Question 1

Who can adopt a child from India through Adopt International?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible to adopt from India, the following criteria must be met:
1. At least one spouse must be a US citizen.
2. Couples must be married for a minimum of 2 years.
3. Same sex couples will not be eligible.
4. Single women are eligible.
5. PAPs must be financially stable with the ability to comfortably support a child.
6. PAPs with a history of substance abuse, unstable relationships, serious medical illness or unstable mental health will not be eligible. PAPs with a legal history will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
7. PAPs with a history of domestic or child abuse will not be eligible.

Question 2

How do I start the process to adopt from India?

Accepted Answer

If you or your partner (if applicable) qualify for intercountry adoption in India (see 1. above), we would like to schedule some time with you to complete a consultation and answer your questions about our India program. Email your inquiry to adopt@adoptinter.org.(adopt@adoptinter.org)

Question 3

What is CARA, and how does it impact the adoption process?

Accepted Answer

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is India’s Central Authority that oversees in-country and inter-country adoptions for India. Adopt International is privileged to be licensed by CARA for international adoptions from India. India follows the best practices and standards according to the Hague adoption guidelines. Efforts are made to reunite or maintain the child with their biological family, and when not possible to seek a domestic family first and then an international adoptive family. CARA is the entity that matches children in good health with prospective adoptive families.

Question 4

What’s the difference between Hague and non-Hague adoption?

Accepted Answer

[taken from NCFA site](https://adoptioncouncil.org/article/addressing-convention-country-questions-hague-v-non-hague-country-fact-sheet/)

A Hague Country is a country that has signed and implemented the international treaty referred to as the Hague Convention on Adoption. It is an international agreement to establish safeguards so that intercountry adoptions take place in the best interests of the child. The Convention entered into force for the United States in April 2008. The Hague Adoption Convention applies to adoptions between the United States and the other countries that have also joined it. The Hague regulates the way adoptions are carried out and provides certain procedural safeguards internationally instead of leaving the procedure up to individual countries.

A non-Hague Country is a country that has not signed and implemented the Hague Convention on Adoption.

Note: The Universal Accreditation Act (UAA), requires that adoption service providers in the U.S. who are working with prospective adoptive parents in non-Hague adoptions must comply with the same accreditation requirement and standards for all children, regardless of their country of origin.

Question 5

What are the costs involved in adopting from India?

Accepted Answer

Please inquire for the most up to date costs/fees associated with our India Country Program. Email adopt@adoptinter.org.(adopt@adoptinter.org)

Question 6

Can I adopt a relative from India if I live in the U.S.?

Question 7

What kinds of medical or background information will I receive?

Question 8

Can I move to India and foster the child?

Question 9

Are children in orphanages or foster care?

Question 10

Who is eligible for a relative adoption from India under U.S. and Indian law?

Accepted Answer

It is important to note that USCIS only approves those cases where a child has become orphaned or when the biological parents, if living, are incapable of providing care for the child.

• The Prospective Adoptive Parents:
    • At least one spouse must be a US citizen.
    • Couples must be married for a minimum of 2 years. 
    • Same sex couples will not be eligible.
    • Single women or single men are eligible. 
    • PAPs must be financially stable with the ability to comfortably support a child.
    • PAPs should not have any history of domestic or child abuse.

The children:
 • The child(ren) to be adopted must be from the PAPs family tree.
 • Orphaned or clear factual evidence that the birth parent/parents are incapable of providing care for their child due to financial, mental health or medical issues.

Question 11

Who qualifies as a “relative” under Indian and U.S. adoption law?

Accepted Answer

The child must be from the PAPs family as verified by a family tree. They can be the child of a sibling, cousin, niece or nephew.

Question 12

What is the legal process for completing a relative adoption from India to the U.S.?

Accepted Answer

For relative adoptions we use the Hague process. On the US side there is no difference in process as USCIS issues the I800A, I800 and Article 5 approvals as with all adoptions.  On the India side there are a few additional steps involved. As the child is living with family members, there are no child referral documents.  Instead, the District Child Protective Unit (DCPU) where the child resides conducts a family background verification. The parent or guardian of the child in India is interviewed, documents are verified, and a family background report is generated by DCPU which serves as the child study report. CARA then issues a pre-approval letter approving the adoption plan.  The adoption order is issued by the District Magistrates office, or a family court if the child resides in Maharashtra State.  CARA then issues a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and a Certificate of Conformity validating that the adoption has taken place as per the Hague process.

Question 13

Are relative adoptions subject to the Hague process, or are they handled differently?

Accepted Answer

Relative adoptions are subject to the same Hague process as all other adoptions from India.

Question 14

What documentation is required for a relative adoption?

Accepted Answer

As with all India adoptions, documents validating stability of the Prospective Adoption Parents are needed. The homestudy process is required and conversations will focus on trauma, adjustment and appropriate developmental stages depending on the child’s age. Homestudy documents include doctor and employer letters, letters of reference, and fingerprint clearances.

In India, documents specific to a relative adoption include letters of relinquishment by a parent or guardian, death certificates of the biological parent if applicable, police reports if the birth parents has been incarcerated, letters from a doctor or therapist if the child is being relinquished due to medical or psychological instability of the birth parent. A medical report of the child to be adopted, and a letter of consent to the adoption plan if the child is over age 5, are also needed.

Question 15

What if I already adopted the child in India?

Question 16

What are the most common challenges or delays in relative adoptions?

Question 17

Are adoptive parents required to travel to India?

Question 18

What kind of post-adoption reporting is required by both the U.S. and India in a relative adoption?

Question 19

Who is eligible to adopt a Special Needs child from India under U.S. and Indian law?

Accepted Answer

• At least one spouse must be a US citizen.
 • Couples must be married for a minimum of 2 years.
 • Same sex couples will not be eligible.
 • Single women are eligible. 
 • PAPs must be financially stable with the ability to comfortably support a child.
 • PAPs with a history of substance abuse, unstable relationships, serious medical illness or unstable mental health will not be eligible. PAPs with a legal history will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
 • Share Children listed on the CARA Portal are available to OCI and NRI families only, for the first 14 days.  Therefore, the children with mild, manageable or correctable needs usually get reserved in the first 14 days.  After 14 days non OCI or NRI PAPs may reserve the child.
 • Families without OCI or NRI status must be open to a child with a moderate need.

Question 20

What are common mild to moderate special needs seen among waiting children?

Accepted Answer

In the last few years Adopt International has placed a number of children with mild, moderate and severe hearing loss, cleft lip and palate, minor/correctable  heart issues (ASD, VSD, PFO, PDA), metabolic disorders, HIV +, born to a birth mother who was HIV+, premature birth, low weight, kidney issues, club foot, and amblyopia.

We also see children on the list with downsyndrome, missing digits or limbs, skeletal dysplasia, missing eye, and other more severe medical needs.

Question 21

Does the process differ in any way from that of a child in good health?

Accepted Answer

Yes, typically the wait time is much shorter for families open to special needs, as the list is typically updated weekly. There is no penalty for considering a child and not moving forward with the match. Once the match is made the adoption and visa processes are the same as a child in good health.

Question 22

Are timelines typically shorter for special needs adoptions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, timelines are typically shorter for special needs adoptions. We have seen wait times vary from 4 days to 3 years. Typically families that are open to considering a child with known special needs are matched in about a year.

Once the match is accepted the timeline is similar to a child in good health. 
 • What support is available to help families prepare for parenting a child with identified needs?
Pediatricians who specialize in adoption medicine are amazing resources to help PAPs evaluate potential child referrals and also in preparing PAPS to parent the child.  Local Children’s Hospitals can also be a wealth of information. Adopt International can connect you to other families who have already adopted a child with an identified need to chat about their experience.. 
 • Are there resources or training Adopt International recommends or requires?
These two medical clinics have assisted families with international adoptions for decades.
 • University of Minnesota Adoption Medicine Clinic (https://med.umn.edu/adoption)
 • International Adoption Clinic at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital.(https://www.childrenshospitaloakland.org/main/departments-services/international-adoption-clinic-35.aspx)
 
The National Council for Adoption has some great resources for families considering adopting a child with special needs.
 https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/children-with-medical-special-needs-considering-the-impact-on-child-development/(https://adoptioncouncil.org/publications/children-with-medical-special-needs-considering-the-impact-on-child-development/)
https://adoption.talentlms.com/plus/catalog

Question 23

What kind of post-adoption reporting is required by both the U.S. and India in a special needs adoption?

Accepted Answer

The reporting requirements for a child with a special need is the same as a child in good health. You will be seen by your social worker 4 times in the first year after arrival and 2x in the second year. These visits are intended to offer you support with your transition into parenthood or the growth of your family. The reports are sent back to CARA and the child’s orphanage. Compliance with post adoption reports helps to keep countries open to intercountry adoption.

Question 24

Who is eligible to adopt a child in good health from India under U.S. and Indian law?

Accepted Answer

1. At least one spouse must be a US citizen.
2. Couples must be married for a minimum of 2 years.
3. Same sex couples will not be eligible.
4. Single women are eligible. 
5. PAPs must be financially stable with the ability to comfortably support a child.
6. PAPs with a history of substance abuse, unstable relationships, serious medical illness or unstable mental health will not be eligible. PAPs with a legal history will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
7. The combined age of the PAPs determines eligibility with regard to the age of the child desired. CARA counts age in years, months and days
   1. PAPs with combined age of less than 85 years, or under age 40 for singles, can request a child ages 0 to 2 years.
   2. PAPs with a combined age of less than 90 years, or under age 45 for singles, can request a child ages 2 to 4 years.
   3. PAPs with a combined age of less than 100 years, or under age 50 for singles, can request a child ages 4 to 8 years.
   4. PAPs with combined age of less than 110 years, or under age 55 for singles, can request a child ages 8 to 18 years. 
   5. There must be a minimum age gap of 25 years between the PAPs and the child.

Question 25

What is CARA, and how does it govern intercountry adoption from India?

Accepted Answer

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) is India’s Central Authority that oversees in-country and inter-country  adoptions for India. India follows the best practices and standards according to the Hague adoption guidelines.

Question 26

What is the typical age range and profile of children available for adoption?

Accepted Answer

Children between the ages of 0-16 years are available for adoption. Children available for adoption may be orphaned or abandoned due to poverty or teenage pregnancies, and other family situations. Thorough investigations take place to locate the parents of an abandoned child and counseling is offered to birth parents relinquishing a child. Only those children declared to be legally free for adoption are referred to the PAPs.

Question 27

What are the steps in the process (home study, USCIS approval, CARA registration, matching, travel)? How long does the adoption process from India usually take?

Accepted Answer

The adoption process from India depends on numerous factors. 
 • Families  must complete their home study through a Hague-accredited agency.  For families living in CA or HI, Adopt International will conduct the homestudy. For families in other States, Adopt International will help the family identify a Hague accredited agency in their State and both agencies will contract to work together on different parts of the adoption process. 
 • A homestudy process requires the PAPS to turn in a lot of documents.  If a family prioritizes making time to provide all the required documents, a homestudy can be completed in 8-12 weeks. 
 • Once the HS is complete, families complete the  I800A form; Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country and await USCIS approval. 
 • While awaiting I800A approval, PAPs submit the documents required for their CARA registration so that the agency can register them with CARA. 
 • PAPS  typically receive I800A approval in about 8-10 weeks. 
 • Approval time for the CARA application can vary from a few weeks to several months. 
 • PAPs that are only open to considering a child in good health must be prepared to wait for a long time. The wait time is not predictable and changes as more children get added to CARA’s database. Currently it takes about 4 years to be matched with a child in good health. 
 • Male and female children are available, and families may indicate a gender preference. This may impact your wait time.
 • PAPS may indicate 3 preferred States of Choice or a zone of choice, though this may extend the wait time for a referral.
Contact adopt@adoptinter.org (mailto:adopt@adoptinter.org)to inquiry about current wait times.

Question 28

What is the average timeline for a  referral of a child in good health?

Accepted Answer

The wait time for a referral is lengthy and unpredictable and can take up to 4 years. PAP’s who are open to considering children with known special medical needs or developmental delays may experience shorter wait times.

Question 29

How is the child’s health and background information shared at the time of referral?

Question 30

Do I need to travel to India? How many trips are required?

Question 31

How long until I can bring the child home after the match?

Question 32

What kind of post-adoption reporting is required by both the U.S. and India?

Question 33

How much does an adoption home study cost?

Accepted Answer

Home study fees differ between domestic and international home studies, and specific requirements. To inquire about home study fees, email adopt@adoptinter.org.(mailto:adopt@adoptinter.org)

Question 34

How long is a home study valid for?

Accepted Answer

Domestic Home Studies are generally valid for one year, and International Home Studies are generally valid until your immigration adoption approval expires.

Question 35

What happens after the home study is completed?

Accepted Answer

After your home study is completed, it is submitted to your placing agency to be presented to birth families (for domestic adoptions) or submitted as part of your country dossier and USCIS immigration application (for international adoptions).

Question 36

What if I move to a different state after my homestudy approval?

Accepted Answer

Home studies are prepared specifically to meet each state’s regulations. For families who are moving from one state to another, we may be able to work with your previous agencies and “endorse” your previous home study, which means we may be able to reuse some information from your previous home study and reduce the time and fees to update your home study.

Question 37

Does a home study look different for domestic vs. international adoption?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both domestic and international home studies must meet state requirements; however, international home studies must also meet Hague and country-specific requirements. International home studies involve more training and more child abuse clearance(s).

Question 38

What kind of background checks are included?

Question 39

Do all household members need to be part of the home study?

Question 40

Will social workers interview my children or other family members?

Question 41

Can I start an adoption without a completed home study?

Question 42

What are common reasons a home study is delayed or denied?

Question 43

How do I update my home study if my situation changes?

Question 44

Is the home study process confidential?

Question 45

What is an open adoption?

Accepted Answer

Open adoption allows for some level of ongoing contact between birth parents, adoptive parents, and the child. This can include sharing photos, letters, phone calls, or even in-person visits. The level of openness can be flexible and based on what everyone is comfortable with.

Question 46

Is open adoption legally binding in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in California, open adoption agreements can be legally enforceable if they're in writing and approved by the court as part of the adoption process. However, the agreement must serve the best interests of the child, and all parties must voluntarily agree to the terms.

Question 47

Can I choose the adoptive family for my baby?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In open adoption, birth parents have the opportunity to choose the adoptive family. You can review profiles, talk with potential families, and even meet them to decide who feels like the right fit for your child.

Question 48

What kind of contact is possible in an open adoption?

Accepted Answer

Contact can range from occasional updates and photo exchanges to regular visits, depending on what you and the adoptive family agree on. Every open adoption is unique, and the level of contact is tailored to what works best for everyone involved.

Question 49

Can I change the amount of contact after the adoption?

Accepted Answer

Yes, contact can change over time based on mutual agreement. Relationships evolve, and it's common for families to adjust their level of contact to reflect what’s best for the child and for everyone involved.

Question 50

What if I decide I don’t want contact after the adoption?

Question 51

Will my child know who I am?

Question 52

How do adoptive parents feel about open adoption?

Question 53

Is open adoption confusing for the child?

Question 54

Can I meet the adoptive family before the baby is born?

Question 55

Can I change my mind after the baby is born?

Question 56

Is Adopt International accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Adopt International is Hague accredited (by IAAME) and licensed (CA and HI) to provide adoption services. We meet all state, federal, and international standards for ethical adoption practices. This accreditation ensures that families and children receive the highest level of transparency, support, and legal compliance throughout the adoption process.

Question 57

How long does the adoption process usually take?

Accepted Answer

The length of the adoption process can vary depending on the type of adoption (domestic, international, or foster care), the country involved (for international adoptions), and individual circumstances. On average, it can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months. Our team will walk with you every step of the way to help keep things moving forward as smoothly as possible.

Question 58

What is a Home Study, and why is it required?

Accepted Answer

A Home Study is a comprehensive assessment that ensures adoptive families are prepared and qualified to provide a safe, loving home for a child through adoption. It includes interviews, background checks, home visits, lots of paperwork, and education. The Home Study is required by both state and international adoption laws and helps match families with the right child based on their strengths and readiness.

Question 59

Can I adopt from another country if I live in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes, California residents can adopt internationally. Adopt International is licensed to provide international adoption services and will help you meet U.S. immigration and California, or Hawaii, state regulations.

Question 60

What support is available after the adoption is finalized?

Accepted Answer

You will likely be required to complete a number of post adoption visits so that reports can be sent back to your child’s country of origin to update them on how you all are doing, your child’s growth and adjustment. Each country determines how many visits and reports are needed and the timing of such.

Post-adoption support is a key part of our commitment to families. We offer resources such as counseling, support groups, referrals, and educational materials. Whether you have questions about parenting, cultural connection, or adjustment challenges, our team is here to provide ongoing support well after your adoption is complete.

Question 61

How much does an adoption home study cost in California?

Accepted Answer

Home study fees different between domestic and international home study and specific requirements. To inquire about home study fees, email adopt@adoptinter.org.(mailto:adopt@adoptinter.org)

Question 62

How long is a home study valid for?

Accepted Answer

Domestic Home Studies are generally valid for one year and International Home Studies are generally valid until your immigration adoption approval expires.

Question 63

What happens after the home study is completed?

Accepted Answer

After your home study is completed, it is submitted to your placing agency to be presented to birth families (for domestic adoptions) or submitted as part of your country dossier and USCIS immigration application (for international adoptions).

Question 64

Can a home study from another state be used in California?

Accepted Answer

No, home studies are prepared specifically to meet each state’s regulation. For families who are moving from one state to another, we may be able to work with your previous agencies and “endorse” your previous home study, which means we may be able to reuse some information from your previous home study and reduce the time and fees to update your home study.

California Adoption Agency - Adopt International

How to give a baby up for adoption