International Adoption.

Choosing an International Adoption Agency.

ADOPT FROM: CHINA, RUSSIA, GUATAMALA, VIETNAM,
THAILAND, KAZAKHSTAN, VIETNAM
ETHIOPIA

Many families choose international adoption for a variety of reasons. Some don’t meet the agency guidelines for domestic adoption but they qualify to work with an international adoption agency. Sometimes a family has an overwhelming concerned that the birth parents will come back and want their baby back. Others simply want to give a family to a child who really has none.

If you are considering adopting internationally, the travel times and family requirements are something to consider. Check out several different international adoption agencies - fees vary even though the processes are similar.

The top three countries which adoption visas were issued were, China, Russia and Guatemala. Many times there are several countries that work with one international adoption agency. Of course adopted children come from many many countries.

China

China adoption program is one of the most reliable and stable, and China is the country from which most U.S. citizens have elected to adopt since the year 2000. In 2005, U.S. citizens adopted approximately 7,906 children from China. Children available for adoption are mostly girls, infants to 6 years of age. Older and special needs children are also available. These children reside in orphanages.

Travel required: Yes; one parent (if married) must travel; one trip, approximately two weeks.

Singles accepted: Generally, single women, heterosexual.

Other: Post-placement reports and supervision are required for one year.
Families for Children from China
Adoptive Parents China
More Great Resources.

Russia

There are about 600,000 children without parental care in the Russia. Most children are relinquished to orphanages from hospitals due to poverty. Some children are removed from their homes due to neglect. 51% of the adoptions are girls ages 1 -4.

  • Travel required: Yes, two trips. The completion trip requires both parents.

  • Singles are accepted. There are no limits on marriage or number of children.

  • Other: Post- placement reports are required.
    • Families for Russian and Ukrainian Adoptions
    Eastern European Adoption Coalition

    Guatemala

    Important Updates 2007 Requirements: In 2005, U.S. citizens adopted approximately 3,783 children from Guatemala. Older and special needs children are also available for adoption. Children may reside in orphanages or foster care.

  • Travel required: No; if parents choose to travel, the in-country stay is approx. 4 days.

  • Singles accepted: Yes

  • Other: Prior to approval for adoption, a DNA test done by a facility authorized by U.S. authorities must be done to prove the relinquishing mother-child connection; post-placement supervision and reports are required for six months.
    • Great Site for adoption Guatemala
    Guatemala Adoptive Families Network

    Vietnam

    UPDATE: in late April 2008, Vietnam announced it would end its adoption program with the U.S., in response to a report by the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi that alleged corruption within Vietnam's adoption program. The existing pact allowing adoptions between Vietnam and the U.S. was to expire on September 1, but in a letter to the embassy, Vietnam officials, who deny the allegations, said they would not renew the pact, and would no longer accept new applications from prospective adopters after July 1. Vietnam will continue to process applications for families matched with children before July 1, until the pact expires.

  • Travel required: Yes; 2-3 week trip after refferal to bring child home

  • Singles accepted: Yes

  • Other: Prior to approval for adoption, a DNA test done by a facility authorized by U.S. authorities must be done to prove the relinquishing mother-child connection; post-placement supervision and reports are required for six months.
    • VietNam Adoption Resources

    Kazakhstan Adoption
  • Travel required: Yes, two trips. The completion trip requires both parents. 30 - 45 days.

  • Other: No pre-selection of children is allowed; matching is done in-country. (check with agencies on this however.) Post-adoption registration is required.

  • Other: Post- placement reports are required.
    • Return Home from International adoption
    Other Adoption Options
    Fundraising Ideas


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