Safety, privacy and profiles on Hostaupairs

What document review means

Community access is for adults after manual approval of a DS-2019 or sponsor confirmation. Members must provide their real first and last names at registration and in their profile. These details are self-declared; reviewing an au pair document does not replace civil identity verification or a background investigation.

BridgeUSA explains the DS-2019 within the exchange visitor programme. It is not a personal endorsement by Hostaupairs or the US government. Hostaupairs is neither a programme sponsor nor a placement agency. Ask your sponsor about questions relating to your own programme.

Keep sensitive information private

Use the dedicated verification upload for the requested document, never a member conversation. Do not publish your passport, DS-2019, passwords or financial details. Someone arranging a coffee or trip does not need these documents. Treat a request for them as a reason to pause the conversation.

Avoid sharing your exact home address, the children’s schools or your host family’s routines. Ask permission before posting photos that include others. Member areas require login, but someone can still copy a message or image. Only share information you are comfortable communicating to another person.

Prepare a first meeting

Choose a public place and a short activity. Confirm details in your conversation and tell someone you trust. Keep your own way home and your documents with you. A video call may help you recognise someone, but is not sufficient evidence that a meeting is risk-free.

Decline urgent requests for money, pressure to meet in an isolated place or demands to move the entire conversation elsewhere. You may cancel, leave or stop communicating at any time. Another member is not entitled to your time, contact details or accommodation. Respect the same choices when another person declines.

Understand member-hosted stays

Before a stay, discuss dates, sleeping arrangements, house rules and whether the host actually has permission to receive guests. A listing alone does not prove that every necessary permission exists. Hostaupairs facilitates conversations, but does not take bookings or payments and does not guarantee a stay. Keep an alternative accommodation plan.

Respond to a problem

Block a member to stop contact and report concerning content or behaviour using the available tools. Describe the facts, date and useful context without circulating sensitive documents. For programme matters, contact your sponsor. In immediate danger, contact local emergency services. The privacy policy explains how to make a request about your personal data.