Who can adopt a child in the US?

In the US, any adult can adopt a child, as long as they meet all the requirements for adoption in the state they live in. In Virginia, the law states that any unmarried adult who is a resident of the state or any married couple, either of whom is a resident of Virginia, is eligible to adopt a child. In addition to being a resident of Virginia, applicants for adoption must be at least 18 years old—or as young as 16 with parental consent—and be in good physical and mental health. Applicants also must pass a criminal background check and demonstrate that they can provide a safe, stable home and financial support to the child they are adopting. They must also meet certain education and income requirements. In most cases, married couples must both sign the adoption paperwork. Additionally, certain family members of the child, such as the child’s adult siblings, may also be allowed to adopt the child in some cases. Though there are some exceptions, it is generally not possible for people outside of the US to adopt a child in the US.

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Who can adopt a child in the US?

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