Resources
The things every au pair looks up late at night — visa, taxes, driving, host family conflict, feeling homesick, travel. All in plain English.
Renters and travel insurance for au pairs
What is covered by your program insurance and what is worth adding.
Your first 30 days as an au pair
A simple, friendly checklist to help you settle in with your host family and neighborhood.
J-1 visa basics every au pair should know
The important rules of the J-1 au pair program in plain English.
Opening a US bank account without an SSN yet
Which banks let J-1 au pairs open an account before the SSN arrives, and what to bring.
Getting your driver license state by state
How to swap a foreign license or take the road test in each state — the short version.
Homesick? You are not alone.
What helps when you miss home, and when to ask for extra support.
Finding your 6 credit hours of classes
Cheap and free ways to complete your J-1 education requirement — online and in person.
Extending or transitioning after your au pair year
Extension (6/9/12 months), the 30-day travel period, and coming back on a different visa.
Understanding your J-1 visa and DS-2019
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is what makes your au pair year possible. Here's what your DS-2019 actually means, and how to keep it valid.
US taxes for au pairs — what you actually owe
Au pairs owe federal income tax on their weekly stipend. Here is a plain-English guide to filing without stress.
Getting a US driver's license as an au pair
Most host families expect you to drive. Here is how to convert your foreign license or get a US one.
When things go wrong with your host family
Almost every au pair has a hard moment. Here is how to handle it, and when to call your Local Care Consultant.
Homesick? You are not alone.
Homesickness hits almost every au pair, usually around month 3. Here is what helps.
Traveling on your J-1 visa
Where you can go, what paperwork you need, and how to avoid getting stuck at the border.
Extending for a second year
The au pair program allows a 6, 9, or 12 month extension. Here is how the process works.
Sending money home safely
Comparing Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and just using your home bank account.