Your year as an Au Pair in the United States may be flying by and you probably don’t want your journey to end. The good news is it doesn’t have to! If you have fallen in love with your Host Family or you want to get to know a new family extending your program could be the perfect next step.
Here’s everything you need to know about extending your Au Pair stay in the U.S. and what comes next when your program is over.
Why Extend Your Au Pair Program
Many Au Pairs choose to extend because they are not ready to leave the new American life they have built. At just a year many Au Pairs feel they are just hitting their stride and need more time to experience everything the U.S. has to offer.
Extending give you the chance to:
- Deepen your bond with your Host Family
- Meet and experience a new Host Family
- Continue improving English skills
- Travel to new cities and explore more of the U.S.
- Gain additional childcare experience
- Build lifelong friendships and connections
- Gain more confidence and independence
Instead of saying goodbye after just 12 months you can continue your adventure and gain more lifechanging experiences.
Your Extension Options
Au Pairs have multiple options to extend their program, giving every Au Pair an option that will work for them. When you extend you still have to follow all the same Department of State regulations as your first year and complete education and cultural event requirements.
6 Month Extension
This option is perfect if you want just a little more time but have future plans waiting for you back home.
- Education requirement: 3 credits or 36 classroom hours
- Cultural event attendance: 2 events
9 Month Extension
This option is a great middle ground to experience more without committing to a full year.
- Education requirement: 6 credits or 72 classroom hours
- Cultural event attendance: 4 events
12 Month Extension
This option is ideal if you want the full experience and the maximum time in the U.S.
- Education requirement: 6 credits or 72 classroom hours
- Cultural event attendance: 4 events
Each option allows you to continue growing both personally and professionally.
Current Family or a New One: What Are Your Choices?
When you choose to extend you have two paths to choose from in regards to your Host Family. You have the freedom to choose what will work best for you.
1. Extend with Your Current Host Family
If you have a strong relationship with your Host Family and both sides are happy, this is often the easiest and most rewarding option. You will continue with your familiar routine and environment while strengthening your bond even further.
2. Find a New Host Family
If you are looking for a change this is a great option for you. This option gives you the opportunity to experience a different part of the United States, meet new people, and adapt to a new family dynamic.
When Should You Decide?
Timing is very important when it comes to extending. Go Au Pair contacts all Au Pairs in their first year about 4 months before the end of their first year with extension options. There is also a 30 day deadline to apply for an Au Pair extension with the U.S. Department of State that cannot be missed.
By contacting Au Pairs with their extension options months in advance this give you enough time to:
- Discuss your plans with your Host Family
- Complete any required paperwork and extension requirements
- Find a new Host Family if applicable
Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition and no important deadlines are missed.
Extension Requirements
To be eligible for an extension there are some requirements you will need to meet.
- Successfully complete your current program year
- Remain in good standing with your agency and Host Family
- Have completed your required education and cultural event requirements before your first year end date
- Follow all program rules and responsibilities
- Commit to completing additional educational and cultural event requirements.
Be sure to check with your Local Are Representative or Placement Coordinator for specific details.
Make the Most of Your Extra Time
If you decide to extend, make it count! You will have more time to complete your American dreams and goals while building upon your relationships.
During your extension you can:
- Visit new states and landmarks
- Create a bucket list of can’t miss American experiences
- Try new foods and cultural traditions
- Document your journey through photos
- Make new friends
- Further your bond with your Host Family
- Continue building your English skills
- Grow more confident
- Make new goals
- Plan for your time after the Au Pair program
Your Au Pair extension is your chance to experience even more of what makes the U.S. unique.
Your End of Program Options
Whether you decide not to extend or you have already extended and it’s time for you to return home you have some options for the end of your time in the U.S. Go Au Pair contacts all Au Pairs with their options to either extend or return home in advance so you can prepare.
1. 30 Day Grace Period
If you successfully complete your Au Pair program you have the option to remain in the U.S. for 30 days after your end date. This means you can take time to travel in the U.S. or spend more time with your American family and friends before returning home.
This option is only available at the end of your program not between your first year and extension. You are not allowed to continue working as an Au Pair during the grace period.
Go Au Pair will assist you with your return travel home and help you plan for your departure at the end of your grace period.
2. Returning Home
If you don’t want to take advantage of the 30 day grace period Go Au Pair will help you with booking your travel back to your home country. We contact all Au Pairs in advance with travel options so you can return home worry free.
Make the Most of What's Next
Extending your Au Pair program is more than just staying longer, it’s about continuing a life-changing experience. Whether you stay with your current Host Family or start fresh in a new location, you will gain more confidence, independence, and unforgettable memories.
If you’re not ready to say goodbye, extending your program might be the best decision you make.
Not an Au Pair yet? Start the process now and don’t miss out on the American life you can build as an Au Pair in the U.S. Click here to Become an Au Pair.
