International Adoption

If you and your partner have decided to end fertility treatments, you may be in the process of considering other options for adding to your family.

There are a number of viable options available when it comes to becoming parents, including surrogacy and adoption.

Adoption does not always entail adopting a child from your home country, though. International adoption is rapidly becoming more and more popular throughout the United States.

Couples often find that adopting a child from another country is extremely satisfying and helps to enrich their lives in wonderful and unique ways.

What is International Adoption?
International adoption refers to the process of adopting a child from a country other than your own. This child is then brought back to your country to live with you as a part of your family.

International adoption, also referred to as inter-country adoption, is quickly becoming common practice in North America. In fact, in 2002, more than 20,000 foreign children were adopted by American citizens.

Children are often adopted from countries experiencing political chaos, economic upheaval, or extreme poverty.

Why Choose International Adoption?
There are a variety of different reasons why a couple might elect to adopt internationally.

  • International adoption allows for families to become more ethnically diverse.
  • Couples sometimes wish to adopt a child of their own culture or ethnic background.
  • The international adoption procedure is often much quicker than domestic adoption.
  • Many couples enjoy the idea of adopting a child who otherwise would grow up in poor economic or social circumstances.

Methods of International Adoption

There are two methods that you can use to undertake an international adoption: agency adoptions and independent adoptions.

Agency Adoptions
Agency adoptions are performed with the help of private, non-profit organizations that help to match adoptive parents with prospective children.

These international adoption agencies are usually highly experienced with international adoptions and therefore can help to see you through all of the legal aspects.

Most international adoption agencies are monitored by state government authorities and must adhere to stringent legal standards and policies. Some agencies specialize in completing adoptions in specific countries while others offer adoptions in numerous countries.

Agency adoptions are often more straightforward then independent adoptions, because agencies already have designated social and legal contacts in the various countries.

All agency adoptions involve a detailed homestudy, which will evaluate you and your partner’s financial, physical, and emotional stability.

Some agencies as well as countries have specific prerequisite requirements that you and your partner must meet before adopting. These prerequisites may surround age, financial status, or religious beliefs.

Table of Contents
1. Why choose international adoption?
2. Adoption Red Tape
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