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There are lots of companies on the Internet which offer Au Pair matching services.  However, only agencies designated by the Department of State can issue the visas needed for your Au Pair to enter the United States legally.  Although online matching companies can be a great way to identify potential candidates only designated agencies adhere to the Au Pair Program codes and policies.  Confirm the company you are working with is a designated agency.

Although most agencies operate nationwide the Au Pair program requires a Local Representative live within an hour’s drive of your home.  If the agency does not have a representative in your local area your family will not be able to participate in the program.  Confirm your agency services your local area.

Each agency follows a different pricing model for standard fees, additional fees and discounts. Common standard fees include application fees and program fees with program fees varying depending on the AuPair program type.  Determine exactly what the fees cover, when fees are charged and if payment plans are available.  Additional fees may apply to airfare and can vary depending on the domestic and/or international airport.  Inquire about discounts you might be eligible for.  Also ask if the agency is running any promotions or gives other program discounts.

Every agency must provide a local resource to service host families in the local area.  This person is responsible for supporting your family throughout the program year by doing things such as hosting cultural events for the Au Pairs to attend, regularly contacting all program participants and mediating any problems which may arise.  Ask to speak to your potential local representative to determine what local events are hosted, what the local families and Au Pairs are like, and to determine if you want this person servicing your family for a year.

Each agency has different procedures for the matching and arrival processes for host family and au pair.  When asking about the matching process, find out exactly what you can expect during this critical time.  Determine how applicants will be sent to you, how applicants are selected for you to review, how many applicants you can view at one time and during the entire process.  Determine what support you can expect from your agency and if they can provide you with tips and recommended interviewing techniques.  For the arrival process determine what your options are for when your Au Pair arrives at your home.  Confirm these options are aligned with your family’s schedule and needs.

Just like fees can vary between agencies replacement policies and guarantees are also different.  Find out exactly what you can expect should you and your Au Pair not complete the program.  Consider things like refund vs. credit and “milestones” where replacement policies change.  Determine if there are any costs which are not refundable.

Every agency must uphold to the required Au Pair screening and training set forth by the Department of State.  However, some agencies may offer additional screening or training options.  Ask about additional screening or application features for the Au Pairs.  Au Pair applications and Au Pair Interviews are different amongst the agencies.  Find out what information each agency is asking.  In addition, some agencies offer additional training to Au Pairs when they arrive in the U.S.  This training may or may not include additional certification.  Find out what your options are with each agency.

The Au Pair program was started in 1989.  Some designated agencies started at the same time, and some started later.  Determine how long the agency has been part of the program.  In addition, find out what the company did before working with the Au Pair program and find out what they do in conjunction with the Au Pair program.  Some agencies focus on cultural exchange, work and travel, child care or all of the above.

After discussing the items above you should have a better understanding of the operating procedures which differentiate one agency from another.   All that’s left to consider is your overall impression.  Be sure to work with an agency you believe is trustworthy, knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to helping you have a successful year with the Au Pair program.