The Process of an International Adoption

The process of international adoption can be a complicated one. Depending upon what country one chooses to adopt from, there can be different standards and requirements. However, most rules stay the same from one country to the other.

After choosing the country one would like to adopt a child from, it is important to gather important documents. Many documents are required for an international adoption, and couples must procure certified translations of these documents. A certified translation is a translation of each document that is accepted by government institutions, financial institutions, legal bodies, etc, worldwide. In an international adoption, one of the prospective parents must prove citizenship and must show proof of age. For most adoptions, one must be able to show proof of being age 25 or older. The couple must also show a marriage certificate and documentation of termination of any prior marriages. This can be through divorce, death or annulment.

In addition, two sets of fingerprints will need to be provided from each adult, and from anyone in the household who is over 18. And when the petition for adoption is sent in, a certified check must accompany it. Make sure that to only send photocopies of important documents when applying. Note on the application that photocopies are enclosed, and bring the originals when completing the process in person.

If the adoption petition is approved, it is important to remember that this does not guarantee that a specific child can be adopted. Many factors will determine the approval for a specific child, including the child’s orphan status as well as the child’s medical status.

It is very important to go through a reputable adoption agency to ensure that all steps are followed and completed in a timely manner. Check to see if the agency is accredited, rather than just licensed. This means that the agency has met strict international standards. In addition, some countries will not deal with an adoption agency that is not accredited.

Also, a reputable agency will not charge an inflated fee up front, but usually only a processing fee. Some also provide guides and translators to travel along to the adoptive country, offering help in dealing with the foreign agency. They may also provided post-adoption assistance, helping the child get acclimated into his or her new home and culture.

One should always do research into an agency before making a final decision. Being cautious can save you time and future complications.