• You need a J1 Cultural Exchange visa. AuPairCare, as your official sponsor, will support you throughout the application process and provide guidance, tips, and help for your consulate interview.

  • The waiting time varies and can change weekly depending on the number of applications. You can check the current waiting times for your city on website of the U.S. Department of State.

  • Yes! US au pairs are required to take college courses during their stay. According to the US Department of State, you must complete courses totalling 6 credits or 60 hours at a local college during your au pair year. If you extend your stay, you will need to take additional courses. College is also a great way to learn something new, experience university life, and meet friends.

  • Yes. If the only available appointments are after your programme start date, you can request an emergency appointment. First, schedule a regular appointment on the embassy website, even if you cannot attend that date. Then the option to request an emergency appointment will appear. 

    Ensure all your application documents are ready (e.g., your DS-2019), as an emergency appointment may be available as soon as the following day. Note that US authorities will not consider your booked flights or personal travel plans.

  • To get your J1 visa, you must attend the nearest US Embassy in person. There is a fee and some paperwork involved, but we guide you through all forms and steps. You will usually receive an appointment within 2-4 weeks, and processing takes around 5-7 working days. Ensure there are at least 5 weeks between matching with your host family and your departure to allow enough time for the visa process. 

    Your flight to the USA is booked by our American colleagues at least two weeks before departure, and all details, including your electronic ticket, can be found in your MyAuPairCare portal.

  • The Au Pair USA programme costs €1,090. This includes 24/7 support, room and board, a weekly stipend of $215, full insurance, and a two-day orientation in New York City at the start of your stay.

  • Yes, many au pairs choose to extend their stay. You can extend your au pair year by 6, 9, or 12 months. You can remain with the same host family if they agree, or apply to join a different family in another region.

  • The programme lasts 12 months, with an optional one-month travel period at the end. You can also extend your stay by 6, 9, or 12 months. If you extend, the travel month will follow the extended period. Additional college credits will need to be earned during an extension.

  • Yes, you can go to the USA as an au pair a second time. Your first au pair year must have ended more than two years ago, and you must have lived outside the US since then. You will also need to meet all the same requirements as for your first au pair year.

  • The au pair USA program fee covers placement with a carefully screened host family, your round-trip flight, and insurance provided by your host family. You’ll also receive training, 24/7 support, your own room, full board, and a weekly stipend of at least $215.

    A major highlight of the USA program is AuPairCare Connect in NYC at the beginning of your program. The two-day orientation is also included in your program fees.

    Additional benefits include paid vacation, funding for college courses, and an optional travel month at the end of your program.

  • Yes. Au pairs must pay taxes on their income in the USA. You need to complete the 1040NR-EZ or 1040NR form by 15 April each year. More information is available in your MyAuPairCare portal under “Resources” in the Au Pair Handbook. Tax laws vary by state, so it is advisable to speak to a tax advisor or your host family. We recommend saving around US$25 from your weekly stipend to cover taxes.

  • In the USA, pocket money is regulated by the government. The host family must pay at least $195.75 per week. At AuPairCare, the weekly stipend is at least $215.

  • The interview usually lasts only a few minutes, although you may have to wait longer for your appointment. Before the interview, your documents will be checked and your fingerprints taken. You will then be asked a few simple questions. Don’t worry – the questions are easy to answer.