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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Bangladesh"

(Who Can Be Adopted)
 
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/bg-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/bg-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/bg-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/bg-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/sas/bg_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/sas/bg_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f7/Somapura_Mahavihara%2C_Bangladesh.jpg/800px-Somapura_Mahavihara%2C_Bangladesh.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f7/Somapura_Mahavihara%2C_Bangladesh.jpg/800px-Somapura_Mahavihara%2C_Bangladesh.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Ancient Somapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/45/Agriculture_of_Bangladesh_11.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/45/Agriculture_of_Bangladesh_11.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Rice cultivation.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c4/Festival_of_sacred_bath_%28Baruni_snan-_in_Bengali%29_in_Bangladesh.jpg/800px-Festival_of_sacred_bath_%28Baruni_snan-_in_Bengali%29_in_Bangladesh.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c4/Festival_of_sacred_bath_%28Baruni_snan-_in_Bengali%29_in_Bangladesh.jpg/800px-Festival_of_sacred_bath_%28Baruni_snan-_in_Bengali%29_in_Bangladesh.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Festival of the Sacred Bath.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/aa/Curzon_hall_front.jpg/800px-Curzon_hall_front.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/aa/Curzon_hall_front.jpg/800px-Curzon_hall_front.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Curzon Hall.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
=Hague Convention Information=
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/72/Children_in_rural_school.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Rural school children.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
Bangladesh is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]]([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]). Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [http://www.uscis.gov/iframe/ilink/docView/SLB/HTML/SLB/0-0-0-1/0-0-0-29/0-0-0-101/0-0-0-434.html Immigration and Nationality Act], Section 101(b)(1)(F).
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{{#eimage:https://farm1.staticflickr.com/66/152945444_6f8787bcea_n.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Cox's Market.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1237/4727103455_9e4443ee41_n.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Bangladeshi women.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
Bangladeshi law does not allow for full adoptions of Bangladeshi children in Bangladesh.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] considering adopting a Bangladeshi child must obtain guardianship from a Bangladeshi court and subsequently adopt the child in the United States.  For more information, please refer to U.S. State Department [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/faqs/adoption_of_children_countries_islamic_sharia_observed.php FAQs]. Only citizens of Bangladesh may obtain guardianship of Bangladeshi children.  Since Bangladesh allows for dual citizenship, U.S. citizens who are also Bangladeshi citizens may be appointed guardians of Bangladeshi children.
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{{#eimage:https://farm7.staticflickr.com/6083/6035281077_a49cd0ea90_n.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A riverboat library in [[Bangladesh]].'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
  
There have been a number of instances in which U.S. citizens have been incorrectly advised by legal practitioners and have entered into fostering/adoption arrangements which, even though endorsed by local Bangladeshi courts, do not meet the requirements of Bangladeshi law. Adoptions that are not completed in accordance with Bangladeshi law will not meet the requirements for the issuance of a U.S. immigrant visa.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who intend to adopt a Bangladeshi child should not attempt to circumvent the legal guardianship process.
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
 +
The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.
  
U.S. citizens interested in adopting a child from Bangladesh are strongly encouraged to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in New Delhi and the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka before applying for guardianship.  Obtaining legal guardianship under the Bangladeshi law does not guarantee that the child will qualify for a U.S. immigrant visa.
 
  
 +
=About Bangladesh=
  
'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
+
Muslim conversions and settlement in the region now referred to as [[Bangladesh]] began in the 10th century, primarily from Arab and Persian traders and preachers. Europeans began to set up trading posts in the area in the 16th century. Eventually the area known as Bengal, primarily Hindu in the western section and mostly Muslim in the eastern half, became part of British [[India]].  To learn more, read [[About Bangladesh]].
  
  
To bring an adopted child to the United States from Bangladesh, you must meet [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php eligibility and suitability requirements].  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php who can adopt] under U.S. immigration law.
+
=Hague Convention Information=
  
 
+
[[Bangladesh]] is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]]([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]).  Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [https://www.uscis.gov/laws-and-policy/legislation/immigration-and-nationality-act
Additionally, a child must meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of orphan] under U.S. immigration law in order to be eligible to immigrate to the United States on an IR-3 or IR-4 immigrant visa.
+
], Section 101(b)(1)(F).  To learn more, read about [[Bangladesh and the Hague Convention]].
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the following requirements in order to obtain guardianship of a child from Bangladesh with the intention of adopting the child in the United States:
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Read about [[Who Can Adopt from Bangladesh]]
  
 
==Residency==
 
 
Prospective guardians must provide proof of Bangladeshi citizenship.
 
 
==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
 
Prospective guardians must be at least 18 years old.
 
 
==Marriage==
 
 
Bangladesh does not recognize same-sex marriage.  However, the Family Court may grant [[custody]] to an applicant, irrespective of marital status.
 
 
==Income==
 
 
Bangladesh law does not establish a minimum income requirement for guardians.  However, a prospective [[guardian]] must prove to the Family Court judge that he/she is able to feed, shelter and educate the child.
 
 
==Other==
 
 
Prospective guardians must submit an application for legal guardianship to the Family Court.  In Bangladesh, the Family Court has sole [[jurisdiction]] over family matters.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
 
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In order to qualify for U.S. immigration, a child must meet the [https://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process definition of an orphan] under U.S. immigration law.  [[Bangladesh]] does not have any specific provisions of law related to [[guardianship]] of siblings or [[guardianship]] of [[Special Needs Children|special needs children]].  To learn more, read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Bangladesh]].
In order to qualify for U.S. immigration, a child must meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of an orphan] under U.S. immigration law.  Bangladesh does not have any specific provisions of law related to guardianship of siblings or guardianship of [[Special Needs Children|special needs children]].  There is no waiting period or required [[Foster Care|foster care]] before a guardianship order may be entered by the Family Court.
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''Caution:  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are adoptable.  In Bangladesh, a child may be placed in an [[orphanage]] because his/her parents are unable to provide financial support.  In such a case, the parents have not abandoned the child and they intend for the child to return home when the family’s financial circumstances improve.''
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=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
'''Bangladesh’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Bangladesh]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
There is no independent central government [[adoption]] authority in Bangladesh.  The Family Court has sole [[jurisdiction]] over family matters.
+
There is no independent central government [[adoption]] authority in [[Bangladesh]].  The Family Court has sole [[jurisdiction]] over family matters.  Continue reading to learn more about [[How to Adopt from Bangladesh]].
  
==The Process==
 
 
The process for adopting a child from Bangladesh generally includes the following steps:
 
 
 
# Contact a lawyer in Bangladesh
 
# Apply to be found eligible to adopt
 
# Obtain [[custody]] of the child in Bangladesh
 
# Obtain a No Objection Certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs
 
# Apply for the child’s passport
 
# Apply to classify the [[orphan]] as an immediate relative
 
# Apply for the child’s immigrant visa
 
 
 
'''1.  Contact a Lawyer in Bangladesh'''
 
 
 
'''''There are no [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Bangladesh.'''''  However, there are numerous lawyers in Bangladesh who may initiate guardianship proceedings.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a [http://dhaka.usembassy.gov/legal_resources.html list of attorneys] with family law experience in Bangladesh.  The Embassy can provide contact information for established local charitable orphanages.
 
 
 
'''2.  Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt'''
 
 
 
File an [[I-600A]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600a Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition] with U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to be found eligible and suitable to adopt.
 
 
 
'''3.  Obtain [[Legal Custody]] of Child in Bangladesh'''
 
 
 
The process for gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] in Bangladesh includes the following:
 
 
 
*'''Role of [[Adoption]] Authority:'''  There is no formal [[adoption]] authority in Bangladesh.
 
*'''Role of the Court:'''  Family Courts are located in all districts of Bangladesh and generally must be contacted in person.  The Family Court reviews the character and capacity of the proposed [[guardian]] to care for the child.
 
*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:'''  There are no [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Bangladesh.
 
*'''[[Adoption]] Application:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] seeking to gain guardianship of a Bangladeshi child must submit an application for legal guardianship to the Family Court having [[jurisdiction]] over the child’s place of residence.
 
*'''Time Frame:'''  There is no set time frame for completing legal guardianship. Below are estimated processing times for specific stages of the process:
 
 
::#Processing time at an [[orphanage]] – three days to one month;
 
::#Processing time at Family Court – one to three months;
 
::#Processing time at the Ministry of Home Affairs – 15 days to two months.
 
 
*'''[[Adoption]] Fees:'''  There is a court fee of Tk. 60 (US$0.75) for filing the guardianship petition. Lawyer’s fees generally range from Tk. 5,000 to Tk. 50,000 (roughly US$85 to $850).  There is no official [[orphanage]] fee.
 
*'''Documents Required:'''  The following documents are normally required by the Family Court in order to obtain [[custody]]:
 
 
::#Birth certificate of the minor;
 
::#Irrevocable release/undertaking of the sole or surviving biological parent (if any) of the child before a Notary Public, 1st Class Magistrate, or the relevant Family Court in Bangladesh.
 
 
*'''Authentication of Documents:'''  You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic.  If so, the Department of State, [http://www.state.gov/authentications/ Authentications Office] may be able to assist.
 
 
 
'''4.  Obtain a No Objection Certificate from the Ministry of Home Affairs'''
 
 
 
Please visit the [http://www.mofa.gov.bd/index.php?option=com_content&view=frontpage&Itemid=1 website] of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka, for information about how to obtain a No Objection Certificate.
 
 
 
'''5.  Apply for the Child’s Passport'''
 
 
 
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Bangladesh.  For information about how to obtain a passport from the Government of Bangladesh, please visit the Bangladesh Passport Office website.
 
 
 
'''6.  Apply to Classify the [[Orphan]] as an Immediate Relative'''
 
 
 
Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must have an approved Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600 Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative], before the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka can issue an immigrant visa to the prospective adoptive child.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who have a valid approved Form [[I-600A]] may submit their Form [[I-600]] to USCIS domestically, in person at Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, or via email to DhakaAdoptions@state.gov.
 
 
 
'''7.  Apply for the Child’s Immigrant Visa'''
 
 
 
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child and you have filed Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600 Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative], you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka.  This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you.  As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the Panel Physician’s [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php medical report] on the child.
 
 
 
You can find instructions for applying for an immigrant visa on the [http://dhaka.usembassy.gov/immigrant_visas.html U.S. Embassy Dhaka’s website].  To schedule an interview, please email DhakaAdoptions@state.gov after you have completed steps 1 through 6.
 
 
 
Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that consular officers are required by law to complete Form I-604 Determination on Child for [[Adoption]] (sometimes informally referred to as the “[[orphan]] investigation”) to verify that the child is an [[orphan]] as defined by U.S. immigration law before an immigrant visa is issued.  Depending on the circumstances of a case, this investigation may take up to several weeks to complete, even if the Form [[I-600]] Petition is already approved.
 
 
 
'''NOTE:'''  Visa issuance after the [[I-600]] petition has been approved and after the visa interview generally takes at least 48 hours.  It will not normally be possible to provide the visa to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] on the day of the interview.  [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] should verify current processing times by contacting DhakaAdoptions@state.gov before making final travel arrangements.
 
 
 
'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
 
 
'''''For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the [[adoption]] was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000].
 
 
'''''For adoptions finalized after the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  An [[adoption]] will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
 
 
 
'''''Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible.  Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.'''''
 
 
 
Read more about the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000].
 
  
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 
  
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
+
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. Read more about [[Traveling Abroad in Bangladesh]].
  
Getting or renewing a passport is easy.  The [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports.html Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print—all in one place.
 
 
 
'''Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Bangladesh'''
 
 
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa.  A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit.  Where required, visas are affixed to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.  To find information about obtaining a visa for Bangladesh, see the Department of State’s [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
 
 
 
'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
 
 
Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country.  The Department of State provides [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information] for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
 
 
 
'''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
 
 
When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State.  Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary.  Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Bangladesh, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
 
 
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the [https://step.state.gov/step/ Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)].
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
 
  
 
'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
 
'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
  
  
Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]].  There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and [[adoptee]] organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
+
Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]].  There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and [[adoptee]] [[organizations]] active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
  
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
  
'''U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Bangladesh]]'''
  
 
Madani Avenue, Baridhara
 
Madani Avenue, Baridhara
Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
+
Dhaka 1212, [[Bangladesh]]
 
Tel:  +880 2 885-5500
 
Tel:  +880 2 885-5500
 
Fax:  +880 2 882-3744
 
Fax:  +880 2 882-3744
Line 234: Line 96:
  
  
'''Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh'''
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'''Embassy of the People’s Republic of [[Bangladesh]]'''
  
3510, International Drive, N.W.
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3510, [[International]] Drive, N.W.
 
[[Washington]], D.C.  20008
 
[[Washington]], D.C.  20008
 
Tel:  (202) 244-0183, (202) 244-7830
 
Tel:  (202) 244-0183, (202) 244-7830
Line 243: Line 105:
  
  
''The People’s Republic of Bangladesh also has consulates in [[New York]] and Los Angeles.''
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''The People’s Republic of [[Bangladesh]] also has consulates in [[New York]] and Los Angeles.''
  
  
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==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=bangladesh]
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' [[adoption]].state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=[[bangladesh]]
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 06:05, 1 July 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Ancient Somapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Rice cultivation.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Festival of the Sacred Bath.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Curzon Hall.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Rural school children.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Cox's Market.
Source: flickr.com.

Bangladeshi women.
Source: flickr.com.

A riverboat library in .
Source: flickr.com.


Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating international adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry Universal Accreditation Act.

The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.


About Bangladesh

Muslim conversions and settlement in the region now referred to as Bangladesh began in the 10th century, primarily from Arab and Persian traders and preachers. Europeans began to set up trading posts in the area in the 16th century. Eventually the area known as Bengal, primarily Hindu in the western section and mostly Muslim in the eastern half, became part of British India. To learn more, read About Bangladesh.


Hague Convention Information

Bangladesh is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 204.3 as it relates to orphans as defined under the [https://www.uscis.gov/laws-and-policy/legislation/immigration-and-nationality-act ], Section 101(b)(1)(F). To learn more, read about Bangladesh and the Hague Convention.

Who Can Adopt

Read about Who Can Adopt from Bangladesh


Who Can Be Adopted

In order to qualify for U.S. immigration, a child must meet the definition of an orphan under U.S. immigration law. Bangladesh does not have any specific provisions of law related to guardianship of siblings or guardianship of special needs children. To learn more, read about Who Can Be Adopted from Bangladesh.

How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Bangladesh’s Adoption Authority

There is no independent central government adoption authority in Bangladesh. The Family Court has sole jurisdiction over family matters. Continue reading to learn more about How to Adopt from Bangladesh.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. Read more about Traveling Abroad in Bangladesh.


After Adoption

Post-Adoption Resources


Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.


Here are some places to start your support group search:


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children

Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons


NOTE: Inclusion of non-U.S. government links does not imply endorsement of contents.


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh

Madani Avenue, Baridhara Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh Tel: +880 2 885-5500 Fax: +880 2 882-3744 Email: DhakaAdoptions@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh


Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh

3510, International Drive, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 244-0183, (202) 244-7830 Fax: (202) 244-5366 Internet: Embassy of the People's Republic of Bangladesh


The People’s Republic of Bangladesh also has consulates in New York and Los Angeles.


Office of Children’s Issues

U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI, SA-17A, 9th Floor Washington, D.C. 20522-1709 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov Internet: U.S. Department of State


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures: National Customer Service Center (NCSC) Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833) Internet: USCIS


For questions about filing a Form I-600A or I-600 petition:

National Benefits Center Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local) Email: NBC.Adoptions@uscis.dhs.gov

SOURCE

Intercountry Adoption, Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=bangladesh