The J-1 au pair program is a U.S. Department of State cultural-exchange program that allows young adults from abroad to live with an American host family for up to two years. Host families gain full-time childcare support; au pairs earn a weekly stipend, receive room and board, and complete 6 credit-hours of academic coursework. Key program rules: up to 45 hours of childcare per week, a minimum weekly stipend (currently $215.56), and — since 2024 — a $250 Visa Integrity Fee paid directly to the State Department. This hub collects every J-1-specific resource on AuPairSync so you can navigate the program with confidence.
45 hrs
Max hours / week
$250
Visa Integrity Fee
2 years
Max program length
New stipend rules, the $250 Visa Integrity Fee, and proposed hour changes — everything J-1 host families need to act on.
Full cost breakdown for the J-1 au pair program: stipend, agency fees, Visa Integrity Fee, education allowance, and more.
Weigh the pros and cons of extending your J-1 au pair for a second year — visa rules, rematch risk, and relationship dynamics.
Side-by-side cost analysis of J-1 au pair vs. US daycare so you can make an informed childcare decision.
Practical tips for J-1 host families balancing summer camp with au pair hours during school break.
Build a J-1-compliant weekly schedule that respects the 45-hour cap, mandatory rest, and au pair wellbeing.
Step-by-step matching advice for US host families navigating agency platforms and J-1 candidate interviews.
How to initiate a J-1 rematch, what agencies require, and how to protect your family during the transition.
A structured onboarding plan to get your new J-1 au pair up to speed without overwhelm.
Build a family handbook that covers house rules, schedules, emergency contacts, and J-1 compliance basics.
Set up emergency protocols, contact lists, and medical authorizations for your J-1 au pair from day one.
Protect your family from fraudulent au pair listings and agency scams common in the US J-1 market.
Planning an au pair in Germany instead?
Visit our Germany au pair guide hub →AuPairSync keeps schedules, tasks, messages, and child profiles in one secure place — built for J-1 host families.
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