Au Pair USA (J-1) Program
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 weekly stipend that 22 CFR § 62.31 sets as a rate based on 45 hours of child care under the Fair Labor Standards Act (the regulation names no dollar amount, so ask your sponsor for the figure they apply), 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
J-1 Program Guides & Articles
2026 Au Pair Program Changes: What Host Families Must Do Now
New stipend rules, the $250 Visa Integrity Fee, and proposed hour changes — everything J-1 host families need to act on.
What Does an Au Pair Really Cost? A Complete Breakdown
Full cost breakdown for the J-1 au pair program: stipend, agency fees, Visa Integrity Fee, education allowance, and more.
Should You Extend With Your Au Pair? The Host Family Decision Guide for Year Two
Weigh the pros and cons of extending your J-1 au pair for a second year — visa rules, rematch risk, and relationship dynamics.
Au Pair vs. Daycare: The Real Cost Comparison for 2026
Side-by-side cost analysis of J-1 au pair vs. US daycare so you can make an informed childcare decision.
Au Pair + Summer Camp: How to Coordinate Care When Camp Only Covers Half the Day
Practical tips for J-1 host families balancing summer camp with au pair hours during school break.
The Ultimate Au Pair Schedule: How to Plan Working Hours, Days Off & Routines
Build a J-1-compliant weekly schedule that respects the 45-hour cap, mandatory rest, and au pair wellbeing.
How to Interview and Choose the Right Au Pair: A Matching Guide for Host Families
Step-by-step matching advice for US host families navigating agency platforms and J-1 candidate interviews.
Au Pair Rematch: What to Do When It's Not Working Out
How to initiate a J-1 rematch, what agencies require, and how to protect your family during the transition.
Au Pair Onboarding: A 30-60-90 Day Plan for the First Three Months
A structured onboarding plan to get your new J-1 au pair up to speed without overwhelm.
The Au Pair Family Handbook: What to Include (and How to Keep It From Going Stale)
Build a family handbook that covers house rules, schedules, emergency contacts, and J-1 compliance basics.
Emergency Preparedness: What Every Au Pair Needs to Know
Set up emergency protocols, contact lists, and medical authorizations for your J-1 au pair from day one.
Au Pair Scams: Red Flags to Watch for When Matching Online
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 →Manage Your Au Pair Year in One App
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