How to Get Started and Become an Au Pair in the USA

Your journey to becoming an au pair starts here. It’s easy to get started. Simply fill our short information request form, and an InterExchange representative in your home country will contact you. Before you apply, make sure you meet all of the requirements for becoming an au pair:

  • Are you between the ages of 18 – 26?
  • Can you speak, write, and understand English?
  • Do you have experience working with children?
  • Are you willing to commit to at least 12 months as an au pair?
  • Can you obtain an international driver’s license?
  • Does your country have an Au Pair USA partner office?

If you answered yes to all of those questions, then congratulations! You’re ready to get started.

Here’s how the process works:

  1. Fill in our information request form
  2. Complete an Au Pair USA application
  3. Participate in an interview at the local partner office in your country
  4. Learn if you’re accepted. If so, we begin the matching process
  5. Participate in phone interviews with host families
  6. Agree to be the au pair for a host family
  7. Work with Au Pair USA to obtain your visa and make travel arrangements

The experienced staff of Au Pair USA is here to help you during your entire participation with our program.

Before You Leave

If you have any questions about the program before you come to the US, talk to the representative in the local partner office.

When You Arrive

Once you arrive in the US, you’ll enjoy a 5-day Orientation and Training Program in New York City before meeting your host family. You’ll not only receive important child care and safety training, you’ll also be able to start adjusting to life in the United States. Plus, you’ll have time to explore and enjoy New York City.

During Your Stay

While you are staying with your host family, you’ll have the support and assistance of an Au Pair USA local coordinator. Your local coordinator will hold monthly meetings and activities for you and other au pairs in the area. And she’ll also be available to help you with any issues or concerns you may have during your stay. Our staff in New York City is also available 24 hours a day in case of emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions about Being an Au Pair