How to adopt from another country?

Question

My husband and I had been talking about adopting a child from an Asian country one day (probably in 4 or 5 years). We were wondering though, what's involved in it? Is it harder to adopt overseas than from here in the US? On average, how $$$ is it? Does anyone know of some organizations (preferably Christian)?

Answer 1

Start with the book "How to Adopt Internationally."  Make sure you get the most recent edition.  This book takes you step by step through the process.  There are some parents who adopted from China on this board that can probably give you more specific information on agencies with Chinese programs, but the book is a great general resource for international adoptions.

Answer 2

I adopted both my children from China, and I can tell you now that the wait is so long right now, if you want to adopt in 4 years or so, perhaps you might want to get started now?

The wait is SO long right now....it's several years long at the moment, and getting longer every minute! There is some speculation on Chinese adoption listservs as to why this is, but for now, it's a long, long, long process.

But it is still possible, if you qualify. You must meet the guidelines - the Chinese guidelines, the U.S. immigration guidelines, and your homestate's guidelines. You must have a homestudy. You must have your fingerprints checked by the FBI.  And you must provide a LOT of paperwork. But it does all work out in the end.

My kids were adopted as infants. They are now 12 and 7 years old. We are a very happy family.

BTW, I'm not sure why you want a Christian agency, but you should know that there are a lot of agencies that are non-denominational that are not only reputable, but actually do a lot of charitable work in China, and in other countries where they work to place children.

We worked with an agency in Washington State called WACAP, and they are not affiliated with any religious group. They are not only experienced in adoption from China (as well as other Asian countries) but they do wonderful charitable work there.

Good luck!