Adoption

If you're interested in adopting a child from a foreign country, you may be worried by what may seem like complicated and time-consuming procedures and requirements. Actually international adoptions can be quicker and easier than domestic adoptions, which is why they have become so popular with U.S. adoptive parents. What steps do you have to go through?

Steps for International Adoption

First of all, find a reputable international adoption agency. One of the best places to find a recommended agency is on the Internet. You'll need an approved, accredited agency because foreign governments will only work with accredited agencies to guarantee the safety of the child.

Your agency will require a "home study." A home study is a report which details your suitability as a parent. It will include copies of your birth certificate, and those for each family member; your marriage certificate, if you are married; a statement from the local police saying you have no criminal record; and a photocopy of your last medical check-up from your doctor saying that you have no health problems.

Your agency will then assist you in filling out forms from the INS (Immigration and Naturalization Service). You will need their approval for your child's visa. Then the agency will lead you through the possibilities for your adoption. They will suggest different countries where adoptions are available and let you see photos of prospective children and communicate with other adoptive parents who have gone through the process. Once you've decided on your child, you will then make arrangements through the agency to travel to the foreign country to meet the child.