How long (generally) does it take to adopt in North America?

Question

For adoption of a North American baby.

Answer 1

There are so many variables.  The biggest variable is how selective you are regarding age, race, s*x, etc.  The more selective you are, the longer it can take.  

Another factor is the network available to the agency/attorney used.

Answer 2

My experience is 2 years.  

We adopted, it was almost exactly 2 year from starting the first fosterparent certification class to finalized adoption.  I have family who adopted privately and it also took them about 2 years as well.    

I do know of some people who got placements within a few months, and of others who waited years.  A lot depends on what you are looking for (i.e. if you only want to adopt a child of a specific age, race, and/or s*x, expect a longer wait).

You mention going through fostercare.  I highly recommend it.  For one thing, it is not about money.  For another, you are really helping a child or children who need help.

Answer 3

It depends on the state you are living in and if you are adopting a infant or a toddler.

Answer 4

I was adopted at birth and will be adopted when I die...80 years or so, I hope.

Answer 5

From foster care (special needs, siblings, or older children, any race)=Six months

From foster care (newborn or infant, foster/adopt, any race)=6 months to two years

Private agencies  (toddler to age 4, any race)=1-2 years

Private agencies (newborn, Caucasian only)=1-3 years

Private agencies (newborn, any race)=6 months to one year

Hope that helps!

Answer 6

poor people=years

rich people= days

sad but true!

Answer 7

It depends.  If you wish to adopt a child from the foster care system who has legally been released for adoption, the process can go pretty quickly.  

If you prefer to adopt a healthy newborn, it can take anywhere from a few months to over 10 years.  Most adoption agencies allow the birth parents to choose the adoptive parents.  Depending on your situation, the birth family might choose you right away.  But perhaps you have certain traits that would mean many birth mothers would not choose you.....for example, if you are single, or g*y, or much older, or already have a lot of bio children, or are in a low socioeconomic bracket, it might take much longer for a birth family to come along who would think you were the ideal family for their baby.

Answer 8

It doesn't matter where you are or where your baby is coming from adopting can take a long time i'm talking more than a couple of months. my daughter is adopted and even though i had her whole life i didn't adopt her until a few months ago. she was my foster daughter i've had her since she was born, but just had to wait to do the legal work and everything.

Answer 9

It can take up to 5 years if your picky

but if all u want is a child to love and don't care about gender or race or anything it can take less then a year but u still need to make sure that the social worker that come to make sure u would be a good family like you.

""When my parents were trying to adopt me it took them a year and a half""