When selecting a childcare option for your family, it’s essential to find someone who is reliable, trustworthy, and capable of helping your children grow. Hosting an au pair provides consistent childcare while giving your children the unique opportunity to learn about a new culture and language. The au pair program offers a rewarding cultural exchange experience for both your family and the au pair.

If you’re interested in becoming a host family, the application process is simple, but there are specific qualifications you must meet. Below are the key requirements to qualify as a host family:

Host Family Qualifications:

• U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident: The primary host parent must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and fluent in spoken English.

• Room and Board: Host families must provide the au pair with meals and an appropriate private bedroom (a shared bathroom is acceptable).

• Host Family Application: Submit a completed host family application, including references to verify your family’s suitability for hosting an au pair.

• In-Home Consultation: Complete an in-home consultation with an Au Pair International representative to ensure your family and living conditions are a good fit for the au pair.

• Host Family Agreement: Adhere to the Host Family Agreement and comply with all U.S. regulations for the au pair program.

• Family Integration: Include the au pair as a part of your family. This includes participation in family outings, holidays, and other important family events.

• Location Requirements: Live in one of the regions serviced by Au Pair International. For more details, please call us at 1-888-649-2876 or contact us directly. (Important Note: We are unable to accept applications from host families who reside in Massachusetts.)

• Support for Education: Facilitate the au pair’s attendance at required monthly cluster meetings and help with transportation to and from required educational courses.

• Host Family Day: Attend at least one Host Family Day per year, organized by your local Area Director.

Additional Responsibilities and Privileges for Host Families:

It is at the host family’s discretion to provide other privileges, to assist the au pair with childcare duties, and allow the au pair to have an active and ongoing social life. Although many families require driving as part of the program, providing the au pair with the use of a car is not a requirement. The au pair should take part in the host family’s meals as an equal family member. It is also the responsibility of the host family to provide a method of transportation to assist the au pair in getting to and from required classes. (Important Note: We are unable to accept applications from host families who reside in Massachusetts.)