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The U.S. Department of State ("DOS") is immediately imposing a moratorium on growth in the J-1 Au Pair Program. This program permits young foreign nationals, 18 to 26 years of age, to be placed with U.S. host families seeking childcare. The program is open to citizens of all nations, except those from countries lacking diplomatic relations with the U.S. Participation in the program lasts for 12 months, but DOS may approve a one-time extension of 6, 9, or 12 months if the au pair has complied with specific educational requirements. An extension request must be filed at least 30 days prior to expiration. The Au Pair program has been the subject of considerable discussion in the media. E.g., see ‘They Think We Are Slaves’. Under the announced moratorium, DOS has halted the designation of new sponsor organizations. Consequently, DOS will neither accept nor approve new applications from entities seeking Au pair program designation at this time. Additionally, existing sponsor organizations will be precluded from expanding their respective programs. See Moratorium on Growth in the Au Pair Program. While it is true that many foreign nationals use the Au Pair Program as a springboard to immigrate to the U.S., the program nevertheless promotes a phenomenal degree of cultural exchange and substantially enriches U.S. communities in the long term.
We assist countless foreign nationals and we will be happy to personally assist you with your application as well. Send us an E-mail or call us at (888)354-6257. For reasons on why you should consult an immigration attorney whenever you have an immigration issue, see our page titled: Reasons Why it is Vital to Use an Immigration Lawyer.