State Recognition of Intercountry Adoptions Finalized Abroad - Texas

Date: April 2018

Effect and Recognition of a Foreign Adoption Decree

Citation: Family Code § 162.023(a)

An adoption order rendered to a resident of this State that is made by a foreign country shall be accorded full faith and credit by the courts of this State and enforced as if the order were rendered by a court in this State, unless the adoption law or process of the foreign country violates the fundamental principles of human rights or the laws or public policy of this State.

Readoption After an Intercountry Adoption

Citation: Family Code § 162.023(b)

Adoptive parents may petition the court for registration of a foreign adoption decree that was issued abroad and may combine the petition for registration with a petition for a name change.

Application for a U.S. Birth Certificate

Citation: Family Code § 162.023(b)

If the court finds that the foreign adoption order meets the requirements of this statute, the court shall order the State Registrar to:

  • Register the order under chapter 192, Health and Safety Code
  • File a certificate of birth for the child under § 192.006, Health and Safety Code

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