Q: How long is tofriend’s Au Pair China program?
A: We offer four types of program durations: three, six, nine, and twelve months of placements. Should you be interested in other program lengths between 3 and 12 months, for instance, 5 months or 10 months, please discuss with a tofriend Representative or its International Partner about further possibilities. However, you should expect a much longer waiting period for your placement under such circumstances.
Q. How long does it take for the matching process?
A. Usually it takes about 1-2 months, but quality applicants with good skills and strong background can be matched as quickly as 2 weeks.
Q: What type of visa should I get for an Au Pair program in China?
A: Currently, the Chinese government does not offer an exclusive Au Pair visa. However, Au Pair cultural exchange purposed programs are subject to F/X2-visa categories. tofriend will send you a copy of the Visa Invitation Letter (VIL) through tofriend's International Partner upon successful match. You should bring your VIL to the nearest Chinese embassy or consulates and apply for the F/X2-visa. If you are from a EU country, we have more convinient way to help you apply the visa thru our Paris representative.
Q: Do I have any travel insurance?
tofriend will book you accidental and travel medical insurance for your entire stay in China at no additional cost. For more detailed information, please contact your Overseas Representative or local agency.
Q: What kind of program training will I receive upon my arrival?
A: Within the first month of your arrival, tofriend arrange comprehensive orientation and workshops up to 10 hours for our new comers. Typical topics in the orientation will include: general city information, program guidelines, cultural differences, child safety, child education in China, Au Pair Mandarin Vocabulary, and more. Having received such comprehensive orientation and training programs, you will be much more informed and prepared. In addition to training, a sightseeing program will be an added highlight for all fellow Au Pairs!
Q: What will be my Au Pair responsibilities?
A: You are required to provide up to 30 hours per week of childcare and educational assistance, such as language tutoring and some light household chores. Typically, a Chinese Host Family would expect you to contribute the majority of your time interacting with the kids, whether it is bringing them to school, playing games with them, or helping the kids with homework and providing some foreign language tutoring.
More information regarding foreign Au Pair Duties in China still to come!
Q: Do I need to bring money to help me settle in?
A: Normally you will be picked up by a tofriend representative or your Host Family directly from the airport. Afterwards, your host family will cover your meals and accommodation. However, you still have to cover some personal expenses before you get your first monthly pocket money. We suggest our Au Pairs bring between 500-1,000 RMB (about $80-$160 USD) cash before departure.
Q: How much extra can I earn and when am I paid?
A: You will be paid 1000-1500 RMB monthly by your Host Family. You may discuss with your Host Family the exact date this monthly payment will be given in the Host Family Au Pair Agreement upon your match. Moreover, tofriend issues a Quarterly Bonus to outstanding Au Pairs with above average performance in carrying out their duties as an Au Pairs and attending school classes and activities. This amount varies from 300 RMB to 900 RMB and is to the sole discretion of tofriend. The Quarterly Bonus is usually issued within 30 days after the discussed Quarter ends.
Q: Am I allowed to have a second job to earn extra money?
A: No! By doing so you will be violating the terms and conditions of your entry visa, which is for cultural exchange purposes only. This may also lead to you being arrested and/or deported by the authorities.
Q: What classes do I get from LoPair? How often are the classes?
A: On a regular basis, LoPair provides Mandarin classes, Chinese cultural courses, Calligraphy, Tai chi, Kung fu, and more. 12-month placement participants receive 200 class hours; 6-month participants’ receives 100 class hours; while 3-month participants receive 50 class hours. Classes and the agreed Host Family schedule will be coordinated; however, LoPair offers 4 class hours a week in average to each Au Pair participant.
Q: Do I need to drive a car?
A: Currently not many Host Families demand their Au Pairs to drive. In addition, the Chinese driving regulations usually do not recognize any International Drivers License. Any foreigner that wants to drive in China should apply for a Chinese driving license issued by local Chinese Traffic Management Bureaus. This takes several weeks and involves a few driving tests. Should you and your Host Family both agree on driving in China, please inquire your local Coordinator for detailed information.
More information regarding applying for a Chinese Driving License in China: http://www.bjjtgl.gov.cn/publish/portal1/tab183/info2182.htm
Q: What activities may I participate in as a LoPair Au Pair Club Member?
A: LoPair arranges various activities for its Au Pairs on a monthly basis. You may expect to join a playgroup with your Host Family. During the playgroup, a licensed Early Childhood Education teacher may guide you and help conduct exciting activities.
There are also traditional Chinese and western celebrations, such as Chinese Spring Festival or Christmas, to celebrate! We also organize Au Pair seasonal outings to scenery resorts, snack tasting events, community volunteer activities, or even a weekend trip outside of your placement city.