Official sponsors explained
What is an “official sponsor”?
To join an au pair program in the USA, you must apply for a J-1visa, and to do that you need an official sponsor. These sponsors are selected by the US Department of State to oversee the program and make sure it complies with the regulations.
What does your sponsor do?
As your official sponsor we are responsible for:
Ensuring you meet all the program requirements
Ensuring host families meet all the program requirements
Matching you with your host family
Organising your visa paperwork
Providing training before you travel
Organising your travel to the USA
Giving you support throughout your stay
Ensuring the program follows all US laws and visa regulations
You can't apply for a visa without an official sponsor. So rely on us to guide you through the whole process.
Additional support
More than a visa
We’ll help you get your visa, and we’ll also:
Help you with your application and creating a profile
Get to know you to match you with the right family
Help you prepare with training
Welcome you to the USA at the New York Orientation
Introduce you to other au pairs in your area
Provide a local community counsellor to support you in the USA
We’re with you for the whole journey!
We carefully screen both au pairs and host families to meet all US program requirements.
Before you travel, you’ll complete at least 24 hours of childcare instruction, including 8 hours training in child development and child safety with 4 hours specifically on caring for infants.
We provide you with a local community counsellor who lives within one hour of your host family.
Your community counsellor will meet you and your family within two weeks of arrival to welcome you and help you settle in.
They’ll stay in touch with you every month and organise regular meetings with other au pairs in your area.
They’ll be able to provide advice on colleges and courses for you too.