STAMFORD, Conn.—Foreign au pairs will now be able to live with their American families for up to two years—up from one year—in a significant program change announced by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

“Since the Au Pair program began in 1986, families have asked for more continuity of child care,” said William Gertz, CEO of the American Institute For Foreign Study’s Au Pair in America program. “Now we can tell our four thousand families that their children do not have to say good-bye to their caregiver after only twelve months.”

Au pairs will receive a weekly stipend increase to $165, up from $139, in the second year. Families retaining their first year au pair will receive a substantial program discount.

Au Pair in America’s au pairs are between the ages of 18 to 26 and have practical, hands-on child care experience. They have been professionally screened and selected by Au Pair in America to provide 45 hours per week of quality child care to children. Program costs are approximately $265 per week, per family—not per child. This year, Au Pair in America, which is designated by the U.S. Department of State to provide its au pairs with a J-1 Visitors Exchange Visa, will bring au pairs from more than 45 countries to the United States.

To help facilitate this unique intercultural experience, Au Pair in America employs a nationwide network of Community Counselors. The Community Counselor provides support to host families and au pairs, plus cultural and social activities for au pairs throughout the year. To ensure the safety of all program participants, Au Pair in America provides 24 hour emergency coverage.