Host Family FAQs - Application Procedure |
Q. How do I apply?
Q. What is a local coordinator?
Q. Is there a local coordinator in my area?
Q. Can I meet the au pair before I make my final decision?
Q. How long does it take to get an au pair?
Q. Why does it take so long for the au pair to arrive?
Q. Will the application process be quicker if I already know my au pair (a pre-match)?
Q. When will my au pair arrive at my home?
Q. What happens after I send in my application?
Q. How do we choose our au pair? Phone, e-mail?
Q. How do I apply?
A. Fill out an application and submit it with the $250 non-refundable Application and Processing Fee. Request an application or fill out an online Preliminary Application. (top)
Q. What is a local coordinator?
A. Regulations require that each host family live within 1 hour’s travel time from a local coordinator. Local coordinators perform the initial host family interview and provide support for both the host family and the au pair during the program year. (top)
Q. Is there a local coordinator in my area?
A. Please check here to determine our coverage areas. (top)
Q. Can I meet the au pair before I make my final decision?
A. That is up to you. InterExchange does not arrange personal interviews. (top)
Q. How long does it take to get an au pair?
A. It can take anywhere from 8 to 14 weeks from the time your application is received. (top)
Q. Why does it take so long for the au pair to arrive?
A. After being matched with a host family, each au pair candidate must apply and be approved for a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. Federal government visa regulations make for a thorough and lengthy approval process. (top)
Q. Will the application process be quicker if I already know my au pair (a pre-match)?
A. Perhaps by 1 or 2 weeks because you will not need to review au pair dossiers. However, both you and the au pair must follow all Au Pair USA and governmental procedures in order for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa to be granted. (top)
Q. When will my au pair arrive at my home?
A. Your au pair will arrive at your home 4 days after her/his arrival in New York City for the mandatory orientation and training program. (top)
Q. What happens after I send in my application?
A. You will be contacted and interviewed by the local coordinator. The Au Pair USA placement team will begin matching au pair dossiers to your family's application. Several dossiers will be sent to you for evaluation. (top)
Q. How do we choose our au pair? Phone, e-mail?
A. It is required that you make at least two phone calls to the au pair in her/his home country and conduct a telephone interview to discuss your expectations and requirements before making your final decision and confirmation. You are welcome to contact the au pair applicant via e-mail at any time. Tips for choosing an au pair are available in the Au Pair USA Handbook for Host Families and Au Pairs as well as in the Host Family Resource Center.
