Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Check that the au pair agency is a member of either the Recruitment and Employment Con-
federation (which has a website listing all its members and covering au pair employment in
many countries) or of the International Au Pair Association (IAPA), which has a list of its
registered agencies in 38 countries around the world:
International Au Pair Association
WYSE Travel Confederation
174 Keizersgracht
1016 DW, Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)20 421 2800
Enquiry: inquiry@iapa.org
There are, of course, perfectly good agencies that do not belong to trade associations, either
because they are too small to afford the membership fees, or because they are well-estab-
lished and have a good independent reputation.
You can also find information on au pair work worldwide by using the internet. Registra-
tion is usually free and your details will be matched to the families around the world that
have registered on the site and that meet your specifications (but make sure you talk to
both the agents, here and abroad, and the prospective family before you make your final
decision).
However, if you are considering organising an au pair placement independently, you should
be aware of the risks:
•
High probability of unsuitable au pair or host family candidates.
•
Absence of a written contract.
•
Little or no experience in the au pair industry.
•
Lack of professionalism or financial stability.
•
Non-existent standards or guidelines.
•
Insufficient references and/or medical certification.
•
Danger of document falsification.
•
No rematch policy (secondary placement) if the initial placement is unsuccessful.
•
No local support during the placement.
•
Limited understanding of national au pair and visa regulations.
