Adopting a child internationally is a beautiful way to grow your family, but it’s also a complex legal process. Here’s a breakdown of the key legal steps involved in international adoption.

Choose an Adoption Agency

The first step in international adoption is selecting an accredited adoption agency. It’s essential to work with a licensed agency that is experienced in international adoptions and familiar with the specific requirements of the country where you’re adopting. 

Complete a Home Study

A home study is a thorough evaluation of your family’s readiness for adoption. This includes background checks, home visits, and interviews with all household members. The home study ensures that you can provide a safe and loving environment for the child.

File Form I-600A or I-800A

After completing the home study, you’ll need to file either Form I-600A or I-800A, depending on whether the country you’re adopting from is part of The Hague Adoption Convention. These forms serve as a petition to adopt a child from a foreign country and allow the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to determine your eligibility as an adoptive parent.

Match With a Child

Once your petition is approved, the matching process begins. Your adoption agency will work with foreign authorities tofind a child who matches your family’s preferences and needs. When a match is made, you’ll receive information about the child’s background, including health records and personal history.

Obtain a Visa for Your Child

Once you’ve officially adopted the child in their home country, you’ll need to secure an immigrant visa so they can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. The specific visa you’ll need depends on the child’s country of origin and whether the adoption was finalized abroad or in the U.S.

Finalize the Adoption

After your child arrives in the U.S., you may need to finalize the adoption in a U.S. court, depending on the laws of your state. This ensures that the adoption is fully recognized and that your child becomes a U.S. citizen.

If you’re considering international adoption and need guidance through the legal process, contact SA Law for expert assistance.