This is a post about how to be an au pair in the USA.
Living and working as an au pair in the US is an exciting opportunity to experience American culture while gaining invaluable skills. Becoming an au pair offers the chance to live with a host family and immerse yourself in a new way of life. This guide on how to be an au pair in the USA will walk you through the process step by step so you can start your journey with confidence.
Understanding the Role of an Au Pair
An au pair is more than a nanny The role is a cultural exchange that allows you to live with a host family in the US and take on childcare duties while experiencing a new country and learning a new language You are not a full-time employee and your working hours are limited in order to provide you with time to study, travel or simply enjoy life in your new home An au pair typically receives free room and board along with a weekly stipend that covers personal expenses
Step 1: Research Your Options
To be an au pair in the USA you need to go through a government-approved agency. That’s the only way to apply for the J1 visa granted to au pairs.
It’s hard to say what agency is the best as there are so many variables. My advice is that you take your time to speak to different ones. Different agents within the same agency will also make a difference! Who’s the one that seems more knowledgeable, patient and caring? Who understands the real rollercoaster experience of being an au pair? Who understands that not all host families are good? Do thorough research on different agencies and read reviews from current and former au pairs.
Main Au Pair Agencies:
Au Pair Care (APC)
Au Pair in America (APIA)
Cultural Care
You can usually find Cultural Care offices in different countries. However, with APC and APIA, they usually partner with local travel/study abroad agencies. You can check your local representative on their respective websites.
Another thing to take into consideration is that different agencies sometimes have different programmes. For instance, Au Pair in America offers the standard Au Pair programme but also Au Pair Extraordinaire and Educare.
Au Pair Extraordinaire
It’s for women who have extra experience with children or perhaps a recognised qualification in childcare. This programme offers a higher au pair salary due to the higher level of childcare experience the au pair candidate has.
Educare
This one is for those who would like to focus more on their studies. The au pair works fewer hours and earns a lower stipend. However, they have longer study hours and a higher contribution from the host family towards their studies.
The research phase is essential so that you know what to expect and can choose the best programme for your goals.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
Once you have chosen a programme start preparing your application. It is important to have a well-crafted application that highlights your experience with children if any your personality and your motivation for becoming an au pair.
Write a compelling personal statement that explains why you want to be an au pair and how you plan to contribute to the host family. But also talk about your objectives, your dreams. After all, you’re not moving across the globe and leaving your family and friends for 1-2 years only to look after kids. You’ve got your stuff too! Include details about your interests such as a love for travel and cultural exchange as this makes your application more appealing and let’s the host family get to know you more.
Gather all the necessary documents before submitting your application. These include some of the below:
Requirements
- be between 18 and 26 years old
- be unmarried and have no children
- be able to speak English at least on an intermediate level
- have a high school diploma or equivalent
- have a valid driver’s license
- be in good health
- pass a criminal background check
- be available for a minimum of 12 months
- have proven experience with childcare (usually about 200 hours)
If you don’t have one or more of these, most of them can be obtained. And now that you know what you need, you can go after it and get ready to apply!
Step 3: Interviews and Selection Process
After having your application approved, your profile will go online for host families to see. Some of these families will likely invite you for a chat to get to know you.
Before you start chatting with families, I STRONGLY recommend that you have a chat with yourself. Think about why you want to be an au pair. What would you like to get out of it? Where would you like to live? How many kids are comfortable with? What kind of family dynamics can you live with or not? Have a list of negotiable and non-negotiable. For instance, would you accept a family with more than 3 kids? Would you be comfortable living in very remote, rural area where you need to drive long distances to find a simple shop?
The same way families are interviewing to find the right au pair for them, you should find the right fit for you. As an au pair in the USA you will be working around 45 hours per week. And your work and home will be the same environment! It’s important you choose wisely.
Here’s an extensive list of questions you should be asking your potential host family in order to get to know them.
Prepare for the interview by practising answers to common questions such as why you want to be an au pair. Think about your strengths and be honest about any challenges you might face. Remember that cultural fit is as important as qualifications.
During the interview show enthusiasm and openness and be prepared to discuss your reasons for wanting to be an au pair.
The selection process may take some time so remain patient. Try not to rush into things you don’t have to.
Step 4: Visa and Documentation
For non-US citizens who wish to work as an au pair in the USA it is necessary to get a J-1 visa. This visa is specifically designed for cultural exchange programmes and allows you to stay in the US for a period of 12 months. When the end of your year is approaching, the agency will get in touch with you to see if you’d like to extend it for a further 6-12 months. You may extend with the same family or a different one.
The agency will guide you through the visa application process and provide the required documentation such as the DS-2019 form. It is essential to carefully follow the instructions provided and ensure all paperwork is in order.
The visa process may require an interview at the US embassy so prepare for that by gathering all necessary documents and practicing potential questions
Additionally, ensure that your health insurance meets the requirements of the programme. The US healthcare system can be expensive so having proper insurance is a must. This requirement is non-negotiable and is part of the overall commitment to your well-being while living abroad. Make sure you talk to the agency in-depth about what’s covered and what isn’t.
Step 5: Arriving in the US and Settling In
Once your visa is approved it is time to make travel arrangements and prepare for your new adventure. Arriving in the US can be both exciting and overwhelming. Make sure you have a clear plan for your first few days.
There is often a waiting period before you receive your stipend or have the chance to fully settle in. Use this time to get to know your host family better and learn about the local area. Take advantage of free resources offered by your agency such as orientation sessions or local meet ups.
Building a routine early on is essential! It is important to build a life outside your working hours and balance work, study and leisure. Keep track of your expenses from day one so you can adjust your budget accordingly. And don’t forget to talk to your agency about taxes so you can be prepared when the times comes for paying it.
Remember that adapting to a new culture takes time and it is perfectly normal to feel homesick in the beginning. There’s no set time for adaptation. Everyone will have a different experience so please try hard not to compare yourself to your au pair friends (in all areas!).
For further help with your au pair year, check out our list of essential tips to make your au pair life easier.
Embracing Cultural Exchange and Personal Growth
Living as an au pair in the US offers an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange. You will learn about American customs and traditions while sharing your own culture with your host family. This reciprocal experience can lead to lasting friendships and a deeper understanding of different ways of life. The challenges you face will contribute to personal growth and greater self-reliance.
Taking part in local community events and language classes can speed up your integration and help you feel more at home. Building a support network is key so do not hesitate to join expat groups or participate in activities organised by your agency. The more involved you become the faster you will adapt to your new surroundings.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to be an au pair in the USA is a bold step that comes with many rewards and challenges. The experience is a true rollercoaster journey of cultural exchange, personal development and a lot of learning. Whether you are looking to explore a new country, improve your language skills or simply step out of your comfort zone, the role of an au pair can open up a world of possibilities.
By following these steps and preparing thoroughly you can navigate the process with confidence and make the most of your au pair experience. Remember that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Embrace the adventure and enjoy the journey!
Questions?
Are you looking at being an au pair in the USA? Or are you more of an au pair in Europe person? I was an au pair in both! Feel free to ask me anything in the comments below!
This was a post about how to be an au pair in the USA.