The intercountry adoption process varies depending on the State where the prospective parents reside, the adoption agency, and the country involved. In every case, prospective adoptive parents must meet the basic requirements of U.S. immigration law, and all children adopted through intercountry adoption must obtain a visa from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. When considering intercountry adoption, prospective parents should also learn about the social and cultural context in which their adoptive child was born and assess whether they can meet their child's needs. Take a look at your community and surroundings and ask yourself whether it is welcoming and comfortable for your child and your new multicultural family. You should also consider how you will support your child’s ongoing racial and cultural identity. This section contains information and resources on the intercountry adoption process and how to get started.
Adoption Service Provider Search
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs
Allows for the search of adoption service providers accredited or approved to provide adoption services for parents adopting from countries that are parties to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption.
Adoption Statistics
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs
Provides statistics on international adoption in the United States for the most recent fiscal year data available. Results can be sorted by country, State, year, and more.
Annual Report on Intercountry Adoption
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Office of Children's Issues
Offers data and statistics on intercountry adoption in the United States by fiscal year and discusses efforts to establish or maintain adoptions from other countries as a viable option for children in need of permanency around the world.
Convention Countries
U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs
Lists countries that are parties to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption.
Intercountry Adoption
U.S. Department of State
Provides an overview of the intercountry adoption process including information about the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and the immigrant visa process.