Protect yourself

IAPA is against any direct match between au pair and host family, always use a legally registered au pair agency.

Newspaper, internet advertisements or one of the many web-based matching services may appear to be acceptable and inexpensive alternatives for securing an au pair placement.

There are, however, potential risks in arranging a placement in this manner. 10 potential risks you face when not using a legally registered au pair agency:

• high probability of unsuitable au pair or host family candidates
• absence of a written contract
• little or no experience in the au pair industry
• lack of professionalism or financial stability
• nonexistent standards or guidelines
• insufficient references and/or medical certification
• danger of document falsification
• no rematch policy (secondary placement) if the initial placement is unsuccessful
• no local support during the placement
• limited understanding of national au pair regulations