International Adoptions

As the availability of newborns in the United States diminishes, more Americans are turning to international adoptions. Like so many other immigration procedures, the first step in adopting a child from another country is the filing of an application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) department. In most cases, international adoptions are finalized in the country of origin, so once you come home with your child, he or she is already legally yours.

International adoption laws, policies and requirements

According to the Huntington immigration law firm of Wilner & O'Reilly, APLC, in order to adopt a child from a foreign country, you must meet certain minimum standards, as defined by the U.S. government and by the country from which you are planning to adopt a child. In fact, each country has its own unique adoption policies that prospective adoptive parents must meet.

Ensuring ethical international adoption practices

The ratification by the United States and other countries of The Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Inter-Country Adoption ensures ethical adoption practices. A Huntington Beach immigration lawyer at Wilner & O'Reilly, APLC can provide you with more detailed information about The Hague adoption treaty and how it relates to your international adoption.

Most common places for international adoptions

Children are available from more than fifty countries in Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and some African countries. No children from Western Europe, Australia, or Canada are eligible to be adopted by Americans.

Some of the common and most popular international adoption programs are in China, Guatemala, Russia, Ethiopia, and South Korea. In fact, in 2008, about 75 percent of foreign children adopted in the United States came from these countries.

Because the international adoption process is time-consuming and bureaucratic, it is most likely that you will not be able to adopt a child from birth. If you are interested in adopting a child from a foreign country, you should consult with a citizenship lawyer in Huntington Beach at Wilner & O'Reilly, APLC, for more information.

Legal guidance from immigration experts

International adoption is a complex process with many legal issues to resolve before you can add to your family. An immigration attorney in Huntington Beach at Wilner & O'Reilly, APLC can provide expert advice and representation. Contact a citizenship attorney at our aw firm today.