International Adoption Agency

From LoveToKnow Baby

Many people turn to an international adoption agency for help with the adoption process. Adoptions from foreign countries, such as China and Russia, are popular choices for those who are interested in adoption.

Why Use an International Adoption Agency?

You might think that with all of the information that the Internet has to offer, you can successfully venture into the world of adoption with as little help as possible. For example, you can find support and information from forums like:

While you can gain valuable insight into the world of international adoption, you may be making a grave mistake to assume you can save money without professional help. Adoption agencies, especially those specializing in international adoption, know the legal ins and outs of the country from which you might adopt your child. They are familiar with adoption laws, and they can help you avoid many of the risks associated with adopting.

Independent Adoptions

In some cases, people might be tempted to participate in an independent adoption rather than seek the services of an international adoption agency. The risks are significant, however, and may include the following:

Parents who choose this route may find themselves in the midst of an illegal black market, which is basically the business of baby selling.
Parents may receive inadequate and even dishonest legal proceedings, spending lot of time and money without ever being able to adopt a child.
Parents may experience the heartbreak of finding out the child they've already met and come to love is not legally available for adoption or isn't allowed to leave the country.

Choosing an Agency

Now that you are more aware of the risks involved in the adoption process, how do you safely choose an international adoption agency? Keep the following points in mind:

Look for a licensed agency. The agency should be licensed in your state.
Licensed agencies should have good reputations. An agency should have received its license based upon the qualifications set aside by the licensing commission. However, just because an agency is licensed doesn't mean it is a topnotch agency.
Look for an agency that has received an accreditation through the Council on Accreditation. This typically assures this organization is highly competent and ethical in handling the adoption process for its clients.
Refer to the Child Welfare Information Gateway's Website. You should be able to find out information regarding your state's licensing procedures and locate a licensing specialist. These specialists can answer your questions regarding a particular international adoption agency, including any inquiries into complaints against the agency.
Contact the Better Business Bureau. If the Better Business Bureau in the area doesn't handle complaints regarding adoption agencies, then contact the Federal Trade Commission.
Ask for references, and check them out. You'll want to find out about the agency's services to their clients during the adoption process, as well as any post-adoptive services the agency offers.