About Us

The International Au Pair Association

IAPA is a global not-for-profit trade association founded in 1994, representing organisations in the au pair and cultural exchange sector. It promotes safe, fair, and high-quality au pair programmes worldwide by setting international guidelines, supporting ethical standards, and ensuring member organisations comply with a shared Code of Conduct.

We promote safe, fair, and high-quality au pair programmes worldwide. Our work includes setting international guidelines and quality standards for au pair agencies and cultural exchange organisations, supporting compliance with ethical and operational requirements, and encouraging best practice across the sector.

We also provide a platform for cooperation and knowledge exchange between member organisations and advocate for the recognition and protection of au pair programmes globally.

Today, we represent around 140 member organisations in over 40 countries. Membership is limited to organisations that meet strict ethical, professional, and operational standards. All members commit to the IAPA Code of Conduct, demonstrating integrity, transparency, and competence in the delivery of au pair and cultural exchange programmes.

Our Aims and Objectives

Objectives

Representation

The dedicated voice of the au pair cultural exchange sector, supporting and representing our members and ensuring strong international representation for the sector.

Best Practice

Our members connect with other reliable, quality organisations to partner and network with. They gain access to shared best practice and knowledge, enabling them to deliver high-quality au pair placements.

Cultural Exchange

Cultural exchange between countries, promoted by encouraging young people and host families to take part in au pair programmes that create meaningful international experiences.

Advocacy

As the bridge between member agencies and governments, we advocate for the development of au pair programmes worldwide and for their recognition as a valuable form of cultural exchange.

Safe Placements

Safe, well-supported placements for au pairs and host families, upheld by quality agencies who comply with our guidelines and Code of Conduct.

Governance

IAPA is governed through the General Assembly, the Board, and Management, within the framework set out in the Constitution.

What is the General Assembly?

The General Assembly is IAPA´s highest decision making body. It takes place once a year and member organisations are invited to gather to review the work of the Board and Management and set the direction for the year ahead.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is usually held during the WETM-IAC conference. Members are informed about key decisions, activities, and progress made by the Board and Management, including financial and organisational matters.

Members vote on governance, financial, and strategic issues. The General Assembly ensures that decisions are made collectively and that the association remains accountable to its members.

News from last assemblies

What is the IAPA Board?

The Board is elected by the General Assembly and leads IAPA between annual meetings. (more below under "Who we Are")

What does IAPA Management do?

Management runs the day-to-day operations of IAPA, implementing the decisions and strategy set by the Board and the General Assembly.

History

IAPA was founded in 1994 to establish high standards and best practices across the au pair sector, support cooperation between organisations, promote the au pair programme as a form of cultural exchange, and ensure the wellbeing of both au pairs and host families.

Read our full history

The Team

Who we are

The IAPA Board: Led by Members, Driven by Experts

The Executive Board of IAPA is a cornerstone of the organisation’s leadership. It is composed of experienced professionals and is elected by members during the Annual General Meeting (AGM), ensuring that governance reflects the diverse voices and needs of the global au pair community.

Election and Tenure

Executive Board members serve a three-year term, providing continuity while allowing for the introduction of new perspectives and expertise.

After this period, Board members are eligible for re-election.

Find out more about the IAPA Board members’ duties and responsibilities and the different roles within the Board.

Leading with Vision: Advocacy, Support, and Growth

The Executive Board sets the strategic direction of IAPA, focusing on advocacy, member support, financial sustainability, and organisational development. It defines priorities, while Management is responsible for operational implementation. and the day to day tasks.

Together, they work to: