Country guide
Au pair in the USA: J-1 program guide
The U.S. au pair route is a regulated J-1 exchange visitor program. Families and au pairs should use official sponsor and Department of State guidance before making commitments.
What to confirm early
- Use a Department of State-designated sponsor for the J-1 au pair program.
- Confirm eligibility, program duration, childcare hours, weekly stipend, education requirements, and local support rules with the sponsor.
- Discuss duties, schedule, time off, accommodation, transport, insurance, driving, and household rules before matching.
- Do not rely on informal arrangements that bypass J-1 program requirements.
Questions for a first call
- Which sponsor will manage the placement?
- What will a normal weekday and weekend look like?
- What childcare experience is expected?
- What support is available if the match does not work?
Official source
Read the official BridgeUSA au pair program page: j1visa.state.gov/programs/au-pair.
Browse current host family profiles in the USA or au pair profiles. Perfect AuPair does not replace the required designated sponsor. Use the interview guide to prepare questions before contacting a sponsor.