Is being an au pair in China safe?
China is widely regarded as a safe place to live and travel. Here's how we look after you from your application until you fly home.
How we keep you safe
Safety is built into every step of the program, not added at the end.
Screened host families
Every host family is interviewed and checked by our team before joining the program.
Everything in writing
Your weekly hours with the children, time off and education subsidy are agreed in writing before you travel.
A proper student visa
You enter China on an X1 or X2 student visa, never a tourist visa.
Insurance included
We provide insurance for your whole stay in China.
A real Shanghai office
Our headquarters is in TODTOWN Skyline (天荟悦麟), right above TODTOWN mall in Minhang District, Shanghai. You can visit us.
Support if things go wrong
If a match isn't going well, we talk to both sides and can help you move to a new host family.
Before you travel
The safest exchange starts with the right match.
We get to know the family
Our team interviews every host family about their home, their children and what they hope for from the exchange. Families that are not a good fit do not join.
You meet them first
You talk to your host family on video calls before you decide. Ask anything: about the children, the neighbourhood, your room or daily routines.
Your room is ready
Before you arrive, we give your host family a checklist so your room is properly prepared for you.
Clear expectations
Hours, time off and your education subsidy are written down and agreed by you and the family, so there are no surprises.
If something doesn't feel right
Living with a new family in a new country is a big change, and it's normal to need help now and then. Our Shanghai team is there whenever you or your host family reach out.
- Tell us on WhatsApp, WeChat or email. You can always talk to us in confidence.
- We listen to you and to your host family, and look for a fair solution together.
- Most problems are small misunderstandings that a conversation solves.
- If the match really isn’t right, we help you move to a new host family.
Practical tips for life in China
Cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen have low crime, busy streets late into the evening and safe, modern public transport. A few local habits make daily life even easier:
- Save our team’s contact details and the emergency numbers: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance) and 119 (fire).
- Set up a mobile payment app and a local SIM card soon after you arrive.
- Register your address with the local police within 24 hours of arrival; your host family will help.
- Share your travel plans with your host family or our team when you explore.
- Drink bottled or boiled water rather than water straight from the tap.
- Watch out for e-bikes and scooters, which often ride on pavements and quietly.
- In busy tourist areas, politely say no to strangers inviting you to tea houses or art shows.
- Keep a photo of your passport and visa on your phone, and your insurance details too.
A note for parents
If your son or daughter is thinking about China, you probably have questions too. Our team has been based in Shanghai for decades, our office is open to visitors, and every au pair travels on a legal student visa with insurance from the day they land. Read aboutwhat the au pair program includes. You are welcome to join a call with us before they decide.
Questions about safety? Get in touch before you decide.
Ready for your year in China?
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