International Adoption Agencies

About International Adoption Agencies

For the past several decades since Korean War, Americans have adopted thousands of children from other parts of the world.

Why do parents adopt internationally? Reasons may include:

• Ethnicity: In some cases, families want to adopt children with their own ethnic background.
• Need: For some, the choice to pursue an international adoption is all about the need to provide a home and a new life for an underprivileged child.
• Wait Times: Wait times may be shorter for international adoptions than for American adoptions.
• Expense: Depending upon the situation, the expense of an international adoption may be somewhat reduced. However, it's important to realize that this isn't always the case.

How Does the Process Work?

Most adoptions are handled through private international adoption agencies. In some cases, parents have found success in adopting a child from another country by using an independent attorney and working on their own, but this can be tricky. An agency can help you with all the legal issues that surround negotiating an adoption with another country.

There are definite guidelines that must be followed according to immigration laws before a child is allowed to enter the United States through adoption. For example, a child must be orphaned, abandoned, or have only one living parent who cannot care for the child. The agency you choose should also be familiar with the orphan visa law, as well as any responsibilities and risks that might be involved with the adoption.

Talk to your agency about the following topics:

• Costs: Ask for a spreadsheet that details all of the known and possible unknown costs of the adoption process, including travel expenses, medical bills, etc.
• Background of child: Find out as much as you can about the background of the child, including any family-related health issues.
• Political situations: The agency you choose should also keep you abreast of any current political changes in the country from which you are attempting to adopt.
• Support: You should also receive support not only during the adoption process, but also after the adoption has been finalized.

Agencies

Some of the many international adoption agencies include:

• Joint Council on International Children's Services: The Joint Council on International Children's Services works as an advocate for children who need permanent homes. It provides education for adoptive families and social services and government employees. The Joint Council strongly promotes ethical child welfare practices as well. The membership of this organization is comprised of international child welfare agencies, international medical clinics, advocacy and parent support groups, and more. You can access information of the main office for each agency listed.
• A Loving Choice: This organization is made of a U.S. based team and includes team members abroad as well. The agency focuses on supporting on-going humanitarian efforts for orphanages in several areas worldwide, including China, Russia, and other Eastern European countries.
• Karen's Adoption Links: This is a personal Web page that offers a variety of links.
• Eastern European Adoption Coalition: The Eastern European Adoption Coalition is an online community that unites thousands of families interested in and participating in international adoption. You can find a wealth of information and support at this site.

Government Help

When searching for help concerning international adoptions, don't overlook the valuable insight and assistance that the government can offer. For example:

• Government Agencies: This site offers a listing of all U.S. Government Departments and Agencies, which can assist you in locating appropriate governmental offices that can help you with adoption.
• Child Welfare Agencies: This is a list of agencies who are responsible for assisting in the welfare of children.
• Elected Officials: It is important to make contact with your U.S. senators and representatives. These officials may be able to help you cut through some of the red tape that often occurs with international adoptions.

Connecting with Other Parents

Finally, talk to other parents who have successfully made it through an international adoption. Don't be afraid to ask for their advice and help regarding international adoption agencies as you work to achieve your dream of adopting a child.