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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Israel"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/is-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Israel.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/is-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/is-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Israel.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/is-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/mde/is_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Israel.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/mde/is_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8f/Emblem_of_Israel.svg/485px-Emblem_of_Israel.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms of Israel.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8f/Emblem_of_Israel.svg/485px-Emblem_of_Israel.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Westernwall2.jpg/800px-Westernwall2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock, Israel.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/17/Westernwall2.jpg/800px-Westernwall2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/asia/israel/israel-jerusalem-8i21.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Praying at the Western Wall, Israel.'''<BR/>Source: bigfoot.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/asia/israel/israel-jerusalem-8i21.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Praying at the Western Wall.'''<BR/>Source: bigfoot.com.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/01/The_Church_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre-Jerusalem.JPG/800px-The_Church_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre-Jerusalem.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Church of the Holy Sepulchre.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/01/The_Church_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre-Jerusalem.JPG/800px-The_Church_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre-Jerusalem.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Church of the Holy Sepulchre.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Tel_Aviv_Collage_3.JPG/444px-Tel_Aviv_Collage_3.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Tel Aviv,Israel.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Tel_Aviv_Collage_3.JPG/444px-Tel_Aviv_Collage_3.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Tel Aviv.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2b/Israel_-_Tel_Aviv_Beach_001.JPG/800px-Israel_-_Tel_Aviv_Beach_001.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Beach in Tel Aviv, Israel.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2b/Israel_-_Tel_Aviv_Beach_001.JPG/800px-Israel_-_Tel_Aviv_Beach_001.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Beach in Tel Aviv.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/asia/israel/israel-jerusalem-5hx9.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street market in Jerusalem, Israel.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/asia/israel/israel-jerusalem-5hx9.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street market in Jerusalem.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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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]].'''
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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]].'''
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=About Israel=
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Following World War II, the British withdrew from their mandate of Palestine, and the UN proposed partitioning the area into Arab and [[Jewish]] states, an arrangement rejected by the Arabs. Nonetheless, an Israeli state was declared in 1948 and the Israelis subsequently defeated the Arabs in a series of wars without ending the deep tensions between the two sides. (The territories [[Israel]] occupied since the 1967 war are not included in the [[Israel]] country profile, unless otherwise noted.) On 25 April 1982, [[Israel]] withdrew from the Sinai pursuant to the 1979 [[Israel]]-[[Egypt]] Peace Treaty. For more information please read [[About Israel]].
  
 
=Hague Convention Information=
 
=Hague Convention Information=
  
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Israel is 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]). Therefore all adoptions between Israel and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.  
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[[Israel]] is 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]). Therefore all adoptions between [[Israel]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.  
  
  
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Please Note: [[Adoption]] in Israel by non-Israeli citizens is rare and is possible only through the Israeli Central Agency for International [[Adoption]].
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Please Note: [[Adoption]] in [[Israel]] by non-Israeli citizens is rare and is possible only through the Israeli Central Agency for [[International]] [[Adoption]].
  
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and Israel is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Israel, you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn more].  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Israel]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Israel]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. For more information please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Israel]].  
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Israel also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
 
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==Residency==
 
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[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] must stay in Israel for the duration of the [[adoption]] process. In order to [[adopt]] a baby up to age 2, the parents must be Israeli citizens. Non-Israeli citizens can only [[adopt]] a baby or a child with [[Special Needs|special needs]] for whom no [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] could be found in Israel. Preference will be given to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] of the same religion or ethnic origin as the child.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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The age difference between either of the parents and the child may not be greater than 43 years.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Partners whose cohabitation is not recognized by the government as a legal marriage or single parents can only [[adopt]] children with [[Special Needs|special needs]].
 
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==Income==
 
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The adopting parents' financial situation must be strong enough to allow adequate support of the child. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must also submit salary slips to prove financial stability. The [[adoption]] officer will verify the information by interviewing the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and conducting a home visit. See "Documents Required" below.
 
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==Other==
 
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All prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must undergo a psychological test conducted by a psychologist as well as a [[Social Worker|social worker]]. The prospective adopting parents must also be judged in good physical health. Please see both "section a" of "[[Adoption]] Procedures" and "section e" of "Documents Required" below, as prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must undergo a physical examination and submit a medical report.
 
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The couple need not be childless.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Israel is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Israel must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Israel attempt to place a child with a family in Israel before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Israeli requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States.  
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Because [[Israel]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Israel]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that [[Israel]] attempt to place a child with a family in [[Israel]] before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Israeli requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States.  
  
  
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Israel's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Israel]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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The Central Agency for International [[Adoption]], managed by Ms. Orna Hirshfeld, is the national [[adoption]] authority. Ms. Nehama Tal has been assigned to be the inspector on international [[adoption]].
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The Central Agency for [[International]] [[Adoption]], managed by Ms. Orna Hirshfeld, is the national [[adoption]] authority. Ms. Nehama Tal has been assigned to be the inspector on [[international]] [[adoption]].
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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Because Israel is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Israel must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention [[adoption]] process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements.
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Because [[Israel]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Israel]] must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention [[adoption]] process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements.
  
  
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'''NOTE:'''  If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with Israel before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply to your [[adoption]]. Your [[adoption]] could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.  [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].  
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'''NOTE:'''  If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with [[Israel]] before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply to your [[adoption]]. Your [[adoption]] could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.  [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].  
  
  
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# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Israel  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in [[Israel]]
 
# Bring your Child Home  
 
# Bring your Child Home  
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Israel]].
  
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:''' 
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Israel is to select an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that has been accredited. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide [[adoption]] services between the United States and Israel. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
 
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]:'''
 
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After you choose an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]], you apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form I-800A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn how].
 
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Once the U.S. government determines that you are "eligible" and "suitable" to [[adopt]], you or your agency will forward your information to the [[adoption]] authority in Israel. Israel's [[adoption]] authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Israeli law.
 
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
 
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If both the United States and Israel determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Israel may provide you with a referral for a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
 
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'''4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]:'''
 
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After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval to [[adopt]] that particular child (Form I-800). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be [[adopted]] and enter the United States. Learn how.
 
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After this, your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the Israeli [[adoption]] authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) may not proceed with the [[adoption]] or obtain [[custody]] for the purpose of [[adoption]] until this takes place.
 
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'''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the [[adoption]] process.'''''
 
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'''5.Adopt the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Israel:'''
 
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'''''Remember: Before you [[adopt]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in Israel, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the [[adoption]] or grant of [[custody]] for the purposes of [[adoption]] in Israel.'''''
 
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Israel generally includes the following:
 
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*'''TIME FRAME:''' To [[adopt]] a baby in Israel, there is approximately a 5-year waiting list.  When adopting a child with [[Special Needs|special needs]], there is at least a six-month wait (depending on the age of the child and the parents' abilities).
 
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] APPLICATION / PROCEDURE:''' All prospective adopting parents must go through the following process when adopting an Israeli child:
 
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::::1. Preliminary medical examination of the parents;
 
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::::2. The child must first be declared adoptable. Either the birth parents must provide a signed statement that they are willing to abandon the child or a court must declare the birth parents as unknown or unable to raise the child;
 
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::::3. Written evaluation of the child's medical condition;
 
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::::4. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must physically arrive in Israel, meet the child and appear in court. At that point the court will grant them full guardianship;
 
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::::5. The Ministry of Labor will conduct a follow-up investigation as to the child's successful integration into the family;
 
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::::6. If the results of the Ministry's investigation are satisfactory after a period of six months residency with the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], an [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] will be granted by the applicable Israeli court;
 
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::::7. Additionally, an [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] must be received from the country of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will then proceed with obtaining an immigrant visa for the child;
 
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::::8. The child is then registered in the Israeli [[adoption]] registry.
 
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*'''PALESTINIAN [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] PROCEDURES:''' These are the Palestinian [[adoption]] procedures in the West bank and Gaza according to the consulate in Jerusalem:
 
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::'''Christian [[Adoption]]:'''
 
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:::Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] can obtain an [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] from the ecclesiastical court of their community (e.g. Latin, Greek, Armenian, etc). On the basis of the [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] issued by the court of the respective church, a Palestinian Birth Certificate can be issued and subsequently a Palestinian Passport (please note that there are sometimes difficulties in receiving civil documents from the Palestinian Authority).
 
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::'''Muslim [[Adoption]]:'''
 
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:::The Palestinian Authority opposes [[adoption]] by foreign parents, because, according to an unnamed source, Palestinian children must remain in Palestine. Additionally, Islamic Shari'a Law does not allow for [[adoption]] as it is recognized in the United States; rather, they allow for "guardianship". Please view our flyer on [[Adoption]] of [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/faqs/adoption_of_children_countries_islamic_sharia_observed.php Children from Countries in which Islamic Shari'a Law] is observed. If a couple is able to locate a child, the couple must pursue [[custody]] with the Palestinian Authority District Court. Only after this is granted, can U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv pursue an IR-4 immigrant visa for the child under the category "to be [[adopted]] in the U.S.".  '''''All [[adoption]] cases that were handled in the Jerusalem Consulate were from the West Bank, and they have not yet encountered one from Gaza.'''''  '''NOTE:''' According to the Israeli [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] representative, [[adoption]] in Gaza is not possible since Islam does not enable [[adoption]]. According to the agency representative, about three years ago Chairman Arafat ordered that only Muslim couples could [[adopt]] children from Gaza.
 
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] FEES:'''  In the [[adoption]] services contract that you sign at the beginning of the [[adoption]] process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your [[adoption]] process. There are no government processing fees associated with [[adoption]] in Israel. The U.S. Embassy in Israel discourages the payment of any fees that are not properly receipted, "donations," or "expediting" fees, that may be requested from prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. Such fees have the appearance of "buying" a baby and put all future adoptions in Israel at risk.
 
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:''' The following items are required prior to [[adoption]] in Israel:
 
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::::::1. [[Home Study|Home study]] of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]],
 
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::::::2. Salary slips attesting to their income,
 
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::::::3. Proof of adequate housing,
 
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::::::4. Police certificate showing no previous criminal record,
 
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::::::5. Medical report proving the good health of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
 
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::::::6. Guarantee that the child will obtain their citizenship once the [[adoption]] has been finalized.
 
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'''NOTE:''' U.S. citizenship is not granted at U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv in Israel. The child is granted an immigrant visa which enables him/her to be admitted into the United States. If the child is issued an IR-3 visa, he or she will be granted automatic citizenship upon admission into the U.S. If the child is issued an IR-4 visa, he or she must be readopted in the U.S. In which case, it is only after a full and final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] has been obtained in the U.S. that the child will acquire U.S. citizenship under INA 320. This must be done while the child is under the age of 18.  Report completed by an Israeli [[Social Worker|social worker]] concerning the prospective adopting parents' financial situation and ability to support the child as well as stating that there is no history of family violence or harassment of minors.
 
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'''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html Learn how].
 
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'''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
 
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Now that your [[adoption]] is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
 
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
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You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
 
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::2. Israeli Passport
 
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Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or Passport from Israel.
 
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::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
 
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the [[adoption]] (or [[custody]] for purpose of [[adoption]]) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. 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" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
 
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An interview will be scheduled for the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and child with the Consular Officer following receipt by the Embassy of the approval of the I-800 that was filed with USCIS and all the supporting documents, and after completion of the [[adoption]]. If they meet all visa requirements per law, an immigrant visa (wither IR-3 or IR-4) will be issued to the child. Occasionally, parents who expected to obtain a final and valid [[adoption]] abroad are unable to do so and must apply for an IR-4 visa for their child instead of an IR-3.
 
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'''NOTE:''' Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 hours and 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 at the appropriate consulate or embassy before making final travel arrangements.
 
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
 
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'''''For adoptions to be finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]]. We urge your family to finalize the [[adoption]] in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
 
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'''''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.'''''
 
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Learn more about the [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/citizenship.php Child Citizenship Act].
 
  
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Israel. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. 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.
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Israel]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Israel]].
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'''Obtaining Your Visa'''
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In addition to a U.S. passport, you 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 attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.  To find information about obtaining a visa for Israel, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
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'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
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Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.  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.
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'''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
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When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Israel, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
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Registration is free and can be done [https://step.state.gov/step/ online].
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
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'''What does Israel require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''  
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'''What does [[Israel]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''  
  
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We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of Israel and complete all post-[[adoption]] requirements in a timely manner. Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.  
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We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of [[Israel]] and complete all post-[[adoption]] requirements in a timely manner. Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.  
  
  
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==Contact Information==
 
==Contact Information==
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Israel'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Israel]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
Immigration Visa Unit  
 
Immigration Visa Unit  
 
71 Hayarkon Street  
 
71 Hayarkon Street  
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Tel Aviv , Israel 63903  
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Tel Aviv , [[Israel]] 63903  
 
Tel: (972) (03) 519-7601  
 
Tel: (972) (03) 519-7601  
 
Fax: (972) (03) 519-7619  
 
Fax: (972) (03) 519-7619  
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'''Israel's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Israel]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
   
 
   
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Central Agency for International [[Adoption]]  
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Central Agency for [[International]] [[Adoption]]  
 
Ministry of Labor  
 
Ministry of Labor  
 
10 Yad Harutzim Street  
 
10 Yad Harutzim Street  
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'''Embassy of Israel'''  
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'''Embassy of [[Israel]]'''  
  
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3514 International Dr. N.W.  
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3514 [[International]] Dr. N.W.  
 
[[Washington]] DC 20008  
 
[[Washington]] DC 20008  
 
Tel: 202-364-5500  
 
Tel: 202-364-5500  
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Israel also has consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, [[New York]], Philadelphia and San Francisco
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[[Israel]] also has consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, [[New York]], Philadelphia and San Francisco
  
  

Revision as of 06:22, 3 February 2015

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

The official coat of arms.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Western Wall and Dome of the Rock.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Praying at the Western Wall.
Source: bigfoot.com.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of Tel Aviv.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Beach in Tel Aviv.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Street market in Jerusalem.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

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

About Israel

Following World War II, the British withdrew from their mandate of Palestine, and the UN proposed partitioning the area into Arab and Jewish states, an arrangement rejected by the Arabs. Nonetheless, an Israeli state was declared in 1948 and the Israelis subsequently defeated the Arabs in a series of wars without ending the deep tensions between the two sides. (The territories Israel occupied since the 1967 war are not included in the Israel country profile, unless otherwise noted.) On 25 April 1982, Israel withdrew from the Sinai pursuant to the 1979 Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty. For more information please read About Israel.

Hague Convention Information

Israel is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Israel and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.


Please Note: Adoption in Israel by non-Israeli citizens is rare and is possible only through the Israeli Central Agency for International Adoption.


NOTE: Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Learn more.

Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Israel is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Israel, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. For more information please read about Who Can Adopt from Israel.


Who Can Be Adopted

Because Israel is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Israel must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Israel attempt to place a child with a family in Israel before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Israeli requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.


ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:


Relinquishment/Abandonment Requirements: Either the birth parents must provide a signed statement that they are willing to abandon the child or a court must declare the birth parents as unknown or unable to raise the child.

How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Israel's Adoption Authority

The Central Agency for International Adoption, managed by Ms. Orna Hirshfeld, is the national adoption authority. Ms. Nehama Tal has been assigned to be the inspector on international adoption.

The Process

Because Israel is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Israel must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.


NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with Israel before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Learn more.


  1. Choose an Accredited Adoption Service Provider
  2. Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt
  3. Be Matched with a Child
  4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States
  5. Adopt the Child (or Gain Legal Custody) in Israel
  6. Bring your Child Home

To learn more about this process please read How to Adopt from Israel.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Israel. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more please read about Traveling Abroad in Israel.


After Adoption

What does Israel require of the adoptive parents after the adoption?

We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of Israel and complete all post-adoption requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption agency may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.


What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?

Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.


Here are some good places to start your support group search:


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Israel

Immigration Visa Unit 71 Hayarkon Street Tel Aviv , Israel 63903 Tel: (972) (03) 519-7601 Fax: (972) (03) 519-7619 Email: IVtelaviv@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy Israel


Israel's Adoption Authority

Central Agency for International Adoption Ministry of Labor 10 Yad Harutzim Street Jerusalem 91012 Tel: 972-2-6708177 / 8 Fax: 972-2-6708451


Embassy of Israel

3514 International Dr. N.W. Washington DC 20008 Tel: 202-364-5500 Fax: 202-364-5527 E-mail: info@israelemb.org Internet: Embassy of Israel


Israel also has consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco


Office of Children's Issues

U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI SA-17, 9th Floor Washington, DC 20522-1709 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 E-mail: AskCI@state.gov Internet: U.S. Department of State


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)

1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)


SOURCE

Intercountry Adoption, Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information[1]