International Adoption Lawyers in Folsom, CA
Helping People Nationwide & Worldwide
Are you interested in adopting a child from another country? The domestic and international adoption landscape has changed significantly over the past decade, making family creation an option available to a broader audience than ever before. International adoption involves procedures and requirements that can be especially challenging, requiring much patience and persistence.
How Our International Adoption Attorneys in Folsom Can Help!
If you intend to adopt a child from abroad, our Folsom international adoption attorney can:
- Make sure the adoption agency you're interested in is a good one
- Oversee home studies, visa permits, and counseling sessions
- Collaborate closely with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS)
At Law Office of Tiffany L. Andrews, P.C., we represent families nationwide and worldwide, providing you with knowledgeable, individualized support at each stage of your adoption process. Let us handle the legal burdens and protocol details so you can focus on growing your new family!
Types of International Adoption
Adopting a child from another country comes with different processes depending on where the child is from and their specific needs. Here are some common types of international adoption:
- Hague vs. Non-Hague Adoption – The Hague Adoption Convention ensures ethical adoption practices and safeguards children's rights. Countries that are part of the convention follow stricter guidelines. Non-Hague adoptions may have different processes, requiring additional legal steps.
- Relative & Kinship Adoption – Some families adopt relatives from other countries, such as nieces, nephews, or grandchildren. While this can simplify the adoption process, immigration laws still apply, and legal paperwork must be completed correctly.
- Special Needs Adoption – Some children available for international adoption have medical, developmental, or emotional challenges. Adoptive parents should be prepared for additional medical care, therapy, and long-term support.
Ready to Begin Your International Adoption? Let us guide you through the legal process. Contact us today at (916) 794-4576 for a consultation.
The International Adoption Process
On the whole, the international adoption process entails the following steps:
- Choose an international adoption agency, submit an application to the agency, and complete the home study (process typically lasts about several weeks to several months)
- Once your application has been approved, you will be placed on an international adoption waitlist
- After a child who meets your specified requirements is available (Note: this could take a year or several years), you will be notified
- You'll have the opportunity to visit, get matched with the child, and provide special needs of the child (such as vaccinations, therapy, and education)
- Assuming all goes well, you will depart the country with your new child
- Resume living in your home country/state and settle into your new family
- Throughout this process, your international adoption agency must help you to submit the necessary paperwork and visa clearance
- Note: representative requirements for the international adoption will depend on the country strategically chosen for adoption
International adoption concerns certain requirements that are not found in domestic adoption. You'll have to determine how to handle the long-term financial responsibilities and emotional challenges of adoption. You'll need to select an international adoption agency and monitor it to find out if it has had an ethical reputation and can meet your needs and budget.
Legal Requirements for International Adoption
Each country has its own adoption laws, and the U.S. government has specific immigration steps for bringing an adopted child into the country.
- U.S. Immigration & Visa Process – To legally bring an adopted child to the U.S., parents must complete a visa process through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This includes Form I-600 or I-800, depending on whether the adoption is from a Hague or non-Hague country.
- Country-Specific Adoption Laws – Every country has unique adoption laws regarding eligibility, consent, and timelines. Some nations require adoptive parents to visit multiple times before completing the adoption, while others may have residency requirements.
- Parental Eligibility Requirements – Most countries set rules on who can adopt, including age, marital status, income level, and criminal background checks. Prospective parents should review these requirements before selecting a country for adoption.
Challenges & Considerations in International Adoption
International adoption is rewarding but also comes with challenges. Understanding these factors ahead of time can help families prepare.
- Emotional & Cultural Adjustments – Children may struggle with language barriers, cultural differences, and attachment issues. Families should provide emotional support, counseling, and cultural integration activities.
- Costs & Financial Planning – International adoption can be expensive, often ranging from $20,000 to $50,000. Expenses include travel, agency fees, legal paperwork, and medical exams. Grants, loans, and tax credits may help offset costs.
- Ethical Adoption Practices – Unfortunately, adoption fraud and unethical practices exist. Families should work with reputable agencies to ensure the adoption is legitimate and the child's best interests are protected.
Adopting internationally requires patience and careful planning, but with the right legal guidance, families can navigate the process successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About International Adoption
How long does the international adoption process take?
- The process can take anywhere from one to five years, depending on the country, adoption agency, and legal requirements. Factors like paperwork, visa processing, and waitlists for child referrals can affect the timeline.
Can single parents adopt internationally?
- Yes, but eligibility depends on the country. Some countries allow single-parent adoptions, while others require adoptive parents to be married. It’s important to check country-specific rules before starting the process.
Do I need to travel to the child’s country for adoption?
- Most international adoptions require at least one visit, while some countries mandate multiple trips or even temporary residency before finalizing the adoption.
What medical exams are required for the adopted child?
- Before coming to the U.S., children must undergo medical screenings, including vaccinations and tests for infectious diseases. Some children may need additional medical care or developmental support after adoption.
Will my adopted child automatically become a U.S. citizen?
In many cases, yes. If the adoption is finalized abroad and meets U.S. immigration requirements, the child can receive automatic citizenship under the Child Citizenship Act. However, additional paperwork may be required for non-Hague adoptions.
What happens if the adoption is disrupted?
- In rare cases, an adoption may not proceed due to legal issues, changes in country policies, or personal circumstances. Families should have legal support and a plan in place to handle unexpected challenges.
Are there age limits for adoptive parents?
- Each country sets its own minimum and maximum age limits for adoptive parents. Some require parents to be at least 25 years old, while others may have an upper age limit based on the child's age.
Hire a Lawyer to Guide You with International Adoption
Adoptions are complex processes. However, they are made even more so when they involve other countries' legal systems and rules. If you need to adopt internationally, get in touch with our skilled, experienced international adoption lawyer in Folsom who can walk you through the entire adoption process, making it easier for you, your family, and your new family member-to-be.
Need Help with Adoption Laws? Our experienced attorneys are here to assist you. Contact us now at (916) 794-4576 to get started.
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