What is an au pair?
An au pair is a young person from abroad who lives with a host family as part of a cultural exchange. You study the local language, share your own language and culture with the family’s children, and experience everyday life in a new country.
What kind of program is this?
Waupair China is a language and cultural exchange program. You study Mandarin at a language school on a student visa and live with a host family, who provide accommodation, meals and a US$500 monthly education subsidy.
How much time do I spend with the children?
30 to 35 hours a week. You might play, read, chat in English, help with homework or join outings. The rest of your time is for your Mandarin classes and exploring China.
What does the program cover?
We register you at a language school and cover your tuition, reimburse your flight and provide insurance. Your host family provides accommodation, meals and a US$500 monthly education subsidy.
Which visa will I need?
A student visa: X2 for programs of up to 180 days, or X1 for longer programs. We guide you through the application. See our visa page for details.
How long is the program?
From 3 months up to one year.
Who can apply?
Young adults aged 18 to 26 with conversational English and some experience with children, such as babysitting, tutoring or coaching. See the requirements page for the full list.
Do I get my own room?
Yes. Your host family provides your own room in their home, and we give every family a checklist so it is properly prepared before you arrive.
Can I choose the city I live in?
Most of our host families live in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, and some in other cities across mainland China. Tell us if you have a city in mind and we will do our best to introduce you to families there.
Is it safe?
China is widely regarded as a safe place to live and travel. Every host family is interviewed and checked, you travel on a legal student visa with insurance, and our Shanghai team is there whenever you need help.
Do I need to speak Chinese?
No. Conversational English is enough. You will learn Mandarin at your language school and at home.
What if I don’t get along with my host family?
Talk to us. We listen to both sides, help solve the problem and, if needed, help you move to a new host family.
Can I travel while I’m in China?
Yes. Use your free time and public holidays like Golden Week and Spring Festival to explore China by high-speed train. Many families also take their au pair along on holidays. Check with us before any trip outside mainland China, as it may affect your visa.
Can I stay longer than planned?
Talk to us as early as possible. Changing the length of your program can mean new visa paperwork, and we will explain your options.
How do I apply?
Email your resume and a one-minute video introducing yourself (in English) to apply@waupairchina.com. No resume? Create a profile in one minute with our short online form. See the apply page for details.
How quickly will you reply?
Our Shanghai team replies within two business days, by WhatsApp, WeChat or email.
Ready for your year in China?
Applying takes a few minutes. No resume yet? Create a profile in one minute instead.