Finding an Agency
Most people who decide to adopt a child from another country must use an adoption agency to guide them through the process. Before hiring an agency, the parents must decide from which country they want to adopt. Then they can choose an adoption agency that specializes in adoptions from that region.
Agency Approval
The prospective parents and the agency will set up an orientation and a home visit, so the adoption agency can assess the individual's or couple's readiness to adopt a child. The agency representative interviews the prospective parents thoroughly and investigates their home to make sure it is a safe and comfortable environment for a child. Background checks will also be made during this time. Some agencies require the new parents to attend workshops during this time to begin preparing for having a child.
Assignment of a Child
After the prospective parents are approved by the agency, there may be a waiting period while the agency finds suitable matches in the desired country. Once a match is found, the hopeful parents will be presented with photographs, medical reports and background information on the child. At this time, the individual or couple has the choice of whether to accept the assignment or turn it down to wait for another assignment.
Bringing the Child Home
Once an assignment is accepted, the agency will begin preparing the paperwork required by the child's home country. Once that has been taken care of, the new parents are, in most cases, required to travel to the child's home country to pick him up. The agency will help make travel plans and assist with any difficulties while the parents are abroad.
