Travel, Taxes & More

Travel Outside the US

NOTE: Before planning any international travel, look at your visa (inside your passport). Check to see the expiration date printed on your actual visa. That expiration date printed on your visa is sometimes earlier than your actual end date. You must return at least 1-2 weeks prior to the earlier date. 

Travel Validation is Required to Re-enter the U.S. – Complete the Travel Validation Request Form (To obtain APIA’s signature on your DS-2019 before traveling outside of the U.S.) Note: The travel validation ensures that you are in good standing with the program, it is not formal permission to travel. 

    • You have two options for sending the travel validation request form to Au Pair in America. The form explains the process in detail.
      • Option 1 – Email the scanned form along with your scanned DS-2019 form to APIA as .pdf files, at least 1 week prior to international travel. The email address and complete instructions are on the form.
      • Option 2 – In the regular mail or an expedited service, send the form along with your original DS-2019 to APIA, at least 2-3 weeks prior to international travel. The mailing address and complete instructions are on the form.
        • Check out this blog post for step-by-step instructions on how to send mail in the U.S.

Travel Rules by Program Year

Additional International Travel Information


Public Transportation in Our Area 

Public Transit Apps & Websites

  • DC Metro App – Real-time information on DC Metrorail and bus service
  • SmarTrip App – Add fare and manage your SmarTrip Card
  • Transit App – Free app with all of the local public transportation options in one place.
  • DC Metro Website – Metrorail & bus service to the DC, Maryland, VA area
  • MARC Train Penn Line – A commuter train that goes between Baltimore and DC

Bus Information by County

Circulator Buses (Free or Low-Cost buses in local cities)


 Travel Inside the US

Travel/Tour Companies & Travel Websites

Transportation

  • AAA Bus Safety Reports
  • DC Metro Website – helpful information maps and trip planner for Metrorail and buses
  • FlixBus– trips between Baltimore, Boston, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, and DC
  • Happy-Cars – car rental for 18+
  • MegaBus – trips between Washington, DC, and many destinations up and down the East Coast.
  • Our Bus – trips to Philadelphia, New Jersey Shore, Richmond, Wilmington & more
  • Super Shuttle– transportation to and from airports in DC and all over the US
  • Vamoose Bus – trips between NYC and Bethesda, MD, Arlington, VA, or Lorton, VA

Places to Stay


Departure Home

  • You will be able to request your return flight in your au pair portal.
  • You will receive an email with your flight itinerary no later than 4-5 weeks prior to departure.

Tax, Money & Mail Info for Au Pairs


Other Resources

Fun With Kids

Helpful Links for Host Parents

Money-Saving Deals

Parenting & Childcare Tools