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What is the difference between Au Pair Plus and regular Au Pair?

Au Pair Plus offers additional educational benefits and flexibilities compared to regular Au Pair, both following strict rules to ensure a safe and legal experience in the USA.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on January 29, 2025
2 min read
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Our conversation today brings an approach about two types of Au Pair programs available for those wishing to live a cultural and professional experience in the United States. The main idea is to clearly present the distinctions between the regular Au Pair and Au Pair Plus, always emphasizing the importance of following immigration laws and seeking information from reliable sources.

In general terms, the regular Au Pair program comprises the standard experience offered by the J-1 visa. It allows young people to live with host families, take care of children, and receive a stipend, as well as have the opportunity to attend educational courses, usually equivalent to six weekly hours of academic credit. This format comes with rules and requirements defined by the U.S. government, such as limits on work hours and participation in cultural activities, ensuring that the program complies with immigration regulations.

On the other hand, Au Pair Plus is a variation of the traditional program that usually adds additional benefits. Among the possible differences, there is more intensive support in the educational part, potentially offering greater flexibility or encouragement to take a course better aligned with the participant”s interests. Furthermore, this model often includes a time extension or other complements aimed at broadening the au pair”s professional and cultural experience. It is important to highlight that the characteristics of Au Pair Plus may vary according to the agency promoting the program, as each can develop its service package with different approaches within what is allowed by the J-1 visa guidelines.

Regardless of the choice, it is essential that interested parties carefully check the terms and conditions offered, ensuring that all legal requirements are met. Seeking specialized companies and paying attention to the details presented in each contract will help avoid unpleasant surprises, scams, or misleading marketing campaigns promising impossible results. Careful guidance helps ensure that the experience is enriching, always respecting United States immigration laws.

Always remember: before making any decision, gathering all necessary information and consulting reliable sources is the best way to move forward safely on this international journey.

Learn more about J-1 Visa

Type
Cultural exchange
Duration
Program duration
2-year rule
Applies in some cases
Processing
2-6 weeks
All about J-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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What is the difference between Au Pair Plus and regular Au Pair?

Au Pair Plus offers additional educational benefits and flexibilities compared to regular Au Pair, both following strict rules to ensure a safe and legal experience in the USA.

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