Many people understand the terms “au pair” and “nanny” to mean the same thing, but they are actually quite different. In the U.S., an au pair refers to a young person from overseas who lives with an American family to care for their children and participate in a cultural exchange. They travel on a legal, one-year visa through a designated au pair agency, and their working hours and conditions are regulated by the U.S. Department of State. Au pairs initially commit to a one-year stay but have the opportunity to extend their time in the U.S. for 6, 9 or 12 months. They are excited to immerse themselves in new culture, improve their English and explore the U.S. The term “nanny”, on the other hand, is a more general term that can be used to describe both professionally trained caregivers and those with less formal experience.

To be a Cultural Care au pair, a candidate must be between the ages of 18 and 26, complete secondary school or the equivalent education, have experience caring for children, be prepared to commit to at least 12 months abroad and have a valid driver's license. As part of their application, au pairs must submit a doctor-issued health certificate and complete a criminal background check. Au pairs must also be willing to embrace the spirit of the au pair program, meaning they’re ready and excited to share their culture, learn about the U.S. and be part of a mutually beneficial relationship with an American family.

In order to become a host family with Cultural Care, families must: 1. Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident; 2. Pass a criminal background check; 3. Provide a private bedroom for their au pair. In addition, families must be willing to embrace the spirit of the au pair program—meaning they are ready and excited to participate in a cultural exchange and invest time into building a relationship with their au pair.

When you decide to host an au pair, it's important to use an agency that is designated by the U.S. Department of State. We ensure State Department regulations are followed and that your au pair arrives with the necessary visa to legally reside with your family for the program term. Beyond that, we do a lot of behind-the-scenes work to make a complicated program very simple and successful for you!

Cultural Care staff members in each recruitment country interview au pair candidates in person, check their references, and make sure all necessary documents are submitted and up-to-date. Au pairs also complete a 32-hour instructor-led orientation program, including adult and pediatric CPR and First Aid instruction from the American Heart Association, and pre-departure readiness workshops in their home countries before they travel to the U.S.

Once a family has found an au pair with the help of our host family app and Matching Specialist team, their local representative will conduct an in-home interview. This time is used to review program regulations, set expectations, and answer questions. Families can also take advantage of our Host Family Preparation Program, which includes live and pre-recorded webinars, to prepare for their au pair’s arrival.

Once an au pair arrives in the U.S., the local representative will check in within 48 hours and perform an in-person orientation during the first two weeks. The local representative will continue to contact both the au pair and host family every month, plan at least two community events per year, and provide support as needed.

Cultural Care office staff in Boston, Denver, and Austin are also available to provide support to host families and au pairs throughout their time on the program, including 24-hour emergency assistance if needed.