Deciding to adopt a child internationally is a major decision. Once you have made the decision to adopt, you will need to determine where you want to adopt from – whether it be your home country or another country. It’s important to note that not all countries allow adoptions from other countries. Fortunately, in Canada, it is possible to adopt a child from another country, which is known as international adoption. However, the process of international adoption can be lengthy and confusing.
International adoptions involve two steps, with the second step requiring the assistance of an adoptions lawyer after the immigration process. The first step is the immigration process, where the child is brought to Canada. Individuals or couples looking to adopt work with an adoption agency to complete the immigration process, which can take anywhere from one to several years. The second step, the adoption process, involves applying to the court to legally become the child’s parent and requires working with an adoption lawyer. This part of the process typically takes a couple of months or longer.
Not all countries allow international adoption, and each country has its own eligibility requirements for who can adopt a child. There are also certain countries that the Canadian government does not permit adoption from, and individuals or couples can only apply to adopt from one country at a time. Some of the top countries Canadians choose to adopt from include China, India, Korea, Hong Kong, and the USA.
International Relative Adoption is the process of adopting a child living in another country that you are related to, and it varies slightly from other international adoptions. Adoptive parents typically have more information on the child’s upbringing and health in these cases. However, the immigration process and the adoption process still need to be completed.
Considerations to keep in mind include the potential cost of the process, the length of time it may take, and the amount of information you may receive about the child’s upbringing. Adoption lawyers can help by providing guidance and information about the immigration and court processes, recommending adoption agencies, preparing and submitting adoption applications to the court, and obtaining an adoption order.
While the international adoption process can be challenging, it can be made easier with the right help. To meet with one of the award-winning adoption lawyers in Vancouver or Surrey, book now or call us at 604-974-9529.