If you’re considering adopting a child, congratulations on this significant and life-changing decision! This journey can be filled with excitement and anticipation, but it often comes with many questions—especially if you’re leaning towards international adoption. As highlighted by UNICEF, there are approximately 153 million orphans globally. While not all of these children are open for adoption by U.S. citizens, it’s clear that your future child may be waiting for you somewhere in the world. The international landscape can be vast and intricate, making the adoption process more complicated than domestic options. So, where should you begin? Let’s break down the essentials of international, or intercountry, adoption.
Understanding International Adoption in the U.S.
The U.S. Department of State’s 2017 annual report noted that there were 4,714 adoptions from other countries to the United States within a year. Since 1999, over 250,000 children have found new homes with U.S. families through international adoption.
Who is Eligible to Adopt?
International adoption is generally more complex than domestic adoption. First, you must meet eligibility criteria under federal and state laws to adopt. Additionally, you must also comply with the legal standards of the child’s country of origin. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations governing intercountry adoptions from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Under U.S. federal law, potential adoptive parents must be U.S. citizens, at least 25 years old if single, and married couples must jointly adopt the child, with both partners being U.S. citizens or legally residing in the U.S. Furthermore, you need to fulfill additional USCIS requirements, such as passing a background check and completing a home study. State laws and the laws of the adoption country will also apply, so it’s essential to check the Child Welfare Information Gateway for your state’s regulations.
The International Adoption Process
The first step in the process is to submit an application to USCIS, which includes your form, a home study, application fees, and supporting documents to demonstrate your eligibility. There are three primary pathways for international adoption:
- Orphan Process: This typically involves filing Form I-600A and Form I-600. A child qualifies as an orphan under U.S. immigration law if they have no legal parents due to death, disappearance, or abandonment, or if a surviving parent cannot care for them and has irrevocably released them for adoption.
- Hague Process: Governed by the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children, this process establishes international standards for ethical adoption practices. To adopt from a Hague country, the child must be eligible for adoption in their home country, and efforts must have been made to find a permanent family domestically. You will need to file Forms I-800A and I-800 to start this process.
- Family-based Immigrant Petition: If you adopted a child without going through the Orphan or Hague processes, you can still immigrate them using Form I-130, but certain conditions must be met, such as finalizing the adoption before the child’s 16th birthday and demonstrating legal custody for at least two years.
What Comes Next?
The adoption process can vary significantly based on the child’s country of origin, the state of finalization, and the chosen process. You’ll need to select an adoption agency to act as your liaison with the child’s country and assist with the adoption. Consulting an immigration attorney is wise, as not all agencies are equal; thorough vetting is essential to find a suitable fit.
Your agency will facilitate the home study, which includes home visits, interviews, and documentation about your health and income, along with autobiographical statements and background checks. In international adoption, the home study may need to comply with specific requirements from the adopting country.
You may also need to obtain a comprehensive medical examination for the child, as their background can present unique needs. Be aware that some health conditions might affect visa eligibility, so consulting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for approved physicians in the child’s country is a smart move.
Cost of International Adoption
The financial aspect of international adoption varies widely, typically ranging from $20,000 to over $50,000, influenced by factors like the process chosen, the adoption agency, and the child’s country. The U.S. Department of State reported that adoption service providers have fees ranging from $0 to $64,357. Additional costs can include multiple visits to the child’s home country, which can add up quickly with flights, accommodation, food, and other expenses. Routine fees also apply, such as the USCIS filing fee of $775 and fingerprinting costs.
Adoption Source Countries
For a comprehensive list of countries open to adoptions from the U.S., you can explore this resource. Popular countries for international adoption include China, Ethiopia, South Korea, Haiti, India, and Ukraine.
Considerations for LGBTQI+ Parents
The same federal regulations apply to LGBTQI+ individuals and couples as to any other U.S. citizens. However, some countries have stricter laws regarding the adoption by same-sex couples and LGBTQI+ individuals. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure the country you are considering for adoption is open to LGBTQI+ parents.
Is International Adoption Right for You?
There are numerous reasons why parents might opt for international adoption over domestic options. It might stem from a desire to foster inclusivity or a personal connection to a specific country. However, consider the legitimacy of your chosen agency and how well you understand the culture of the country you are adopting from. Are you prepared to help your child navigate any culture shock or trauma associated with international adoption?
Ultimately, every child deserves a loving family, whether found through domestic or international means. As you ponder this journey, it’s crucial to educate yourself and understand the complexities involved fully. For further insights, check out this excellent resource on in vitro fertilisation.
Summary
International adoption can be a rewarding yet complex journey. Understanding the eligibility requirements, processes, costs, and cultural considerations is essential for prospective parents. Whether you choose to adopt domestically or internationally, educating yourself is vital to ensure that every child finds a loving and supportive home.