Requirements to Host an Au Pair

You know all about the stringent screening process to become an au pair with Au Pair in America, but what about requirements to host an au pair? 

Let’s start with the basics.

Host families who join the Au Pair in America program must: 

• Live in one of the many “cluster” areas in the United States serviced by an Au Pair in America Community Counselor (call us at 1-800-9-AU-PAIR to confirm coverage area) 
• Provide an appropriate private room and three meals per day for the au pair 
• Be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents 
• Pass a background check, which includes a family interview and criminal background check for all adult members of the household. 

Host Family Agreement 

Every host family must adhere to program regulations set by the US Department of State. 

• A schedule for the au pair’s childcare hours within program regulations – this means a maximum of 45 hours per week, if participating in the standard au pair or Extraordinaire programs; 30 hours per week for the EduCare program. The scheduled hours may not exceed 10 hours per day or extend over more than five and a half days.  
• Host families ensure the au pair receives 1.5 days off each week, a full weekend off each month, and 2 weeks paid vacation over the course of the match year. 
• A required minimum weekly stipend to be paid to the au pair, based on the program option selected. 
• Host families facilitate the au pair’s requirement to enroll in and attend an accredited post-secondary institution to fulfill her Educational Component requirement.

Cultural Exchange and Program Engagement

Cultural exchange is the heart of the au pair program. Host families and au pairs are required to participate in regular activities offered by Au Pair in America. These programs provide our participants with support and resources to ensure they have a meaningful cultural exchange experience.  

Host family requirements for these activities include:  

• Providing opportunity (and transportation) for the au pair to attend regular monthly “cluster” meetings with the Community Counselor 
• Participation in an annual host family workshop planned by your Community Counselor 
• Maintaining monthly contact with the Community Counselor 
• Including the au pair whenever possible in family meals, outings, holidays and other events 

Starting the process of becoming a host family with Au Pair in America is easy, and we provide you with the support and information you need to make this important decision.

Think you are a great fit and can meet the requirements to host an au pair?