Au Pair USA program changes- June 2010

**Most Embassies should now be using the new DS160 Online Visa Application form. If you have not already, please take some time to familiarize yourself with the new application form. You can access it through the Embassy website for your country.

**The Department of State does require that Au Pairs submit the application form themselves: “Notice 22 C.F.R.6 41.103 requires an applicant to sign and submit his or her own Nonimmigrant Visa Application unless otherwise exempt. Although the applicant may receive assistance from a third party in preparing the application, the applicant is required to click at the end of the application. The applicant’s failure to sign the application may result in a termination of the application.”

**Many Embassies require that the DS160 be completed at least 48 hours before the Embassy appointment is scheduled to occur. If the DS160 is not completed and submitted in time, the appointment will be cancelled.

**Most Embassies have also raised their visa application fee to $140, and also charge a courier fee to send the Au Pair her visa if she is approved. Please make sure that your applicants are aware and prepared to pay the necessary fees.

Cheers from BRGwork!!