Safety is, of course, a crucial aspect of becoming an au pair in the USA. When you begin the next exciting chapter of your life as an au pair, you’ll want to ensure that you’re safe and secure through every phase of the process.
As an au pair with Cultural Care, you’ll have peace of mind that you’re in good hands as you embark on this life-changing adventure. From the moment you register for our program through our online application, to the day you land on American soil, to the day you return home a year later, you can rest assured that you have an entire support network behind you.
Data Protection and Privacy
We kick off the au pair journey by safely protecting your data and your privacy. We guarantee that when you sign up and register for our program, you’re submitting information to a trusted and secure source. Never will you need to worry about your private and personal details being compromised; when you choose Cultural Care, you choose network security.
US State Department Regulated Program
When it comes to the next steps of your au pair adventure – making your way to the beautiful United States of America – you can rest easy knowing that you’re choosing the largest and most experienced au pair agency in the world. At Cultural Care Au Pair, au pair safety is our top concern. As a member of a US State Department regulated program, you are legally protected under a set of unflinching rules and regulations to ensure a safe and successful program year. Our Cultural Care team in America works closely with and strictly adheres to the US State Department’s guidelines so that all program participants are treated fairly and given a quality experience during their time abroad.
Cultural Care is also a member of the International Au Pair Association (IAPA), which gives us a “quality seal of approval” as an American au pair program.
Global Network of Support
When you choose to travel to the USA with an au pair agency – rather than alone or through your own means – you’re choosing the safety and security of a large and well-established network of representatives, all dedicated to helping you have a smooth stay. Traveling alone can be overwhelming and stressful at times; and without the backing of a government branch like the US Department of State, you may not be entirely clear on your rights as a visitor from overseas. All that uncertainty can be left behind when you travel as a Cultural Care au pair, leaving ample room in your head and heart to simply enjoy the cultural experience of being in the USA and living with an American family. 
Safest Cities and States in the USA
While the USA is overall very safe – after all, every city and state is under the careful supervision of various police departments and emergency services – there are certain areas that are known for being especially secure. Some of the safest states in the USA are Maine, Vermont, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Utah and Connecticut. Many au pairs from countries around the world enjoying living in these US states! When it comes to determining the safest cities in the USA, there are different metrics to consider – but two of the top three are found in California! Irvine and Thousand Oaks are beautiful, safe cities on the west coast of America. And based on the stories and experiences of our au pairs over the years, California is a very popular place for au pairs who are looking to travel, learn and grow in the USA.
Crime rate in the USA has been steadily declining for years – especially for violent crimes. Reported crime is down more than 30 percent since the 1990s, and they continue to hit record lows around the country. Maine is consistently found to be among the states with the lowest crimes rates, historically.
Again, overall, the USA is a safe and very pleasant country to live in. There’s a reason why so many young, educated and adventurous women and men come to America to be au pairs every year – it’s because the US is a diverse and culturally-rich place to be.
Emergency Resources
During your au pair stay in the US, there are many resources made available to you that can be used in an emergency – or even when you’re in need of some help from Cultural Care. Every au pair has a designated Local Childcare Consultant (LCC) in their community – someone that helps make your program year run smoothly and safely, and who helps resolve any conflicts or emergencies that may arise. If you ever need someone to help with anything from host family disagreements, to homesickness, to safety issues or to emergencies, your LCC is the one to call.
Of course, Cultural Care Au Pair also has a 24/7 emergency line that you can call in the event of a serious issue. Whether it’s after business hours, over a weekend or during a holiday, a Cultural Care staff member will be there to answer your call and help you in whatever way they can. The number for any emergencies or any support services you may need is 1-800-333-6056.