Au Pair Requirements
If you want to spend a year living and working in the U.S. as an au pair, then you’ll need to meet the program requirements listed below. InterExchange will review your application and interview you to make sure that you:
- Have experience and enjoy caring for children
- Be between the ages of 18 and 26 upon arrival to the U.S.
- Speak conversational English
- Have completed secondary school (high school)
- Commit to spending 12 months in the USA
- Have at least 200 hours of experience caring for children under the age of two if you wish to care for children less than to years old as an au pair
- Have a driver’s license
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Pass a criminal background check
- Be able to provide personal and professional references
Au Pair Duties
Being an au pair is one of the most rewarding jobs you’ll ever have! Every family is different and specific duties will vary; however, below are some common au pair duties.
- Managing daily routines (morning, bedtime, etc.)
- Doing activities with children
- Preparing meals and cleaning up afterward
- Driving children to school and activities
- Helping with homework
- Doing children’s laundry
- Going on special outings and adventures
- Teaching the children about your country and culture
Your responsibilities as an au pair are limited to childcare and related tasks. You are not responsible for heavy housework, pet care, yard work, etc. As a member of the household, you might contribute to small, everyday tasks like washing dinner dishes, but only in a way that is equal to the contributions of other members of the family.
Au Pair Hours and Time Off
As an au pair, you are only permitted to work a maximum of 45 hours per week and no more than 10 hours per day. You will have time off so that you can meet up with friends, explore your community, take classes, or just relax. Program regulations require that you receive the following time off during your program:
- At least 1 ½ days off per week
- One full weekend off per month
- Two weeks (11 days) of paid vacation
