How to Adopt Internationally

Simple Steps:

  1. Call an adoption agency. (We suggest only using state-licensed nonprofit members of the Joint Council on International Children’s Services (JCICS).
  2. Download an application form.
  3. Fill out application form and return to agency with fee and requested documents.
  4. Begin the home study process as directed by your agency.
  5. Simultaneously, begin gathering all important paperwork such as birth certificates, marriage and divorce decrees, tax returns for the past three years, passports and extra passport photos, and financial information. In some cases you may need to request extra certified copies of documents from vital records offices so it is a good idea to start that early in the process.
  6. Schedule an appointment with your doctor for a medical clearance and to discuss Hepatitis B immunization.
  7. Make preparations and eventually visit the USCIS to turn in your I-600A form as instructed by your agency.
  8. Make arrangements to get fingerprinted as instructed by the USCIS and/or your agency.
  9. Begin filling out your country program paperwork.
  10. Return papers to your agency as instructed.
  11. Wait for your child assignment and/or for permission to travel.
  12. During the wait, read everything you can about adoption.
  13. Travel to adopt/meet/select your child or receive your child through an escort.
  14. Work with you agency to complete the post adoption paperwork (e.g. readoption, U.S. citizenship, social security, passport, medical and developmental assessments, post placement reports, etc.).
  15. Start enjoying your new life as a parent!
Independent Charities of America Children's Charities of America Joint Council on International Children's Services Council on Accreditation Hano Hawaii North American Council on Adoptable Children Better Business Bureau The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Just Give iGive GuideStar