Adoption Steps

Are you considering intercountry adoption but don’t know where to start? We know the process can seem daunting, but we are here to help break it down for you.

1. Research the country or countries you want to adopt from. You can find lots of information on country specific; including an estimated timeline, eligibility requirement, typical child needs and ages of those available for adoption, and so much more. The following website will help with getting started: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption/Intercountry-Adoption-Country-Information.html

2. ---

   Once you have decided on 1 or 2 counties you are interested in adopting from, you will need to find a primary placing agency. Not all agencies are equal. We recommend attending informational sessions and ask questions to find the one that feels right for your family. An easy way to start finding agencies is to do a google search of ‘adoption agency and “country name you have selected” ‘ You can also go on IAAME’s sit to find accredited agencies that are primary provider for the specific country:  https://directory.iaame.net/ords/iaame/r/asp directory/search?session=16848632224542

   ---

3. While you are looking for your primary agency, you will also need to find a local agency to complete the home study and post placement services. Most often countries require not only the placing agency be accredited, but also your local home study/post placement agency be accredited as well. Catholic Charities is actually 1 of 3 Hague accredited agencies in Wisconsin

   ---

4. You have the country you want to adopt from, your primary agency, and local agency; Now what?  You will begin the home study process with your local agency and start completing adoptive parent education trainings. You will also start completing immigration forms and applications for USCIS with your primary agency. Bring on the paperwork!

   ---

5. Once you are home study approved and have completed the necessary paperwork for the primary agency, you enter into the waiting period. It is during this time where you will be matched with a child(ren). You will receive a referral first on the child(ren) with any information known/medical needs. You typically have 2 weeks from the time of referral to consult with medical professionals and your case workers to make a decision.

   ---

6. You have accepted the referral and are on your way forward towards adoption! Your primary agency will now help with getting paperwork done for the child(ren)’s visa. They will also help with any other paperwork that is needed before travel.

   ---

7. Travel to the country! Congratulations on welcoming the new member(s) in your family.

   ---

8. Once you return back home, your local agency will help complete the re-adoption or adoption registration process in Wisconsin. This process depends on the type of visa you have (IH-3 or IH-4). Your local agency will also complete the necessary post placement services/reports.