Adoption Guidelines for Foreign Children

Adopting internationally is a rewarding way to build a family.

Adopting a foreign child is a rewarding process that requires adhering to strict governmental guidelines. In addition, guidelines vary slightly for each foreign country. Families ready to adopt internationally can receive more detailed information from their adoption agency.

Types

There are two types of international adoptions available for American families. Adoptions from Hague convention countries follow a standardized set of rules and guidelines that must be adhered to when completing an adoption. Non-Hague convention countries set their own adoption guidelines for adoptive parents to follow and are not bound by the convention.

Requirements

Families looking to adopt overseas must meet all adoption requirements. All adoptive families must apply for adoption eligibility with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Bureau, complete a home study and pay an application fee, according to the US Department of State's (DoS) website. Specific application forms are available for both Hague convention and non-Hague convention countries. The child's home country may require more paperwork to be completed before an adoption is completed.

Considerations

Americans seeking to adopt internationally must meet the guidelines and requirements of three sets of laws, according to the DoS website. Parents must meet the guidelines established in United States federal law, the laws in their home state and any adoption laws and guidelines in place in the child's home country. Before starting the adoption process, parents must ensure that they meet all adoption eligibility requirements.

References

• US Department of State: Eligibility to Adopt
• US Department of State: Hague Convention Overview