Live as an au pair in America

Care for children. Live like a local. Develop valuable skills. 

Life as an au pair

Thousands of au pairs love life in the USA - you can too!

Live like a local and make lifelong friendships in a supportive program.

Caring for children, exploring new places, learning about American culture…being an au pair is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grow personally and professionally.

APIA

"Being an au pair in America gave me the opportunity to discover a new country whilst doing something I love!"

Hannah Cox, 21

Why APIA: how we help

Support for au pairs, before you leave and after you arrive

Au Pair in America provides you with support at every stage:

Sally, 19

Au Pair in Texas

Natalie, 21

Au Pair in Utah

Jane, 22

Au Pair in Ohio

Application Help: Step-by-step support from our team and partners.

Visa Support: Clear guidance to help you apply for your visa.

Pre-Departure Training: Advice and practical tips before you leave.

New York Welcome: Start your time in the USA with other new au pairs on a three-day orientation.

Ongoing Support: Your local community counsellor is available in the USA for help and support.

Peer Support: Meet other au pairs at regular events and meetups in your local area in the USA.

Supporting your future dreams - Already been an au pair? We have a returner program with a $0 program fee!

Eligibility requirements

Do you have what it takes to be an au pair?

Before you start your adventure, here’s what makes a great au pair:

Age: 18-26 years old.

Childcare experience: Have at least 200 hours of recent, non-family childcare experience.

Education: Completed high school or hold equivalent secondary education qualification.

Driving Licence: Have a valid driving licence, and have a clean driving record.

English proficiency: Comfortable speaking English to a good standard (B1-B2 level or higher).

Health & Background Screening: Proof of good health, and good childcare references.

Criminal Background Screening: Have a clear criminal record.

Marital & Dependent Status: Must be single, with no spouse or dependents.

Program Commitment: Willing and able to live with a host family in the United States for 12 months.

EN - Best Overall Au Pair Agency 2021, 2022, 2023 (Verywell Family)

The original au pair program

Au Pair in America created the first U.S. government-approved au pair program in 1986.
Ever since then, we have been the trusted leader in connecting au pairs with carefully screened host families. Our program provides a reliable, structured and trusted way for you to work and live in America.

Recognised Best Overall Au Pair Agency Award 2023 (Verywell Family)

We place au pairs from over 60 countries each year

Since we began, over 120,000 au pairs have experienced our program

Official J-1 Visa Sponsor – We guide you through the legal visa process

Programs

What’s included?

Weekly allowance paid by your host family

Private room and all meals included

$500 toward college classes of your choice

Return flights to and from the USA

Two weeks of paid vacation and an extra month to travel after your program ends

Sponsorship for your J-1 visa

Real stories

Life as an au pair, by au pairs

Be inspired by the stories of au pairs from around the world.

Social Media

Follow us for real-life stories into au pair life and connect with our community

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Events

Join our events to connect with the team and explore the programs we offer

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Blog

Get inspired with practical advice to guide you through your au pair journey

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Download the app

Your au pair journey, simplified!

Apply quickly and easily

Track your progress every step of the way

Match with host families instantly

Receive live updates on your journey

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Start your au pair journey

Apply today

Start your au pair journey! Check if you qualify and take the first step toward an amazing experience.