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

A domestic adoption is a legal process of placing a child who is born in the United States with adoptive parents who are either from the United States or from other countries. Domestic adoptions involve adoption laws of the state where the child was born, the adoptive parents reside, or both. An international adoption is the process of placing a child who was born outside of the United States with adoptive parents who are either from the United States or from other countries. International adoptions involve both the laws of the country of origin and adoption laws of the United States. International adoptions may require additional legal paperwork and services, such as immigration clearance and visas, depending on the countries involved. Some states, like Washington, have specific adoption laws that apply to both domestic and international adoptions. These laws, such as the right to updated medical information, assist in providing a safe and ethical adoption process. For example, Washington has a Registry of Adoptive and Foster Families, which helps to ensure that all parties involved in the adoption process understand the law and their responsibilities.

Related FAQs

What is an adoption subsidy?
What is the Indian Child Welfare Act?
What are the costs involved in international adoption?
How do I start the adoption process?
What should I expect during a post-placement visit?
How long does it take to adopt?
What is a post-adoption contact agreement?
What resources are available to help with the adoption process?
What is the Adoption and Safe Families Act?
What is a private adoption facilitator?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding the Process of Adoption Law - July 31, 2023
Exploring the Different Types of Adoption - August 7, 2023
Common Adoption Scenarios and How the Law Applies to Each - August 14, 2023
How to Choose an Adoption Lawyer - August 21, 2023
Surrogacy and Adoption: What You Need to Know - August 28, 2023