Hosting an au pair provides families with an affordable and enriching childcare solution. Because program fees are charged per family—not per child—you’ll enjoy predictable costs along with the unique experience of welcoming a new culture into your home.
Below is a complete breakdown of program pricing for our Standard and Professional program, along with any additional expenses you may want to plan for. This overview will help you estimate your total au pair cost and choose the option that best fits your family
Au Pair Program Fees
Whether you have infants, toddlers or pre-teens, we have au pair candidates to meet your specific needs. Our Standard and Infant Qualified programs are among our most popular options, and designed for children of all ages!
| Fee | Amount | Due |
| Application Fee | $350 *waived for families matching with candidates currently enrolled with API |
At time of application |
| Yearly Program Fee | **$9,990 (See what discounts you might qualify for here: Host Family Discounts) | Entire balance due 30 days prior to arrival. Click here for Payment Options. |
| Weekly Stipend | **A minimum of $195.75 | Paid directly to your au pair, on a consistent weekly basis |
| Flight Surcharge | ***A flight surcharge may apply, depending on your arrival airport. The exact amount will be determined at the time of travel. | 30 days prior to arrival |
*The application fee is waived only for host families who match with an au pair currently enrolled with Au Pair International. Host families who find a candidate outside the agency (pre-match) will be required to pay the application fee.
**This is the current minimum stipend required by Au Pair International; however, host families and au pairs may negotiate a higher amount during the matching process.
***Flight surcharge ranges from $0-$800
Are you looking for an au pair that has formal professional training? We sponsor many au pair candidates that have post-secondary degrees, or formal training in the teaching and medical professions. This program option is perfect for families that home-school or have special needs children.
| Fee | Amount | Due |
| Application Fee | $350 *waived for families matching with candidates currently enrolled with API |
At time of application |
| Yearly Program Fee | $10,490 (See what discounts you might qualify for here: Host Family Discounts) | Entire balance due 30 days prior to arrival. Click here for Payment Options. |
| Weekly Stipend | **A minimum of $250 | Paid directly to your au pair, on a consistent weekly basis |
| Flight Surcharge | A flight surcharge may apply, depending on your arrival airport. The exact amount will be determined at the time of travel. | 30 days prior to arrival |
*The application fee is waived only for host families who match with an au pair currently enrolled with Au Pair International. Host families who find a candidate outside the agency (pre-match) will be required to pay the application fee.
**This is the current minimum stipend required by Au Pair International; however, host families and au pairs may negotiate a higher amount during the matching process.
***Flight surcharge ranges from $0-$800
Are you currently a host family with Au Pair International? Extending families receive a special discount as a “thank you” for continuing to trust us with your program needs. Please contact us, to receive a quote for your extension year.
Hosting an au pair provides valuable cultural exchange and flexible childcare, but it’s important to plan for several expenses beyond the program fee and stipend. These costs vary by family and situation, but the most common include:
- Education Costs – Up to $500 per au pair, per year toward their required academic coursework, plus textbooks or transportation if needed.
- Room & Board – A private bedroom and meals as part of your household.
- Vacation & Time Off Coverage – The au pair receives a minimum of two weeks of paid vacation per 12-month term (prorated for shorter stays), 1.5 days off per week, and one full weekend off per month—families should plan for alternative childcare during these times.
- Transportation Expenses – Gas, public transit passes, or other transportation support. If the au pair drives a family-owned vehicle, car insurance must be provided.
- Cell Phone & Service Plan – A mobile phone and active service to ensure communication while on duty and for personal use.
- Personal & Wellness Activities (optional, but encouraged) – Enhancements such as a gym membership, community center pass, or other recreational activities to support their health and happiness.
- Cultural & Family Inclusion Activities – Outings, meals, trips, or vacations when the au pair is invited to join your family.
- Gifts & Celebrations – Small gestures such as birthday or holiday gifts to help your au pair feel welcomed and appreciated.