March 04, 2020
Are You Considering International Adoption?
Are you considering adopting internationally? There are thousands of children and young adults around the world that need a loving, safe, and supportive home. When considering international adoption, you’ll want to take into account how it differs from domestic adoption, including logistically, financially, and legally. Because of this, you’ll need to work with an adoption agency and legal team that is adept at handling international adoptions.
You cannot adopt from just any country. In fact, many countries still have laws in place that prohibit international adoption entirely. Every country that has established international adoption laws sets its restrictions and vetting process for adoptive families. This process includes checking the age of the adoptive parents, investigating the finances and physical health of the family, inquiring about other children in the home, and more. Some countries, like Uganda, will require that a family fosters the child within their country for a certain amount of time before allowing the adoption process to continue. Adoptive Families has provided a comprehensive overview highlighting the demographics of international adoptions while explaining which countries are easiest or more popular from which to adopt.
Doing your research is paramount. Making sure that you have enlisted the most responsible and competent professional assistance will help ensure your adoption goes smoothly. Think about your morals, values, and ethics and find an agency that aligns with your belief system. An agency should also be licensed and accredited. While some international agencies come highly recommended, as in all things adoption, you’ll want to make sure it’s an ideal fit for you. If you’re going to investigate further any agencies with whom you are considering working, you can access any complaints filed against the agency through the government’s official website.
Adopting a child from another country will impact your life profoundly. Your unit will become multicultural, and your heart, mind, and soul will grow in ways that you didn’t know were possible. Build your family’s support system so that your new child’s culture can be maintained and celebrated throughout their life. They deserve to know where they come from, it’s your responsibility to guide and support them in that effort. Throughout this process, you will learn so much about the world and yourself; but most of all, you will gain a new member of your family.
