What are the rules for international adoption?

The rules for international adoption in Hawaii vary from country to country and require careful consideration. Generally speaking, all people who wish to adopt a child of another nationality must meet the requirements of both the foreign country and Hawaii. In order to pursue international adoption, adoptive parents must first obtain a home study from an approved agency in Hawaii. This must include background checks and documentation regarding the financial, medical, and mental health of the potential adoptive parents. The foreign country’s national laws and regulations must also be followed in order for a successful international adoption to occur. Depending on the child’s homeland, potential parents will be required to submit additional paperwork, meet certain age and marital requirements, undergo additional criminal background checks or other screenings, take part in a home visit, and even travel overseas for court proceedings. The adoption process can be lengthy and costly, as there are numerous fees associated with it. The U.S. Department of State provides information regarding foreign country-specific procedures and fees but potential adoptive parents should be aware that each country governs their own adoption process. In Hawaii, prospective parents who are interested in international adoption should contact an approved agency to complete the home study. This agency will be able to provide additional information and serve as a liaison between the parental candidate and the foreign country. It is important for prospective parents to review all documents carefully and understand the process before making any commitments.

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What are the rules for international adoption?

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