Au Pair Requirements and Qualifications
Becoming an au pair in the United States can be more than just a dream. Are you ready for this amazing opportunity? In addition to loving children and cultural exchange, you need to meet basic requirements from the U.S. Department of State to qualify for the au pair program. If you meet these qualifications, you're likely eligible to begin your year as an au pair! What are you waiting for?
- Previous childcare experience
- Be available for a 12 month position
- Good English skills (Don’t worry; your English will improve)
- A graduate of secondary school (high school) or equivalent
- Be between the ages of 18 and 26 when your program starts
- Be in good health and have no criminal record
- Have a driver’s license
- Meet U.S. entry requirements
Au Pair Roles and Responsibilities
Au pairs in the USA have a wonderful opportunity - in addition to experiencing another culture and gaining international family and friends, they get to earn their stipend by providing care for children. Learn the responsibilities of being an au pair and view a sample au pair schedule:
- Entertaining children and teaching them about your culture
- Preparing children's meals and cleaning up after mealtime
- Bathing and dressing the children
- Packing lunches, helping with homework and taking the kids to school
- Taking children to parks, playgrounds and other activities
- Assist with light child-related household tasks like children's laundry and keeping their rooms tidy
Our American Host Families
America is a melting pot of ethnic and religious backgrounds as well as varied family structures. Just as you have program requirements, there are certain things AuPairCare families must agree to; speaking English in the home, limiting your au pair work to 45 hours per week and only giving you childcare related tasks. AuPairCare families are thoroughly screened and must also pass a criminal background check. Outside of those rules, the family you match with will be just as unique as you are. Learn what you will gain when you decide to become an au pair with an American host family:
A Loving Environment
Parents open up their homes to au pairs to give their kids safe, loving childcare and a new cultural experience. Our host families are excited to welcome you into their lives.
Family Away From Home
Your host children will see you as an older sibling and your host parents will give you guidance and friendship, just like your own parents.
Lifelong Friends
We often hear stories of host parents going abroad to the weddings of their former au pairs, or au pair alumni coming back to the USA for a visit when they become parents themselves. The relationships built at AuPairCare last a lifetime.
