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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Switzerland"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/sz-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/sz-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of [[Switzerland]].'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/sz-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/sz-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/eur/sz_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/sz_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/60/Matterhorn_from_Domh%C3%BCtte_-_2.jpg/800px-Matterhorn_from_Domh%C3%BCtte_-_2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''' The Matterhorn seen seen from the Domhütte (Valais), Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/60/Matterhorn_from_Domh%C3%BCtte_-_2.jpg/800px-Matterhorn_from_Domh%C3%BCtte_-_2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''' The Matterhorn seen seen from the Domhütte (Valais)'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/ZurichMontage.jpg/334px-ZurichMontage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Zurich, Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/21/ZurichMontage.jpg/334px-ZurichMontage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Zurich'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5471/11279307745_6f086cfcbb.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A little girl in Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/europe/switzerland/switzerland_001_luzern.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: bigfoto.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/europe/switzerland/switzerland_001_luzern.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: bigfoto.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bd/Houses_in_the_Old_City_of_Bern.jpg/800px-Houses_in_the_Old_City_of_Bern.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Houses in Bern'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bd/Houses_in_the_Old_City_of_Bern.jpg/800px-Houses_in_the_Old_City_of_Bern.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Houses in Bern, Switzerland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/61/Botanical_Garden_Geneva_2006_803.JPG/800px-Botanical_Garden_Geneva_2006_803.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Geneva'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/61/Botanical_Garden_Geneva_2006_803.JPG/800px-Botanical_Garden_Geneva_2006_803.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Geneva, Switzerland.'''<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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=Hague Convention Information=
 
  
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Switzerland 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 Switzerland and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and the U.S. law implements the Convention.
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=About Switzerland=
  
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Switzerland is not considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. Few Swiss born children are eligible for adoption. Additionally, the demand for [[adopted]] children among Swiss citizens is typically high with a long waiting list of Swiss prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. Most intercountry adoptions in Switzerland are by legal residents of Switzerland who [[adopt]] in third countries. The majority of adoptions pursued successfully by American citizens through the Swiss government involve U.S. nationals residing legally in Switzerland who choose to [[adopt]] from a third country.
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The Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 as a defensive alliance among three cantons. In succeeding years, other localities joined the original three. The Swiss Confederation secured its independence from the Holy Roman Empire in 1499. A constitution of 1848, subsequently modified in 1874, replaced the confederation with a centralized federal government. [[Switzerland]]'s sovereignty and neutrality have long been honored by the major European powers, and the country was not involved in either of the two world wars. The political and economic integration of Europe over the past half century, as well as [[Switzerland]]'s role in many UN and [[international]] [[organizations]], has strengthened [[Switzerland]]'s ties with its neighbors. However, the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002. [[Switzerland]] remains active in many UN and [[international]] [[organizations]] but retains a strong commitment to neutrality.
  
  
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'''While legally possible, intercountry adoption of a Swiss orphan by foreigners is unlikely. No Swiss orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years.''' The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Switzerland, including adoptions of Swiss children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Switzerland.
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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[[Switzerland]] 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 [[Switzerland]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and the U.S. law implements the Convention. To learn more please read about [[Switzerland and the Hague Convention]].
  
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'''NOTE:''' For Americans living in Switzerland who plan to [[adopt]] from third countries, it is advisable to [[adopt]] a child from a country that is party to the Hague Adoption Convention. Non-Hague Convention adoptions are not recognized by the Swiss Government. If the adoption does originate in a country which is not party to the Hague Convention, the child will arrive in Switzerland as a "Pflegekind" (foster child), not as an officially [[adopted]] family member. After one year, the official adoption procedure of the "Pflegekind" foster child can begin according to Swiss law. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should contact legal counsel or the CCA to get proper information before they start an adoption procedure.
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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Adoption between the United States and Switzerland is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. In order for an American applicant to [[adopt]] a child from Switzerland, within the framework of the Hague Adoption Convention, a determination of eligibility must first be made 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). Read more on Who Can [[Adopt]].
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Switzerland]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. In order for an American applicant to [[adopt]] a child from [[Switzerland]], within the framework of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, a determination of eligibility must first be made 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). To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Switzerland]].
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Switzerland also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
 
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==Residency==
 
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Parents seeking to [[adopt]] are required to have their habitual residence in Switzerland. The Swiss government requires prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to be fully integrated into the Swiss way of life, Swiss culture and social norms. Prospective parents will be asked to attend a pre-adoption interview with the Cantonal Central Authority (CCA) where the adoption procedure and criteria will be discussed. The home study also will be organized by the CCA with the CCA's appointed [[Social Worker|social worker]].
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Both spouses must be at least 35 years of age or older. If a couple does not meet the age requirement, they have to have been married for at least 5 years. Single parent adoptions may only be granted to persons who are 35 years of age or older.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Both spouses must be at least 35 years of age or older. If a couple does not meet the age requirement, they have to have been married for at least 5 years. Single parent adoptions may only be granted to persons who are 35 years of age or older.
 
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==Income==
 
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There are no set income requirements in Switzerland. Every case is decided upon individually. However, the couple or individual seeking to [[adopt]] must show that they have the financial means to support a child.
 
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==Other==
 
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The medical status of the applicants is considered by the relevant Swiss adoption authorities. There is no set list of disqualifying medical conditions; cases are decided on an individual basis. Switzerland does not, for example, disqualify prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who are HIV positive. Prospective adopters must undergo an obligatory medical examination. The results of the medical examination will be considered along with other factors in the pre-adoption home study report.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Switzerland is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Switzerland must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be considered eligible for adoption. For example; the Convention requires that Switzerland attempt to place a child with a family in Switzerland before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Switzerland's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for a prospective adopter to bring him or her back to the United States.
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Because [[Switzerland]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Switzerland]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be considered eligible for [[adoption]]. For example; the Convention requires that [[Switzerland]] attempt to place a child with a family in [[Switzerland]] before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to [[Switzerland]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for a prospective adopter to bring him or her back to the United States.
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Switzerland's Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Switzerland]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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The Government office responsible for adoptions in Switzerland is the Municipality (Gemeinde/Commune/Comuni) and/or the local Guardianship Board. The physical location of a prospective adopter directly affects which local governing authority will process their application. Each of the 26 Cantons in Switzerland now has a Central Authority. In order to determine which authority is most relevant, the prospective adopting parents or individual should contact the Cantonal Central Authority (CCA). A list of approved agencies is available from the Embassy or on the Internet at www.bj.admin.ch.  
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The Government office responsible for adoptions in [[Switzerland]] is the Municipality (Gemeinde/Commune/Comuni) and/or the local [[Guardianship]] Board. The physical location of a prospective adopter directly affects which local governing authority will process their application. Each of the 26 Cantons in [[Switzerland]] now has a Central Authority. In order to determine which authority is most relevant, the prospective adopting parents or individual should contact the Cantonal Central Authority (CCA). A list of approved agencies is available from the Embassy or on the Internet at www.bj.admin.ch.  
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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As Switzerland is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, Switzerland must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. The requirements outlined in the Treaty must be followed to successfully prosecute an adoption from within Switzerland.
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As [[Switzerland]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, [[Switzerland]] must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention [[adoption]] process is given below. The requirements outlined in the Treaty must be followed to successfully prosecute an [[adoption]] from within [[Switzerland]].
  
  
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'''NOTE:'''  The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Switzerland, including adoptions of Swiss children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Switzerland.  
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'''NOTE:'''  The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare [[adoption]] cases from [[Switzerland]], including adoptions of Swiss children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in [[Switzerland]].  
  
  
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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 in Switzerland  
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# [[Adopt]] the child in [[Switzerland]]
 
# Bring your child Home  
 
# Bring your child Home  
  
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To learn more please read about [[How to Adopt from Switzerland]].
  
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:''' 
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Switzerland is to select an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide adoption services between the United States and Switzerland. 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]], a potential adopter must be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form [[I-600A]]) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Eligibility Requirements.
 
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Once the U.S. government determines that a couple or individual is "eligible" and "suitable" to [[adopt]], the applicant or accredited [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] must forward your information to the adoption authority in Switzerland. Switzerland's adoption authority will review the application to determine if the prospective adopters are eligible to [[adopt]] under Swiss law.
 
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
 
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If determination of eligibility are issued by both governments to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in Switzerland 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 the applicant accepts 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.
 
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After this, the [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] or the applicant must submit a visa application 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 Switzerland's 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 Switzerland:'''
 
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'''''Remember: Before the applicants [[adopt]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in Switzerland, they 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 Switzerland.'''''
 
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The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Switzerland generally includes the following:
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE ADOPTION AUTHORITY, AND ADOPTION APPLICATION:'''  These roles are set up as follows: 
 
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::::1. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] go to the Cantonal Authority to begin the adoption procedure, and;
 
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::::2. 2. Attend a session on adoption protocol, organized by the Cantonal Central Authority (CCA). The concept of the adoption procedure in general is to convey to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] the intricacy involved in an adoption procedure. Information is given on the various countries of origin of the child or children legal formalities (in Switzerland), costs involved, home study information, and a chance for the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to ask questions about the adoption procedure.
 
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::::3. Thereafter, if the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] still wish to [[adopt]] a child, they must submit a formal application to the Cantonal Central Authority. If the application is accepted by the CCA, the Cantonal Authority will issue a formal decision that the adoption procedure may go ahead.
 
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR ADOPTION IN SWITZERLAND:'''  Documents include the following: 
 
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::::::1. Home Study Report carried out by a [[Social Worker|social worker]], in accordance with the CCA;
 
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::::::2. Certificate that the applicants are qualified to [[adopt]] and that the child to be [[adopted]] is permitted to enter Switzerland (i.e., the adoption has to be authorized by the Canton).
 
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::::::3. Salary statement, proving a regular income;
 
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::::::4. Tax report;
 
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::::::5. Criminal record;
 
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::::::6. Marriage certificate (for a couple).  If an American citizen living in Switzerland is attempting to [[adopt]] a child from a third country, the documentary requirements of the child's country of origin have to be taken into consideration, possibly including psychological analysis, a medical report that may need to include certain tests such as HIV, sterility tests, and any other medical tests required by the country of origin.  '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic. Read more on Traveling Abroad to learn about Authenticating U.S. Documents.
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' The Court does not have any competence over adoption procedures. The only role a Court may play would occur if the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] have been turned down by the Cantonal Central Authority and have not been granted the necessary permission to [[adopt]] a child. If the prospective parents do not accept the decision of the Cantonal Central Authority they have the right under Swiss law to appeal the decision in Court.
 
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*'''ROLE OF [[Adoption Agencies|ADOPTION AGENCIES]]:''' All [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] have to be fully accredited by the Federal Central Authority. The duties of the [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] are strictly regulated by Swiss law. The [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] are responsible for handling paperwork and assisting the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] with the formalities of the adoption procedure.
 
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*"""TIME FRAME:''' Adoption procedures take a minimum of two months to complete. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are expected to remain in Switzerland the entire time. In Switzerland, a social inquiry can take up to two years to complete, although two years is generally the maximum amount of time required. In the case of an intercountry adoption by Americans from a third country, the time frame depends very much upon the country of origin of the adoptive child.
 
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*'''ADOPTION FEES:'''  Fees vary from Canton to Canton. One can expect to pay an average of 1,000-2,500 Swiss Francs (or approximately USD 830-2,060 according to the exchange rate). There are also private agency fees to be taken into consideration.
 
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'''6. Bring Your Child Home'''
 
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Once an 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, an applicant has to apply for three documents for the child before he or she can travel to the United States:
 
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
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If the adoption took place in the U.S. or in a country that is a party to the Hague Adoption Convention, the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will receive a "Certificate of Conformity of Intercountry Adoption - According to [[ART|Art]]. 23 of the Hague Convention of 29 July 1993. The Registry office (Zivilstandsamt/Service de l'etat civil/Servizio dello stato civile ) of the municipality where the parents and adoptive child are registered is the authority responsible for the issuance of the Swiss birth certificate.
 
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An adoption from a non-Hague country is more complicated. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will have a waiting period of one year as the child will have entered Switzerland as a foster child with a passport and the original papers from the country of origin. After one year the adoption procedure can be processed and finalized under Swiss law.
 
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It is advisable to communicate with the Swiss Registry office to seek advice.
 
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::2. Swiss 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 Switzerland.
 
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The first step is to go to the population office in the municipality where one resides and is registered. In Switzerland everyone is registered at the population office in the municipality where they live. Swiss law stipulates that anyone who wishes to obtain an identity document must appear in person (including children and infants) at the commune of residence/population office in Switzerland. It would be advisable to contact this office first to ascertain which documents must be presented. The second step is for parents or the individual to go with the adoptive child to the Cantonal passport office. There is a passport office in each of the 26 Cantons of Switzerland. After January 1, 2003 only new passports will be issued. Each applicant will receive his or her own travel document. Children can no longer be included in the parents' passports. There is a link of all the coordinates of the passport offices which can be found on the following website: www.schweizerpass.admin.ch
 
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for a 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-600]] 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. Read more about the Medical Examination
 
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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 a lawful permanent resident.
 
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'''''For adoptions to be finalized in the United State:''''' 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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Read more about the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
 
  
 
=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 Switzerland. 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 [https://pptform.state.gov/ 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 [[Switzerland]]. 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. To learn more please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Switzerland]].  
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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 Switzerland, 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 Switzerland, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Switzerland'''  
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Switzerland]]'''  
  
 
Sulgeneckstrasse 19
 
Sulgeneckstrasse 19
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'''The Swiss Adoption Authority'''
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'''The Swiss [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
Contact the appropriate Cantonal Central Authority (CCA).
 
Contact the appropriate Cantonal Central Authority (CCA).
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'''Embassy of Switzerland'''
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'''Embassy of [[Switzerland]]'''
  
 
2900 Cathedral Avenue, N.W.
 
2900 Cathedral Avenue, N.W.
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Switzerland also has consulates in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, [[New York]] and San Francisco.
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[[Switzerland]] also has consulates in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, [[New York]] and San Francisco.
  
  

Revision as of 06:02, 2 April 2015

The official flag of .
Source: cia.gov.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

The Matterhorn seen seen from the Domhütte (Valais)
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of Zurich
Source: Wikipedia.org.

'
Source: bigfoto.com.

Houses in Bern
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Geneva
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 Switzerland

The Swiss Confederation was founded in 1291 as a defensive alliance among three cantons. In succeeding years, other localities joined the original three. The Swiss Confederation secured its independence from the Holy Roman Empire in 1499. A constitution of 1848, subsequently modified in 1874, replaced the confederation with a centralized federal government. Switzerland's sovereignty and neutrality have long been honored by the major European powers, and the country was not involved in either of the two world wars. The political and economic integration of Europe over the past half century, as well as Switzerland's role in many UN and international organizations, has strengthened Switzerland's ties with its neighbors. However, the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002. Switzerland remains active in many UN and international organizations but retains a strong commitment to neutrality.


Hague Convention Information

Switzerland 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 Switzerland and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and the U.S. law implements the Convention. To learn more please read about Switzerland and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Switzerland is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. In order for an American applicant to adopt a child from Switzerland, within the framework of the Hague Adoption Convention, a determination of eligibility must first be made 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). To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Switzerland.


Who Can Be Adopted

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

How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Switzerland's Adoption Authority

The Government office responsible for adoptions in Switzerland is the Municipality (Gemeinde/Commune/Comuni) and/or the local Guardianship Board. The physical location of a prospective adopter directly affects which local governing authority will process their application. Each of the 26 Cantons in Switzerland now has a Central Authority. In order to determine which authority is most relevant, the prospective adopting parents or individual should contact the Cantonal Central Authority (CCA). A list of approved agencies is available from the Embassy or on the Internet at www.bj.admin.ch.

The Process

As Switzerland is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, Switzerland must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. The requirements outlined in the Treaty must be followed to successfully prosecute an adoption from within Switzerland.


NOTE: The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Switzerland, including adoptions of Swiss children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Switzerland.


  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 in Switzerland
  6. Bring your child Home

To learn more please read about How to Adopt from Switzerland.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Switzerland. 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. To learn more please read about Traveling Abroad in Switzerland.


After Adoption

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

Adoption Services Support Group for Adopting Persons


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Switzerland

Sulgeneckstrasse 19 3007 Bern Internet: U.S. Embassy Switzerland


The Swiss Adoption Authority

Contact the appropriate Cantonal Central Authority (CCA). A list of approved agencies is available from the Embassy.


Embassy of Switzerland

2900 Cathedral Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 745-7900 Fax: (202) 387-2564 Internet: Embassy of Switzerland


Switzerland also has consulates in Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York 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]