overview
More and more students and young professionals are looking to China as their next great cultural adventure. Whether drawn by a gap year, an international internship, or simply the pull of somewhere new, they come seeking the depth of China's history and the richness of its living culture. As a Hanhai Au Pair, you won't just visit—you'll live it.
We match culture-loving young adults with Chinese families eager to welcome you into their homes for 3, 6, or 12 months—with summer placements also available. These families are looking for native or fluent English speakers not only to support their child's language learning, but to share in a genuine cultural exchange that broadens perspectives on both sides.
Being an Au Pair in China is more than an experience—it's a chance to grow as a global citizen. You'll step outside your comfort zone, build real connections across cultures, and develop the understanding needed to bridge divides in an interconnected world.
For both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers, the unknown can feel daunting. That's why Hanhai Culture provides ongoing support before and during your journey—so you can focus on what matters: immersing yourself in the experience, building relationships, and discovering China on your own terms.
au pair keywords
English
Tutoring &Childcare
Your role as an Au Pair goes beyond teaching English—it's about becoming a trusted presence in a child's world. You'll spend your days nurturing their curiosity, supporting their development, and sharing your language in ways that feel natural and fun. If you have a caring heart and a passion for helping children thrive, you'll find this experience deeply rewarding.
Cultural
Exchange
Imagine being welcomed not just into a house, but into a family. Your host family opens their door and their daily life to you—sharing meals, celebrations, and everyday moments. Here, you're more than an Au Pair; you're a daughter or son away from home, embraced as part of their world while bringing a piece of yours to theirs.
Experiential
Education
In short, being an au pair in China is a transformative experience. It’s a chance to learn Mandarin in the most natural way, to build lasting bonds with a Chinese family, and to gain a global mindset that will benefit you personally and professionally for the rest of your life. It's a journey of discovery—of China, and of yourself.
Mandarin
language learning
In short, the option for Mandarin classes isn't just an add-on; it's a core part of the Au Pair experience. It's the key that unlocks the full richness of Chinese culture, transforms your daily life from confusing to manageable (and then to enjoyable!), and gives you a skill that will benefit you for a lifetime.
Traveling & Volunteering
The original description mentioned gaining a "broader perspective." Volunteering accelerates this. It fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of shared humanity that transcends borders. You begin to see yourself not just as a visitor, but as an active, responsible member of a global community.
program details
Locations of host families:
The skyline of Pudong, the historic charm of the Bund, and the trendy streets of the French Concession make Beijing a city of endless discovery. As an Au Pair here, you'll have access to world-class restaurants, international communities, art galleries, and a nightlife scene that rivals any global capital.
Program time span:
3 months-12 months, summer programs (July and August ) also available
You Give:
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30 hours of childcare and English tutoring per week
You Receive:
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2000 RMB pocket money/month (provided monthly)
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3000-12000 RMB flight stipend depending on the length of stay （3-12 months program)
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3-15 hours of Mandarin classes/week
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around 1.5 days off each week
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International medical insurance
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Visa application & renewal fee reimbursement (provided upon Au Pair's completion of the program)
You Pay: 0$ application fee + $100 USD deposit (the down payment is only required once applicant is approved for program and will be completely refunded to au pairs upon the completion of the program)
You are eligible to apply for the Hanhai Culture Au Pair Program if:
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You have completed secondary school (high school)
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You are a native speaker or proficient in English
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You have no criminal record
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You are open to cultural differences and exploration
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You have the ability to teach English
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You are 18-30 years old
Au Pair Responsibilities
It prevents potential misunderstandings or resentment. When both the host family and the Au Pair understand that your role is focused on the children and family engagement, it creates a more respectful, positive, and harmonious living environment for everyone.
English
Tutoring
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Deliver planned English lessons on a daily basis to the host kids
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Help the kids to learn a second foreign language (optional)
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Carry out fun activities with the kids to help them learn English (eg. story reading, English songs, role play and games)
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Help the kids with their English homework
Take care of
the host kid & engage
in family activities
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waking up the children
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taking/picking up children to/from school
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playing games with the children
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taking the children on outings to parks, playgroups and other activities
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Go shopping with host family
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Go travelling with host family
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Engage in other family activities
Share some
light house work
(usually not required by host families)
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preparing light meals for children and clean up after the meals
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doing the children’s laundry and ironing their clothes
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making the children’s beds
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tidying up the children's toys
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cleaning the children's room
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cleaning of au pair’s own room
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Help with cooking occassionally
Schedule as an Au Pair
Ultimately, this flexible structure is what makes the Au Pair experience so authentic. You aren't just filling a job slot; you are adapting to the beautiful, sometimes chaotic, always rewarding rhythm of a real family's life.s
If the family has an Ayi, she is your teammate. She handles the cleaning, shopping, and sometimes cooking. This leaves you free to focus entirely on the children. You should be polite and respectful to her, as she is an important part of the household team.
No matter which schedule you have, the core of your role remains the same. You are not just filling time; you are a consistent, loving, and linguistically enriching presence in a child's life. Whether you're helping a teenager with a complex English essay or teaching a toddler the word for "ball," you are building a bridge between cultures, one day at a time.
A Day in the Life of An Au Pair Might Include
Accompanying your host child(ren) on their ride to school with the family's driver and reading them stories along the way
Planning English lessons and tutoring your child(ren) in English (e.g. reading, phonics, vocabulary, etc.)
Accompanying the family's driver to pick up the host child(ren) from school and playing vocabulary game on the way home
Playing games with the host child(ren), singing, dancing, reading stories
Helping the host child(ren) with English homework
Joining family activities, and sharing your own culture with the host family
A Typical Week in the Life of An Au Pair Might Look Like
What might a typical week look like?
Additional Information:
1.A balanced workload that gives you meaningful time with the children while preserving plenty of time for yourself.
2.Your daily commitment is capped, ensuring you have energy and personal time each day.
3.You'll have a full day and a half off each week. Be prepared that these days may fall on weekdays rather than Saturdays and Sundays.
4.Most host families set a reasonable curfew during the work week. This is about mutual respect and ensuring you're rested for your morning responsibilities.
5.Family schedules can shift due to work changes, children's activities, or unexpected events. Adaptability is one of the most valuable traits you can bring.
Program Cost
1. Is there a program fee for Hanhai Culture's Au Pair in China Program?
Participation in the Hanhai Culture Au Pair in China Program is completely free—there are no program fees to join.
2. When do applicants pay the $100 USD deposit? What does the deposit cover?
The deposit should be paid after you have been accepted into the program and matched with a host family, it is at this time we will add you to our approved applicant pool to be matched with a host family. Although we require this deposit, the entire $100 USD will be successfully completely returned to the au pair upon their completion of the program. The deposit is to ensure that each au pair is committed to their participation in the program since host families must pay several costs up front in order for you to be approved for the appropriate visa.
3. Do I book my own flight to China?
Au pairs are responsible for completing their own Chinese visa application and paying the associated visa fee. This is a standard requirement set by the Chinese consulate.
4. Do au pairs have to pay for additional transportation to the host family's city if the city doesn't have an airport?
No, WE covers the transportation expenses from the nearest city with an airport to the host family's city.
5. Do au pairs apply and pay their Chinese Visa or does Hanhai Culture?
Au pairs are responsible for completing their own Chinese visa application and paying the associated visa fee. This is a standard requirement set by the Chinese consulate.
6. When do au pairs receive pocket money from host family each month?
Your first pocket money installment will be provided after you have successfully completed your first month with the host family. This allows everyone to settle in and establish a comfortable routine.
7. How much money should au pairs plan to budget for their first month in China?
Keep in mind that your first month may involve some one-time setup costs, such as purchasing a monthly metro pass, buying household essentials, or stocking up on personal items. Having a little extra cushion is always a good idea.
8. How much money will au pairs receive as flight stipend? When do au pairs receive their flight stipend?
The flight stipend varies based on the length of your stay. In general, the longer you commit to the program, the higher your stipend—ranging from 3000 to 12000 RMB (approximately $400–$1650 USD, depending on exchange rates).
9. What expenses/costs do au pairs have before they arrive in China?
* Deposit of $100 USD
* Visa fee (dependent on country of origin)
* Airplane ticket to China
* Fee for having your doctor complete a medical history form (fee dependent on your doctor)
* Fee for obtaining a background check or criminal record check (fee dependent on your country/state of residence)
Au Pair in China Program MATCHING Process
Additional Application Process Information :
1. To begin, simply click here to complete and submit our short preliminary application form. This helps us get to know you a little and confirm your eligibility.
2. Prior to submitting the complete application, prospective au pairs have the opportunity and are encouraged to schedule a interview session with a Hanhai Culture representative to learn more about the program and ask questions.
3. Once you've been matched with a host family, you'll need to prepare a few supporting documents before applying for your visa. These include:
* Copy of your passport
* Medical form – completed by your doctor (Hanhai Culture will provide the form)
* Police/background check
* Copy of your education diploma
4. Following your interview, we'll notify you of your acceptance into the program. From there, you'll join our applicant pool and we'll begin working to match you with a host family., Hanhai Culture will inform you whether you have been accepted into the program and will be placed in the pool of applicants to be matched with a host family.
5. Don't worry about language barriers during your family interview. Hanhai Culture can provide translation assistance to help you and your potential host family communicate comfortably.
6. We'll support you through the visa application process—providing the invitation letters and documentation you need, and guiding you along the way.
7. Au pairs arrange and pay for their own flights and visa fees upfront. The best part? Successfully complete the program, and we'll reimburse your visa fee and provide a flight stipend.
About Hanhai Culture Host Families
We have high standards for our au pairs—and we're just as thoughtful about choosing their host families. Each family goes through a complete application process before being matched with one of our candidates.
We believe you should know who you might be living with—which is why our matching process is built on transparency and mutual choice.
Families search for au pairs based on their needs. When one invites you to interview, you'll see their complete profile, including photos and a personal letter just for you.
And here's what matters most: nothing moves forward until both you and the family agree. You'll discuss everything—schedule, expectations, daily life—and the match is only complete when it feels right to everyone.
Where do Hanhai Culture host families live?
Our host families are primarily located in major cities such as Beijing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Guangzhou—both in downtown areas and surrounding suburbs. Most live in apartments with 1–3 children, and wherever you're placed, you'll have your own private room in a comfortable home.
Two cultures, one home. Living with a Chinese host family offers you a firsthand glimpse into their daily world—while giving you the beautiful opportunity to share your own. It's not just about experiencing their traditions; it's about creating new ones together.
Host Families Responsibilities
Our host families are so much more than employers—they become your extended family in China. They're your anchor, your home base, your deepest connection to the country. And for many, the relationships formed here don't end when the program does—they last a lifetime.
Chinese Host Families:
* Welcoming you as an extended family member
* Including you in most meals, outings, and celebrations
* Providing a private room and regular meals
* Having at least one member who speaks reasonable English
* Paying a monthly stipend of 2,000 RMB
* Covering Mandarin classes (8–15 hours/week)—offline in Beijing/Beijing, online elsewhere
* Paying visa application and renewal feesOffline classes available in Beijing and Beijing & Online classes available in other cities
* Pay for their au pair's visa application & renewal fee
* Providing an air travel stipend upon successful completion
* Covering medical/accident insurance
* Funding your orientation upon arrival
* Limiting work to 30 hours/week, 7 hours/day
* Giving 1.5 days off per week, plus paid holiday (3 days for 3 months, 4 for 4, etc.)
* Ensuring no heavy housework or non-child-related tasks
visa Application faqs
Applying for a visa can feel overwhelming—but you don't have to figure it out alone. Hanhai Culture will provide all the supporting documents you need and walk with you through every step of the process. From paperwork to approval, we're here to help you get to China with confidence.
Q: What kind of visa will I be applying to become an au pair in China?
A: Au pairs typically enter China on a Cultural Visa (F/L) or Student Visa (X2) for 6-month participation. For a 12-month experience, you can either apply for an X1 Visa before arrival or renew your existing F/L/X2 visa for another 6 months while in China.
Q: Will Hanhai assist me with the visa application process?
A: While Hanhai Culture cannot apply for the visa on your behalf, we will provide everything you need to do so successfully—including an invitation letter or admission letter, along with any other required documentation.
Q: How long does the visa application process take?
A: Visa processing usually takes 4–7 working days from submission—shipment time not included.
Q: Am I able to apply for a visa to China if I'm not currently in my home country?
A: If you hold legal residency (work, student, or tourist visa) in a country outside your home nation, you can apply for your Chinese visa at that country's Chinese embassy.
Q: Do I have to pay for the visa fee myself?
A: The visa fee is paid upfront—but don't worry, it's fully reimbursed upon successful completion of the program.
Q: Will I be able to travel abroad or travel back to my home country during my stay in China?
A: Most au pairs receive a single-entry visa—which means if you leave China during your stay, your visa expires and you'll need to apply for a new one to re-enter.
Q: Where can I see more information about applying for a visa to China?
A: Use the links below to find the Chinese embassy in your home country—we've included nations where we frequently have applicants.
Support from Hanhai Culture
Hanhai Culture is proud to stand beside you—before you arrive and all through your stay. We see your genuine desire to explore China and care for your host children, and we're honored to be the bridge between your world and theirs. Whatever it takes to make your experience amazing, we're here to make it happen.
Think of us as your safety net—plus your biggest fan. Here's how we'll support you before and during your au pair journey:
Pre-departure Support
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Screen host families
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Help schedule skype interviews between prospective au pairs and host families
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Support au pair with visa application process
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Help au pair prepare necessary contract documents
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Provide au pair with pre-departure guide
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Answer au pair’s questions before departure
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Pre-departure guide
Arrival Support
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Airport pick-up
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Welcome package and orientation
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China Mobile SIM card (help with registration)
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Orientation Topics:
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Cultural differences and adjusting to China and life with a Chinese family
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Au Pair in China Program information and policies
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Beijing City Tour
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Transportation support to your host family
In Country Support
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24/7 emergency helpline
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Insurance booking
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Mandarin classes booking
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Weekly follow up and coordination
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Monthly cultural activities
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Certificate of Completion will be offered to au pairs upon their completion of the program
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Reference letters will be offered to au pairs who have obtained very positive feedback from host familie
