How to Adopt a Baby or Child from China

Whatever your reason for considering adoption of a Chinese child or baby—the choice is a personal one—whether it’s due to infertility or a number of other reasons. China could be your answer when it comes to adopting a child. To adopt a child from China:

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patience
• At least $20,000
• Passport
• Immunizations
• Big Heart

1. Check to see if you meet qualifications: Chinese law dictates certain qualifications, which must be met in order to legally adopt a girl or boy from China. Becoming aware of and educated about the Chinese adoption laws will save you a lot of time and potential heartbreak.

2. Secure the funds needed: The Chinese adoption process can be expensive. Be prepared to spend as much as $20,000.

3. Select the adoption agency: The China Center of Adoption Affairs—or CCAA—controls all Chinese adoptions. Be sure to choose an adoption agency that is registered with them. Do your homework when selecting an adoption agency because quality and fees vary. A good adoption agency will know adoption laws and be able to assist you through the entire adoption journey.

4. Complete the home study: A social worker employed by a Chinese adoption agency will visit your home and conduct interviews to assess your living situation. This helps to ensure that a stable and loving environment will be provided to the child. As part of the home study process, you may also be asked to visit the social worker in his or her office.

5. Complete the paperwork: You will be asked to provide a ton of paperwork, including, but not limited to providing documents such as a criminal background check, proof of annual salary and certified copies of medical history. You will also be asked a series of questions such as the age range and gender of the child you would like to invite into your heart and home.

6. Wait on a referral: If you are approved by the CCAA—they will match you with a specific child based on the information provided in your application. The referral or offer will include a photo and background information on the child. If you accept the offer, the next step is to go to China to finalize the adoption process.

7. Go to China: As part of the adoption process, you will be required to go to China to meet and pick-up your child. It’s best to apply for your passport well in advance of the trip. You will also need the proper immunization before traveling overseas. Be prepared to spend about two weeks in China.

8. Bring Your Baby or Child home to the US: You will be asked to visit the orphanage where your child resides or you child may be brought to your location in China. This will be your first meeting with your newest family member! You will be asked to finalize some paperwork and donate to the orphanage AKA child welfare. Be prepared to spend about $4000-$5000 during this process. A reputable adoption agency will guide you through the immigration process for your new baby or child, which will include a notarized birth certificate, medical exam and Visa.
   
   It's been a long and winding road, but you are now a new mommy or daddy! Enjoy and love your new baby or child!

Tips & Warnings

• The entire adoption process may take as long as 3-5 years. If you’re willing to accept a special needs child—you may be able to adopt a child in less time.
• After you bring your child home to the US, you will be visited by a social worker at least a couple more times to ensure the adjustment of your child.
• Be very careful when filling out the adoption application. Changing information later could delay the adoption process.

[maryanne09]

on 12/5/2009 Great article on How to Adopt a Baby or Child from China! 5*'s :) How have you been doing? :)