What is the difference between a domestic and an international adoption?

The difference between a domestic and an international adoption is that a domestic adoption occurs within the United States while an international adoption occurs outside of the United States. Domestic adoptions are typically regulated by the laws of the state in which the adoption takes place. Adoptions in Indiana are typically handled by adoption agencies that are licensed by the state. These agencies typically work with birth parents to arrange for the adoption of a child born in the state. The adoptive family is usually required to complete a home study and meet certain criteria in order to be eligible to adopt. In contrast, an international adoption occurs when an adoptive family seeks to adopt a child from a foreign country. In order for an international adoption to occur, an adoption agency must be accredited by the U.S. Department of State. Additionally, the agency must abide by the laws of the foreign country as well as those in Indiana. In some cases, an adoption agency must be accredited by both countries in order to move forward with an international adoption. Additionally, families who are seeking to adopt a child from a foreign country must satisfy the requirements of both the foreign country and Indiana in order for the adoption to be approved.

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What is the difference between a domestic and an international adoption?

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