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Key takeaways
Au pairs in the U.S. must be between 18 and 26 per U.S. Department of State guidelines.
The age requirement applies at the time of arrival—au pairs who turn 27 during the program can still complete their full year and extension.
These age limits are set to support the program’s focus on cultural exchange and education for young adults.
When choosing an au pair age can offer helpful context, but personality, experience, and overall fit are what truly shape a successful match.
Hosting an au pair can be an incredible way to access affordable, flexible childcare while offering a young person from across the world the chance to experience life in the U.S. But if you’re exploring this option for the first time, you might be wondering: what’s the minimum and maximum age for an au pair in the U.S.? Is there a legal au pair age limit in the USA?
The short answer is yes. The U.S. Department of State has clear age requirements for participants in the J-1 visa au pair program. In this post, we’ll break down what those limits are, why they exist, and how they help ensure a safe, successful experience for both host families and au pairs.
Is there a minimum age to be an au pair?
The minimum age for au pairs in the U.S. is 18 years old. This requirement ensures that participants are legal adults and mature enough to care for children in a full-time, live-in capacity. Having a minimum age for au pairs in the U.S. also aligns with international guidelines that consider 18 years old the appropriate age for work and travel.
What is the official age range for au pairs in the U.S.?
To qualify for the au pair visa age requirements, candidates have to be between the ages of 18 and 26 at the time of their program start. It’s worth noting that candidates can often begin the application and matching process at age 17, but must be at least 18 before they travel. On the other end of the spectrum, candidates who are 26 when they enter the U.S. are still eligible, even if they turn 27 shortly after arrival.
The minimum and maximum age for an au pair in the U.S ensures that all participants meet the criteria set forth by the U.S. Department of State au pair rules. These rules are in place to help host families connect with au pairs that are in the right stage of life for this experience.
Why does the U.S. limit au pair ages?
The au pair age limit in the USA exists because the program is designed as a cultural exchange opportunity. The goal is to bring young adults to the U.S. to live with a host family, improve their English, take college classes, and experience American life firsthand. While other countries may allow au pairs up to the age of 30, the minimum and maximum age for an au pair in the U.S. remains aligned with the Department of State’s original intent: providing an immersive, educational, and culturally enriching experience for young people from around the world.
Can you be an au pair after 26?
No, you cannot be an au pair in the U.S. if you’re over 26. However, applying to be an au pair at 26 is allowed—as long as candidates haven’t turned 27 before their arrival in the country. Au pairs are allowed to complete their full program year (and their optional extension year) even if they’ve turned 27 while on the program.
If you’re older than 26, there are still plenty of options to enjoy an international experience. Many countries in Europe, such as Germany and the Netherlands, allow au pairs up to the age of 30. You could also consider enrolling in another kind of work exchange program or joining a study abroad initiative.
Why host families care about age—maturity vs. flexibility
In online discussions, you’ll find some families specifically looking for older au pairs. Why? Because age often reflects life experience.
Older au pairs (ages 23–26) are more likely to have experience living independently, may have more of a driving history, and may bring added maturity to the role, especially if caring for infants or juggling complex family schedules.
That said, younger au pairs (ages 18–20) can be fantastic caregivers, too, bringing a sense of fun, enthusiasm, and adaptability that many families love.
Of course, these are broad generalizations and don’t define any individual au pair. Every candidate brings their own unique background, personality, and strengths, regardless of age. And ultimately, there’s no “best” age—it all comes down to finding the right match. Families should prioritize lifestyle compatibility over age when choosing an au pair.
How age impacts the visa & program experience
The J-1 visa au pair program allows for one year of participation, with the option to extend up to an additional 12 months. As mentioned, the minimum and maximum age for an au pair in the U.S. applies at the time of arrival, not at the time of application. That means that, in most cases, candidates can begin the application and matching process at 17 years old, as long as they turn 18 before entering the U.S. In some cases, au pairs may need to wait until they’re 18 to attend their visa appointment. However, according to the U.S. Department of State, the only official requirement is that au pairs be 18 before entering the country.
The same goes for the maximum age limit. Au pairs must be 26 or younger at the time of their arrival in the U.S., but they’re still eligible to complete the full program year and optional extension if they turn 27 during their time in the country.
FAQs about au pair age limits in the U.S.
Can I apply to be an au pair in the U.S. at 27?
No. You must apply and arrive in the U.S. before your 27th birthday. If you’re already 27, you’re no longer eligible to participate in the U.S. au pair program.
What happens if I turn 27 during the program?
That’s totally fine! The maximum age for au pairs in the U.S. is 26 at the time of arrival, so as long as you've started your program year in the U.S. before you’ve turned 27, you can complete the full program term (including any extensions).
Can families request older au pairs (30+)?
The maximum age for au pairs in the U.S. is 26—a requirement enforced by the U.S. Department of State. Families who want older caregivers may consider hiring a nanny or exploring other childcare options.
Why do some countries allow au pairs up to 30?
Au pair age restrictions vary by country—each country designs its au pair program depending on its visa policies and cultural goals. In places like Sweden, Australia, and the Netherlands, candidates can often be au pairs up until the age of 30. The U.S. au pair program is built specifically as a cultural exchange opportunity for young adults.
Do older au pairs get matched more quickly?
Not necessarily. Some families may only consider older au pair options for added maturity or driving experience. However, each match is personal and depends more on fit than age.
What are the pros and cons of hosting a younger vs. older au pair?
Younger au pairs often bring energy and a fun-loving spirit. Older au pairs may offer confidence, reliability, and life experience. These traits can be helpful reference points, but it’s important to remember that they are generalizations—there are plenty of younger au pairs who are incredibly mature and many older au pairs who are playful and go-with-the-flow.
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