What is an intercountry adoption?

Intercountry adoption is the process of adopting a child from a different country than the adoptive parents’ home country. In California, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is responsible for approving intercountry adoptions. The process typically begins with the filing of an application with CDSS, which includes: completing an adoption home study, attending pre-adoption training, and submitting documentation and background checks. Once approved, adoptive parents are matched with a child from a different country. This process can take anywhere from a few months to several years. After the adoption is finalized, the adoptive parents will need to apply for the child’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services (USCIS) approval. Intercountry adoption is an exciting and complex process, but it has its risks. Adoptive parents need to understand the laws of their home country, as well as the laws of the country of origin of the child they are adopting. They need to ensure that the adoption is being handled through an approved and experienced adoption agency, and that the agency is following all of the local laws of the country of origin. Adopting a child from another country is an incredibly rewarding experience. It provides the adoptive family with a connection to another culture, and the opportunity for the child to experience a life outside of the country of origin. It is, however, important to remember that the intercountry adoption process can be complex, and it is essential to do research and understand the process before committing to an adoption.

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