There are many reasons why more parents in the United States are choosing to adopt children who were born abroad, and for many parents, this option has more appeal than choices for finding a child on the domestic front. However, although this practice is becoming increasingly common, the legal guidelines are not clearly defined and can vary wildly from country to country and even from state to state.

Tip 1 - Be prepared for the unexpected

Each situation and adoption is different, posing a unique challenge to parents as they work to expedite this situation as quickly and seamlessly as possible. However, this process involves managing delicate situations encompassing language, cultural and legal issues that cross borders.

The reality is that international adoptions often encounter unexpected twists and turns throughout the process. These can include things like paperwork processing issues, travel logistics, delays in the legal process, political issues and unfortunately sometimes even corruption play a part.

Tip 2 - Address issues abroad

A major concern for parents who are adopting children from other countries is that they are unfamiliar with the laws of that country. In order for the process to be completed in the United States, the parents must first complete the local legal processes as required by law in the other country. These laws can vary a great deal not only from one country to another but from one area of a country to another as well.

In this area, it pays to have an attorney or agency with direct experience on your side – as when it comes to international laws governing citizenship and children – you simply must abide by the rules. Many families find that this can add weeks and even months to the process if not handled correctly. And most Americans find it very uncomfortable to be in a foreign country dealing with foreign officials without the proper guidance and support to ensure they are following the correct path.

Tip 3 - Take care of details back home

Once you have finished completing the necessary legal procedures in the child’s country of birth, you will need to address the state and federal laws in the United States. Depending on where you live, there may be both federal and state laws governing your new family, and the process may even include an entirely separate adoption filing in American courts to formally establish your parental rights at home.

At a minimum, be prepared to make legal copies of all of your adoption paperwork and consider getting your child’s foreign papers translated into English. When they reach school age, they will need to produce documents such as birth certificates or health records, and having your paperwork in hand will help prevent potential delays along the way.

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James Matthews

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