The Au Pair program is an excellent opportunity for cultural and educational exchange, and many participants have questions about how the work hours are distributed. One common question is whether the Au Pair can work on weekends.
According to the J-1 Au Pair visa program guidelines, the weekly workload should not exceed a certain number of hours (usually up to 45 hours, depending on the specific program) and it is mandatory that the Au Pair has at least 1.5 consecutive days off each week. This means that activities during the weekends can indeed take place, provided they are included within the allowed hours limit and do not compromise the minimum rest period required. For example, if the family chooses to distribute the work hours throughout the week, including some activities on Saturday or Sunday, it is essential that the Au Pair still enjoys the rest periods mandated by the program.
It is important to emphasize that both the Au Pair and the host family must strictly comply with the program rules and the United States immigration laws. This ensures not only the smooth running of the exchange but also the maintenance of the Au Pair”s legal status. Whenever there are doubts or changes in the work routine, it is advisable to seek specialized guidance, either through the agencies designated by the program or consulting reliable sources within immigration law.
Remember: following the rules and regulations is essential to avoid legal issues and ensure a positive and enriching experience. Avoid falling for promises of miraculous results or guidance from uncertified sources, as compliance with immigration laws is fundamental to maintaining your status and making the most of the exchange opportunities offered by the J visa.
Learn more about J-1 Visa
- Type
- Cultural exchange
- Duration
- Program duration
- 2-year rule
- Applies in some cases
- Processing
- 2-6 weeks
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
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.