Proposed Changes to the Federal Au Pair Program

Last year, the U.S. Department of State introduced proposed regulations for the Au Pair Program. We believe that, if implemented, the proposed rule would have transformed an international cultural exchange program, which has enjoyed nearly 40 years of success, into a domestic labor program.‍

The public comment period witnessed an incredible response with nearly 10,000 comments from diverse stakeholders, showcasing widespread support for this beloved program. AuPairCare, in collaboration with fellow sponsors, worked closely with the Alliance for International Exchange and the law offices of McDermott Will & Emery to submit comprehensive, data-backed comment letters addressing key concerns and offering recommendations for improved regulations. These letters can be reviewed in detail below.

A heartfelt thank you to all who shared their stories emphasizing the value of cultural exchange.

Advocacy works. Building momentum for positive change with voices in action.

In response to these efforts from the au pair community, the Department of State have indicated that they will issue new proposals. It is expected that they will amend or retract the proposed regulations. In addition, the Department is also exploring options for holding listening sessions to help draft these new proposals, which shows their commitment to gathering feedback from the au pair program community.

Given the nature of government bureaucracy, we anticipate an extended timeline before any final decisions are made.

Additionally, the Modernizing the Au Pair Program Act (H.R.9677) has been introduced in the House. This legislation addresses key issues that AuPairCare and the sponsor community have been advocating over the last several years.

The Alliance for International Exchange also has further details on additional au pair advocacy efforts and media stories.

‍Alliance for International Exchange Comment Letter

We remain optimistic that the collective efforts made over the past few months have influenced positive changes. As we await further developments, know that your voices have made a significant impact, contributing to the ongoing dialogue shaping the program's future.

Au Pair Program Highlights

  • The goal of the au pair program is to advance U.S. diplomacy goals by creating meaningful relationships between young people from other countries and Americans.
  • Au pairs receive full room and board, a private bedroom, a weekly stipend, and an educational allowance. They support the host family by living in the home as a family member and providing childcare.
  • The U.S. Department of State requirements include but are not limited to: orientation for host families and au pairs, pre-program home visits, insurance for au pairs, monthly personal contact with a local representative, daily and weekly limitations for on duty hours, responsibilities limited to childcare only, on-call support, educational allowance, and time off.
  • During their required time off, au pairs explore their local communities and destinations throughout the U.S. Au pairs also fulfill an educational component as a requirement of the program.
a facts and data sheet as presented by Eureka Facts

EurekaFacts Survey:Impact of the U.S. Au Pair Program

  • Gaining new or improved personal skills, experiencing life in a different culture, and improving English language skills are all top drivers for participation.  
  • 90% of au pairs rated their experience in the U.S. as excellent or good
  • Participants immerse themselves in a new culture, with 88% of au pairs say they are able to better understand American values (such as freedom and independence).
  • A majority of host families have kept in touch with their au pair(s) after they've completed their program, signaling the lasting positive impact of the program.