If you’ve decided to embark on the journey of adoption, congratulations! This is a significant and exciting milestone that can bring immense joy. However, as you begin this process—especially with international adoption in mind—you may find yourself with many questions. According to UNICEF, there are approximately 153 million orphans around the globe, and while not all are available for adoption by U.S. citizens, the reality is that your future child could be waiting for you somewhere out there. The world is vast, and navigating the complexities of adoption can be daunting, even within your own country. So how should you begin? Let’s take a closer look at the international adoption process.
The Landscape of International Adoption in the U.S.
As per the U.S. Department of State’s 2017 report, 4,714 children were adopted into the United States from foreign countries within that year. Since 1999, U.S. families have welcomed over 250,000 children from abroad into their homes.
Who Can Adopt?
International adoption tends to be more intricate than domestic adoption, but the fundamental eligibility criteria remain similar: prospective parents must meet both federal and state legal requirements to adopt. Additionally, you must comply with the laws of the country from which you are adopting. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) advises that it’s crucial to understand the intercountry adoption process, which is regulated by multiple legal frameworks.
The primary U.S. federal requirements include: being a U.S. citizen, being at least 25 years old if single, jointly adopting if married (even if separated), and ensuring that your spouse is also a U.S. citizen or has legal status in the U.S. You’ll also need to pass a background check and complete a home study. State laws and the regulations of the child’s home country will vary, so it’s essential to consult resources like the Child Welfare Information Gateway to understand the specific laws that apply to you.
Understanding the Adoption Process
To start the international adoption process, you will need to submit an application to USCIS. This includes your USCIS form, a home study, an application fee, and additional documentation proving your eligibility. The process you choose will determine which specific forms you’ll need to file.
There are three primary pathways for international adoption:
- The Orphan Process: This is often the quickest route, involving the filing of Form I-600A and Form I-600. To classify as an orphan under U.S. immigration law, a child must be without legal parents due to death, abandonment, or a surviving parent who cannot care for them.
- The Hague Process: Governed by the Hague Convention, this method aims to protect children and ensure ethical adoptions. To adopt a child from a Hague Convention country, the child must be deemed adoptable by their home country. You’ll file Forms I-800A and I-800 to initiate this process.
- Family-Based Immigrant Petition Process: If you adopted a child without utilizing the first two processes, this option might be available. You must file Form I-130, ensuring the adoption was finalized before the child’s 16th birthday (or 18th if adopting a sibling) and that the child has lived with you for at least two years.
Next Steps in Your Adoption Journey
The specific steps will vary depending on the country you adopt from, your state, and the process you select. However, you will typically need to choose an adoption agency to act as your intermediary with the child’s country. It’s also wise to consult with an immigration attorney, as not all agencies are created equal. Take your time in researching to find one that aligns with your needs.
Your adoption agency will help coordinate a home study, which assesses your living situation and suitability as an adoptive parent. This study includes interviews, health information, and references from friends and family. In international adoptions, additional requirements may come from the child’s home country.
Moreover, your adoption agency can assist in arranging a comprehensive medical evaluation for the child, which is crucial given the diverse backgrounds of international adoptees. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate can provide lists of approved physicians in various countries.
Once you’ve applied to USCIS and received approval, you’ll work with your agency to submit any further required forms. Before returning to the U.S. with your child, ensure that you have their immigrant visa processed.
Financial Considerations for International Adoption
The cost of adopting a child internationally can vary widely, typically ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on various factors like the process chosen, the agency selected, and the child’s country of origin. There are additional expenses to consider, such as travel costs to visit your child’s home country multiple times prior to finalizing the adoption, as well as routine fees associated with USCIS filings and other services.
Countries Available for Adoption
A comprehensive list of countries that permit adoptions by U.S. citizens can be found here. When considering a country, it’s important to do thorough research. The most common countries for international adoption include China, Ethiopia, South Korea, Haiti, India, and Ukraine.
Considerations for LGBTQI+ Parents
The same federal laws apply to LGBTQI+ individuals regarding intercountry adoption. However, be aware that some foreign countries may impose restrictions on same-sex couples. It’s vital to conduct thorough research to avoid potential disappointments.
Is International Adoption Right for You?
Many families choose international adoption for various reasons, including the desire to provide a home to a child in need from a different culture. However, it’s crucial to evaluate the legitimacy of your chosen agency and your connection to the child’s culture. Prepare for any potential challenges that may arise from cultural differences or trauma the child may experience.
Every child deserves a loving family, and whether you choose to adopt domestically or internationally, it’s essential to educate yourself. For more information on adoption processes, you can also visit our related blog post here.
Summary
International adoption is a profound decision that comes with its own unique set of challenges and requirements. Understanding the eligibility criteria, the various processes, and the associated costs is vital to navigating this rewarding journey. Whether you’re drawn to adopt from abroad for personal reasons or a sense of responsibility, thorough research and preparation will help you create a loving family environment. For further insights, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
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