Many military families adopt children, and while they may have unique strengths and much to offer children who need families, they also face particular challenges due to their frequent or sudden moves and overseas deployment. In this section, you will find adoption resources specific to military families.
Adopting a Child While Living Overseas
Shannon (2015)
Rainbow Kids
Describes a family’s experience of adopting a child while stationed overseas. The blog also provides information on how to get started and choosing an agency.
Adoption for Military Families
American Bar Association Adoption Network Law Center (2019)
Explains the benefits and opportunities for military families seeking to adopt and provides information regarding adoption costs, reimbursements, military health care, and other various resources.
Adoption - The Essentials
Military OneSource
Provides resources for military personnel and their families on a variety of topics, such as eligibility, consultations, and adoption options.
Adoption Resources for Military Families
AdoptUSKids
Presents resources for military families stationed overseas and within the United States, including the U.S. Department of Defense adoption reimbursement program.
Considering Military Adoption? Eight Things Service Families Should Know
Military OneSource (2019)
Lists eight things military families may encounter when adopting a child, including living overseas, travel issues, adoption assistance, and health insurance.
DoD Adoption Reimbursement Program
Defense Finance and Accounting Service
Describes the permanent adoption reimbursement program for active duty members of military services.
Local Adoption Requirements for U.S. Citizens Abroad
U.S. Department of State (2010)
Notifies U.S. citizens living abroad in another Hague Adoption Convention country who plan to adopt a child residing in the United States or a third country that the country where the adoptive parents live may require them to follow local adoption laws and procedures as the receiving country in a Convention adoption, in order for the child to enter that country legally.
Military Adoption Information
A Family for Every Child (2018)
Offers information and resources for each branch of the military, including the military adoption reimbursement program, benefits, leave, services, and more.
Military OneSource
Provides resources for military personnel and their families on a variety of topics. Click on “Family and Relationships” then "Parenting" and select adoption to view a list of resources.
NMFA Adoption Information
National Military Family Association
Provides information to military families regarding their rights, benefits, and services available to them concerning adoption. This organization promotes and protects the interests of military families by influencing the development and implementation of legislation and policies affecting them.