Adopting a child internationally is a complicated procedure that requires commitment by the adoptive parents. Because the adoption takes place between two countries, each with different laws, various changes can occur during the process, which can be frustrating. Careful research, planning and flexibility can all support a successful international adoption.
Choose an Agency
Parents must choose an agency that will provide information about a prospective child. The agency helps with paperwork, translation and fees required to complete the process. Check references, licensure and accreditation, and any other criteria before committing to an agency.
Background Check
Prospective adoptive parents must undergo background checks before being eligible to adopt. Federal guidelines require all adoptive parents to have a criminal background check and fingerprint clearance. State laws vary, and parents may need to be checked for a history of adult abuse or crimes against children, depending on requirements.
Home Study
The home study is a process of filing paperwork explaining the parents' backgrounds. The required paperwork includes a short autobiography, character references and employment letters. A social worker will interview the adoptive parents to discuss their feelings about adoption, interracial families and cultural differences. The social worker also inspects the home for safety.
Immigration
Children adopted internationally become citizens of the United States after joining a U.S. family, and parents must file the child's immigration paperwork before traveling. According to the U.S. Department of Citizenship and Immigration, a child is issued a visa from the U.S. Consulate located in his birth country. The type of visa depends on the laws of the birth country.
The Dossier
A dossier is a collection of documents that are certified before being sent to a child’s birth country. The dossier includes items such as the home study report; immigration clearance; parent birth certificates; and copies of U.S. passports. These will be checked by government officials in the child’s birth country before approval of the adoption.
The Match
Parents may find out about their child in several ways. Some begin the home study after being matched with a child. Others undergo much of the process and then wait to be matched. Parents may receive photographs, medical history and social background information about their child. Getting a child match is an exciting time for parents.
Waiting
Waiting can be difficult for parents who wonder when their child is coming home. Researching information for after the adoption, such as finding a pediatrician or daycare, may help fill time. Parents can also focus on projects around the house, as there may be little time after the child comes home.
Travel
Not all countries require adoptive parents to travel, but many parents want to visit their child's birth country. Parents can plan ahead by making lists of what they need, learning foreign language phrases, and researching sightseeing in the country.
Meeting
Meeting the child is thrilling for parents. While parents may be very excited, the child may be anxious. She may not want to leave her situation and might be frightened. Parents who show concern and understanding will ease transitional feelings of a child.
Post-Placement
The time after an adoption can be one of adjustment, and a child may experience grief, despair or anger. He may act out or appear withdrawn. Post-placement visits by a social worker show whether the child is growing well. Each visit should represent growth and adjustment since the previous visit. No family is perfect, and all members should have a chance to work through issues, resulting in a successful adoption.
References
- United States Department of State Office of Children’s Issues: Working with an Agency
- Come Unity: The Adoption Home Study
- Child Welfare Information Gateway: Criminal Background Checks for Prospective Foster and Adoptive Parents
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: Before Your Child Immigrates to the U.S.
- “Successful Adoption: A Guide for Christian Families”; Natalie Nichols Gillespie; 2006
