What are the requirements to become an au pair in the U.S. through AuPairCare?
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To become an au pair in the U.S. through AuPairCare, you must meet both the U.S. Department of State’s J-1 cultural exchange program requirements and AuPairCare’s specific eligibility criteria. There are around 15 different eligibility criteria, including age requirements, childcare experience, educational background, and health. The complete application process (including J-1 visa issuance) typically takes 2–3 months.
Summary of key requirements
- 18–26 years old
- Secondary school graduate or equivalent
- Proficient in English
- Childcare experience
- Valid driver’s license
- Good health and a clear background check
- Unmarried with no children
- Available for a 12-month stay in the U.S.
- Able to complete the required education component during your program year
What are the basic eligibility requirements?
- Age: 18–26 years old at the time of application
- Family status: Unmarried and with no children
- Education: Secondary school/high school diploma or equivalent (or about to complete it)
- English: Good/proficient spoken English
- Program length: Available for at least 12 months for the au pair year
Health, background, and character
- Health: In good health, confirmed by a medical/physical exam; usually also a non‑smoker
- Background: No criminal record; you must pass a criminal background check
- References: At least two non‑family references are typically required for verification
- Personality: Must be able to fully participate in the program (assessed through interview and personality profile)
How much childcare experience do I need to become an au pair?
- Childcare experience: Prior, verifiable childcare experience; AuPairCare generally expects over 300 hours with at least two separate references
- Infant experience: If you will care for children under age 2, you need at least 200 hours of documented infant childcare experience per U.S. regulations
- Driving: Valid driver’s license and real driving experience, or willingness to obtain one before departure
What are the citizenship and visa requirements?
- Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country that is eligible to participate in the U.S. J‑1 au pair program
- Visa type: You must qualify for and obtain the J‑1 au pair visa, which includes demonstrating non‑immigrant intent and ties to your home country at the embassy interview
Program and education obligations in the U.S.
- Work hours: Agree to work only in childcare tasks, up to 10 hours per day and 45 hours per week.
- Education in the US: You must complete at least six semester hours (or equivalent) of coursework at an accredited U.S. post‑secondary institution during your year.
You can learn more about AuPairCare’s eligibility criteria here.
Can I apply if I'm 27?
No, the U.S. J-1 au pair program requires participants to be between 18 and 26 years old at the time the program begins, so you would not be eligible at 27.
Do I need a driver's license before I apply?
Yes, most families (and AuPairCare) require a valid driver’s license and practical driving experience before you apply, as many au pairs are expected to drive children to school and activities.
What if my English isn't perfect?
Your English doesn’t need to be perfect, but you must be able to communicate clearly and confidently in everyday situations, especially for child safety and understanding instructions.
What is the AuPairCare application process?
To apply to AuPairCare, first confirm you meet the basic requirements outlined above. The next step is to create an online profile with personal info, photos, video, and references, then complete an informal interview with an AuPairCare representative for screening.
Once approved, your profile goes live for AuPairCare’s screened and vetted U.S. host families to view and contact you for interviews. When you and a family agree to match, AuPairCare issues your DS‑2019 so you can apply for the J‑1 visa, attend your embassy interview, complete training, and then travel to the U.S. to start your au pair year.
Au Pair Participant
