How long does it take to match with a Care Professional?
Every family is different and the time it takes to match varies from a few days to a few weeks depending on the family’s requirements and desired arrival date. Apex PROaupair has a constant supply of available candidates ready to interview and match.
How soon can a Care Professional arrive in the U.S.?
Once a family matches, a candidate can typically arrive in as little as five weeks. During that time, the candidate is securing his or her J-1 visa, completing Apex PROaupair's training program and preparing to come to the U.S.
What is the difference between a professional au pair and a nanny?
Professional au pairs are degreed professionals who come to the U.S. on a J-1 visa and work up to 45 hours a week. They are motivated to share their expertise in caring for children in exchange for a weekly stipend and the opportunity to live with a family for up to two years. A nanny is a private childcare provider who works for a family on a live-in or live-out basis. Nannies are typically paid an hourly wage and can be subject to benefits such as overtime, healthcare, Social Security, and payroll taxes.
Does Apex PROaupair have male Care Professionals?
Yes. Male caregivers are an excellent option for some families. Families choosing a male caregiver often have boys and are looking for a role model or ‘big brother’ to join the family. Families who have children with special needs can also benefit from a male caregiver who is able to manage the physical requirements of certain care situations.
How long can au pairs stay in the United States?
Au pairs initially come to the U.S. on a 12-month J-1 au pair visa and can extend for an additional 6, 9, or 12-months, allowing a family to benefit from up to two years of live-in childcare from the same au pair.
Do I need to pay taxes for my au pair?
Au pairs are employees of the host family and receive a weekly stipend paid by the family. Because the stipend is paid for domestic service in a private home, the stipend is not subject to mandatory U.S. income tax withholding. Visit our tax page for host families here.
Do I need to have Workers' Compensation Insurance for my professional au pair?
Yes, we as an agency require that you protect your Care Professional by providing Workers' Compensation Insurance. Usually, your homeowners insurance agent can provide you with information on how to proceed.
Can a professional au pair drive our car?
Yes, if the au pair is required or permitted to drive your car, you will need to add her as a driver to your car insurance policy. The Host Family Service Agreement further details insurance requirements.
What is the educational component of the program?
During their time in the U.S., au pairs are required to complete at least six semester hours of credit at an accredited post-secondary institution. Families agree to provide au pairs with up to $500 towards completing the educational requirement of the program.
Can au pairs drive?
Yes. Almost all au pairs drive which is one of the benefits of the au pair program. They are generally licensed to drive in their home country and travel to the U.S. with an international driver’s permit. Families will need to provide the appropriate coverage under their auto insurance and be prepared to help the au pair adjust to driving in the U.S. They should also check with the local DMV for any state-specific requirements that may exist.
Do au pairs pay a fee to participate in the program?
Yes, au pairs usually pay a fee to participate in the program. Program fees vary depending on the au pair’s country of origin. The au pair program is generally considered an affordable cultural exchange option since the au pair earns a weekly stipend and receives room and board from the host family. Our au pairs consider the program to be an investment in their personal and professional development.
What type of local support does Apex PROaupair provide?
Every host family has a local Area Director who lives within one hour of the family. They meet with the family to conduct an in-home interview, provide an orientation when the au pair arrives, and offer helpful advice and information. The Area Director also conducts monthly check-ins, organizes au pair get-togethers and will assist with any issues that may arise.
What if there is an emergency?
Apex PROaupair maintains a 24/7 support line in the event of an accident or other situation involving the health, safety, or welfare of an au pair. Simply call 1-844-787-6566 and follow the instructions to be connected with an Apex PROaupair staff member who can offer assistance.
