USD
• Travel to the U.S. embassy or consulate: Varies by location
• Medical exams or vaccinations (if required): Varies by country
• Document translation/certification (if needed): ~$20–50 USD

While this gives you a general idea of the visa-related expenses, it’s important to confirm the exact costs for your specific country. 

Are There Any Hidden or Surprise Fees I Should Know About?

No, because AuPairCare is committed to full transparency. All required fees are discussed with you during the application process. You’ll receive a clear list of what you’ll need to pay and when, so you won’t be caught off guard.

To avoid surprise costs or fees, triple-check the document requirements and due dates to avoid delays in your visa application or processing, and plan travel to your visa appointment in advance to keep expenses as low as possible.

And don’t forget, you’ll earn an au pair salary while you’re working in the United States. Because you’re living with your host family, you don’t have to pay rent, and most of your meals are covered too. This means your au pair pay can go toward travel, personal expenses, or even savings.

Is It Safe to Pay Online for Visa Fees and SEVIS?

Yes, as long as you use the official websites:

• Pay your SEVIS fee at fmjfee.com
• Complete your DS-160 visa application through the U.S. embassy’s official site in your country (your AuPairCare representative will give you the right link)
• Avoid using third-party services or unknown websites

What Other Tips Can You Give Me?

The visa process isn’t stressful with AuPairCare on your side, but there are a few things you can do to make it even easier to become an au pair in the United States with AuPairCare: 

• Schedule your embassy interview early: Appointment availability can change quickly! We recommend booking your visa interview as soon as you can to avoid paying higher travel fees or needing to reschedule your flights.
• Double-check your documents: Make sure everything, especially your DS-2019 form, visa photo, and passport, is correct and current. Mistakes in any of your documents can cause delays in your visa processing or extra costs.
• Don’t wait to get a passport: If you need to apply for a new passport, or renew your current one, do it as soon as you start your application to avoid having to pay fees for expedited processing.
• Budget a little extra for flexibility: Don’t book travel or accommodation for your visa interview until you have scheduled the interview, as you might not have your first choice of appointment time and need to adjust your travel around the visa interview.

Most importantly, reach out to us whenever you have a question or concern! We can give you accurate information that’s specific to your country, and all the resources you need for a smooth, safe cultural immersion journey and an incredible time as an au pair in the U.S.

Why Choose AuPairCare?

When it comes to securing a visa and working in the U.S. as an au pair, you need a partner who’s committed to your safety and success. At AuPairCare, that’s exactly who we are! What sets us apart is our commitment to clear communication, personalized support, and a track record of helping thousands of au pairs safely and successfully experience life in the United States.

Real Support You Can Count On

Starting a new life in a different country can certainly come with challenges, but AuPairCare makes sure you never feel alone during this incredible gap year program. With dedicated local representatives in both your home country and the U.S., we’re available to help you through every step:

• Preparing your documents and helping you book your visa appointment
• Getting ready for travel and living with your host family
• Meeting you at our incredible in-person orientation event AuPairCare Connect in New York City
• Adjusting to life in the U.S. with regular check-ins and support
• 24/7 emergency hotline in case you need help at any time

Whether it’s a visa question or something as simple as what to pack, you’ll have a real person you can reach out to for help. When you’re in the U.S., you’ll have your local AuPairCare Area Director for support. They’re based nearby, so you can meet up with them regularly, and they even organize fun events with other au pairs in your region!

Au Pair Safety 2025: Yes, It’s Safe, and Easier Than You Think!

If you're dreaming about becoming an au pair in the U.S. in 2025, there's every reason to move forward with confidence. Despite the online noise or lingering concerns about visas and travel, the facts tell a different story: the J-1 au pair program is running smoothly, embassy appointments are happening, there’s no changes in cost, and thousands of au pairs are arriving safely and settling into life with their host families.

With AuPairCare by your side, you won’t face the process alone. From expert visa guidance to around-the-clock support after arrival, you’ll have a trusted partner every step of the way. Ready for the best year of your life? Start your AuPairCare application today!