Hiring an au pair means bringing a live-in caregiver into your home—a decision that demands thorough vetting, not shortcuts. A background check and a few interviews aren't enough; you need a structured screening process that covers childcare experience, cultural fit, reliability, and references. This guide walks you through every step to hire confidently.
Start With Verified Agencies or Direct Placement
Not all au pairs come through the same channels. Agencies handle background checks, visa documentation, and insurance; expect to pay $8,000–$16,000 annually for this convenience and protection. Direct placements through websites cost less ($3,000–$8,000) but place screening responsibility squarely on you. If you go direct, use platforms that verify ID and conduct basic checks. Services like Mercoly help you compare and find trusted au pair placement providers in one place, saving time when evaluating your options.
Conduct a Thorough Background Check
A criminal background check is non-negotiable. In the US, use the FBI's fingerprint-based clearance or state-level checks; international candidates require checks in their home country plus an FBI International Records Check (Form I-77). Confirm the applicant's driving record if they'll transport your children. Ask for police clearance letters from their home country—most au pairs can obtain these within 2–4 weeks. Never skip this step; it typically costs $50–$200 but protects your family irreplaceably.
Verify Childcare Experience and References
Request a detailed resume or CV that includes:
- Ages of children previously cared for
- Duration of each childcare position (months/years)
- Specific responsibilities (meal prep, homework help, bedtime routines, special needs)
- Any certifications (CPR, first aid, early childhood education)
Contact at least three references directly—don't rely on written letters. Ask open-ended questions: "Tell me about a challenging situation and how she handled it." "Would you rehire her?" References should ideally be from families who employed her for 6+ months. Skip candidates who can't provide three solid references.
Assess Language Proficiency
Au pairs must communicate clearly with your children and understand instructions. If English isn't their first language, evaluate their spoken fluency during video interviews. Ask them to describe their childcare approach in detail. Some families prioritize native-speaker au pairs; others value cultural exchange over fluency. Be realistic: an au pair struggling with English will struggle to handle emergencies or homework help.
Interview for Values and Discipline Philosophy
Your screening must uncover how the candidate approaches childcare fundamentals:
- Screen time rules: How much TV or device time would they allow?
- Discipline: What's their approach to tantrums or misbehavior?
- Routines: Can they enforce bedtimes, meal times, and homework schedules?
- Safety: How would they handle a child injury or medical concern?
- Lifestyle expectations: Are they comfortable with your family's activities, dietary preferences, or house rules?
Ask behavioral questions: "Describe a time a child didn't listen to you. What did you do?" Listen for patience, problem-solving, and alignment with your parenting style.
Check Health and Vaccination Records
Request proof of:
- Current vaccinations (COVID-19, flu, MMR, tetanus)
- A recent medical exam confirming fitness to work
- Confirmation of any dietary restrictions or allergies
Some families ask for a TB test, especially if the au pair is international. Clarify who covers health insurance—au pair programs typically require visa-sponsored insurance, but direct placements may shift this cost to you.
Trial Period and Gut Check
Hire with a written agreement specifying a trial period (typically 4–8 weeks). Include clear expectations for hours, wages, days off, and performance metrics. Most placements allow you to request a replacement au pair if the fit is wrong early on. Trust your instinct; if something feels off after thorough vetting, it's worth addressing or reconsidering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a full background check take for an international au pair? A: Expect 3–6 weeks for an international check, including FBI clearance and home-country police records. Agencies typically manage this timeline; direct placements require you to coordinate.
Q: What's a reasonable salary range for an au pair? A: US au pair wages typically range from $195–$370 per week depending on experience and location, plus housing and food. Agency-placed au pairs usually receive $250–$370 weekly plus full room and board.
Q: Can I require CPR or first aid certification before hiring? A: Yes—many families do. If the candidate lacks certification, you can make it a condition of hire and cover the cost (approximately $100–$150) or require they obtain it within their first month.
Start your vetting process today by documenting every candidate's background, references, and interview responses.