To participate in the au pair exchange program, au pairs agree to stay with host families for a period of one year. Often, au pairs and host families want additional time together. In this situation, repeat exchange and au pair extensions are both options to consider.
Au pair extensions are available for au pairs to continue with current host families—or to find placement with a new host family for a diversified experience in the U.S.
Au Pair in America will submit their request for an au pair extension via SEVIS, but approval is at the sole discretion of the U.S. Department of State.
Repeat participation in the au pair exchange program is another option for more time together, but it requires a bit of planning and lacks the immediate gratification of an au pair extension. As a repeat participant, an au pair may match again with the original host family but only after residing outside of the U.S. for two years following the initial exchange. Working with these time restrictions, au pairs sometimes choose to participate before going off to college and then enjoy a second exchange after graduation—prior to embarking upon their professional careers.
Host families may prefer an au pair that has extended for an additional time period or is participating as a repeat au pair because of the added experience and familiarity with the program. Experienced au pairs on their second year are limited, but may be able to join your family a little sooner than a first-time au pair.
Whether an au pair is on exchange for the first time, on an au pair extension or returning as a repeat au pair exchange participant, host family and au pair requirements and regulations apply. Please contact aupair.info@aifs.com or visit our website for more information.
