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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Bolivia"

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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/de/Flag_of_Bolivia_%28state%29.svg/800px-Flag_of_Bolivia_%28state%29.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/de/Flag_of_Bolivia_%28state%29.svg/800px-Flag_of_Bolivia_%28state%29.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/bl-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/bl-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/soa/bl_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/soa/bl_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/06/Coat_of_arms_of_Bolivia.svg/664px-Coat_of_arms_of_Bolivia.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms for Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/06/Coat_of_arms_of_Bolivia.svg/664px-Coat_of_arms_of_Bolivia.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/9/90/Centro_de_La_Paz_en_Bolivia.JPG/800px-Centro_de_La_Paz_en_Bolivia.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Centro de la Paz, Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/90/Centro_de_La_Paz_en_Bolivia.JPG/800px-Centro_de_La_Paz_en_Bolivia.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Centro de la Paz.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9a/Ni%C3%B1os_ejecutando_una_tarkeada.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Bolivian children playing tarka.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9a/Ni%C3%B1os_ejecutando_una_tarkeada.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Bolivian children playing tarka.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/bl/images/BL_002.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''La Paz, capital of Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
 
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/98/Los_Yungas_La_Paz_-_Bolivia.jpg/800px-Los_Yungas_La_Paz_-_Bolivia.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Los Yungas, La Paz, Bolivia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Mujeres_aymara_con_siku_y_caja_-_flickr-photos-micahmacallen-85524669_%28CC-BY-SA%29.jpg/450px-Mujeres_aymara_con_siku_y_caja_-_flickr-photos-micahmacallen-85524669_%28CC-BY-SA%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Festival in Sucre.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d4/Mujeres_aymara_con_siku_y_caja_-_flickr-photos-micahmacallen-85524669_%28CC-BY-SA%29.jpg/450px-Mujeres_aymara_con_siku_y_caja_-_flickr-photos-micahmacallen-85524669_%28CC-BY-SA%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Festival in Sucre.'''<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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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2620/4129154925_26da2b4378_n.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''El Alto Parade.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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=Bolivia Adoption Alert=
 
  
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<span style="color:red">'''NOTICE: Procedural Barriers to Hague Adoptions (as of April 26, 2013)'''
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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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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.
  
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The Office of Children’s Issues and the U.S. Embassy in La Paz have received numerous inquiries from prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] interested in adopting children from Bolivia.
 
  
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=About Bolivia=
  
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Bolivia is a Party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention.  Therefore, in order to [[adopt]] a Bolivian child, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are required to work with a Hague- accredited U.S. [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] (ASP) who is also authorized by the Ministry of Justice, which is the Bolivian Central Authority, to facilitate adoptions of Bolivian children.  However, Bolivia has not authorized any U.S. Hague-accredited ASPs to process adoptions of Bolivian children.  As a result, the intercountry [[adoption]] of children from Bolivia to the United States is not possible at this time.  Although the U.S. Embassy will continue to engage with the Bolivian government on this issue, we cannot estimate when the Bolivian government will authorize a U.S. ASP to facilitate Bolivian adoptions.
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[[Bolivia]], named after independence fighter Simon BOLIVAR, broke away from Spanish rule in 1825; much of its subsequent history has consisted of a series of nearly 200 coups and countercoups.  To learn more, read [[About Bolivia]].
  
  
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The foregoing does not affect the ability of an [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] who is habitually resident outside of the United States to file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for an [[adopted]] child from Bolivia with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  To be considered habitually resident outside of the United States, the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] must complete two years of [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] and shared residency in Bolivia with the child.
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=Bolivia Adoption Alert=
  
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There have been numerous [[adoption]] alerts posted for [[Bolivia]].  To learn more, read [[Bolivia Adoption Alert]].
  
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USCIS determines whether a child meets the definition of an “[[adopted]] child”, and qualifies for immigration on a case-by-case basis.  For more information about Form I-130, please visit the [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/other-adoption-related-immigration USCIS Form I-130 processing page].
 
  
 
=Hague Convention Information=
 
=Hague Convention Information=
  
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[[Bolivia]] 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 [[Bolivia]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.  Read more about [[Bolivia and the Hague Convention]].
  
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Bolivia 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 Bolivia and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
 
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One of the requirements of the Convention is to have access to an authorized [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] in Bolivia to process inter-country adoptions. Unfortunately, to this date the Bolivian Government has not implemented regulations for [[International Adoptions|international adoptions]] nor authorized any U.S. [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] to operate in this country, making the process very difficult if not impossible. If your plan is to [[adopt]] a child and immediately go back to the U.S. you must meet all the requirements of the Convention.
 
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'''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and Bolivia is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Bolivia, 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 [[Bolivia]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Bolivia]], 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). To learn more, read about [[Who Can Adopt from Bolivia]].
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Bolivia also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
 
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==Residency==
 
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U.S. citizens must be legal residents of Bolivia in order to [[adopt]] in Bolivia.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be between 25 to 50 years of age or 15 years older than the [[adopted]] child to [[adopt]] a child in Bolivia.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Bolivia allows both married and single people to [[adopt]].
 
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==Income==
 
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N/A
 
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==Other==
 
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N/A
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Bolivia is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Bolivia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Bolivia attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Bolivia's 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 [[Bolivia]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Bolivia]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that [[Bolivia]] attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to [[Bolivia]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States. To learn more, read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Bolivia]]
  
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'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
 
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'''[[Abandonment]] Requirements:'''
 
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In order to be eligible for [[adoption]], a Bolivian child must be "abandoned." [[Abandonment]] is a legal finding made by the Bolivian court, and must occur before the child is assigned to prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. In effect, this prohibits so-called "direct" adoptions, in which the [[Birth Parent|birth parent]] gives a child directly (or via an intermediary) to specific prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] for [[adoption]]. In addition, this effectively bars [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] from searching for and locating a child on their own. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must work with the Vice-Ministry of Gender and Generational Affairs to locate a child that is eligible for [[adoption]].
 
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'''Waiting Period'''
 
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[[Adoption]] proceedings can, by law, take from 25 to 45 working days from the date of the first hearing, although it is not uncommon for the procedures to take even longer. The length of the process often depends on which court has [[jurisdiction]] over the case.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
  
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==Adoption Authority==
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Because [[Bolivia]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Bolivia]] 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. Read about [[How to Adopt from Bolivia]].
  
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'''Bolivia's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
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The governmental authority responsible for [[adoption]] matters in Bolivia is the Vice-Ministry of Gender and Generational Affairs (Viceministerio de Género y Asuntos Generacionales), which may be reached via the following contact information:
 
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==The Process==
 
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Because Bolivia is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Bolivia 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 BoliviaY 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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# Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]
 
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# Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]
 
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# Be Matched with a Child
 
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# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States
 
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in Bolivia
 
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# Bring your Child Home
 
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:''' 
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Bolivia 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 Bolivia. [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]. 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 Bolivia. Bolivia's [[adoption]] authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Bolivia's law.
 
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
 
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If both the United States and Bolivia determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Bolivia 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 particfular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
 
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Once the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are matched with a child, they must then apply to the Bolivian court that has [[jurisdiction]] over the child. A Bolivian attorney must submit the request for [[adoption]] to the Vice-Ministry of Gender and Generational Affairs along with a copy a [[Social Worker|social worker]]'s report of the prospective adoptive 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. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php 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 Bolivia'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 Bolivia:'''
 
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'''''Remember: Before you [[adopt]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in Bolivia, 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 Bolivia.'''''
 
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Bolivia generally includes the following:
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] AUTHORITY:''' Once the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] has been issued, the [[adoption]] is recorded in a national registry maintained by the Vice-Ministry of Gender and Generational Affairs. At this point, at least one of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will need to the I-800A and I-800 in the United States with the Department of Homeland Security. If approved, the 800 petition will be returned to the Consular Section's Immigrant Visa (IV) Unit in La Paz for visa processing. The Immigrant Visa Unit will then coordinate with the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to arrange an immigrant visa interview on behalf of the child. For further information regarding U.S. immigration requirements and how to apply for a visa for adoptive children, please see the sections below entitled "U.S. Immigration Requirements" and "Applying for a Visa for Your Child at the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia."
 
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*'''TIME FRAME:'''  Bolivian adoptions can be time-consuming. Recent experience suggests that the total time required will be several months to over one year. When a married couple is adopting, it is sufficient for one spouse to remain in Bolivia for the duration of the [[adoption]] process; it is not necessary that both do so. However, both [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be present for the preliminary hearing on provisional placement, the evaluation, and the ratification of the [[adoption]] by the court. At least one prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] should plan to stay in Bolivia for approximately four to six weeks. '''[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] are advised NOT to make travel plans for an adoptive child until they have the child's U.S. visa.''' The Immigrant Visa Unit at the U.S. Embassy in La Paz will do its best to process [[adoption]] visa paperwork quickly; however, unexpected delays in the [[adoption]] process are possible. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service and consular officials have no authority to intervene in any Bolivian legal process.
 
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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. The U.S. Embassy in Bolivia 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 Bolivia at risk.
 
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:'''  The following is a general list of documents that are required for [[adoption]] in Bolivia. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that other documents may be required. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are advised to have several extra copies of each document on hand when traveling to Bolivia. Documents to be submitted by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] include (but are not limited to) the following:
 
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:::1. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' birth certificates;
 
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:::2. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' marriage certificate(s), if applicable;
 
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:::3. [[Home Study|Home study]] conducted by an approved [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]];
 
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:::4. Physical and psychological health certificates;
 
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:::5. Financial and employment certifications;
 
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:::6. (2-3) Personal references and police clearances;
 
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:::7. Evidence that prospective parent(s) has participated in and completed a parenting workshop (this may be undertaken in the United States).
 
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'''Each document must be authenticated in the United States (see the following section for information regarding the authentication of documents).'''
 
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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. Bringing 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. Bolivian 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 Bolivia.
 
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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 [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php medical report] on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should advise the U.S. Embassy in Bolivia when Bolivian [[adoption]] formalities have been completed and provide the Consular Section with originals and one set of copies of the documents listed below: 
 
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:::: 1. [[Original Birth Certificate]] of the child;
 
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:::: 2. Original New Birth Certificate of the child;
 
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:::: 3. Medical Certificate of the child;
 
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:::: 4. Copy of valid passports of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
 
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:::: 5. Copy of child's Bolivian passport;
 
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:::: 6. Final [[Decree of Adoption]] of the child; and
 
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:::: 7. Other documents as requested by consular officials.
 
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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 Bolivia. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Bolivia]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. Read more about [[Traveling Abroad in Bolivia]]
  
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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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'''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.
 
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To find information about obtaining a visa for Bolivia, 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.
 
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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 Bolivia, 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=
  
 +
'''What does [[Bolivia]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' 
  
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'''What does Bolivia require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' 
+
We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of [[Bolivia]] 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.  
−
 
+
−
We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of Bolivia 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==
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=Contact Information=
  
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Bolivia'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Bolivia]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
American Embassy - Consular Section  
 
American Embassy - Consular Section  
 
Avenida Arce 2780, between calles Cordero and Campos  
 
Avenida Arce 2780, between calles Cordero and Campos  
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La Paz, Bolivia
+
La Paz, [[Bolivia]]
  
  
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'''Bolivia's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Bolivia]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
   
 
   
 
Av. 16 de Julio #1219  
 
Av. 16 de Julio #1219  
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La Paz, Bolivia  
+
La Paz, [[Bolivia]]
 
Telephone: 591 - 2 - 212 4725; 591- 2 -212 4727  
 
Telephone: 591 - 2 - 212 4725; 591- 2 -212 4727  
 
Email: vicejunite@alamo.entelnet.bo
 
Email: vicejunite@alamo.entelnet.bo
  
  
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'''Embassy of Bolivia in the United States'''
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'''Embassy of [[Bolivia]] in the United States'''
 
   
 
   
 
3014 [[Massachusetts]] Ave., N.W.  
 
3014 [[Massachusetts]] Ave., N.W.  
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Bolivia also has Consulates General in Houston, Miami, [[New York]], [[Oklahoma]] City and Seattle.
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[[Bolivia]] also has Consulates General in Houston, Miami, [[New York]], [[Oklahoma]] City and Seattle.
  
  
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==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''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=bolivia]
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=bolivia
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 02:00, 18 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

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

Centro de la Paz.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Bolivian children playing tarka.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Festival in Sucre.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

El Alto Parade.
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 Bolivia

Bolivia, named after independence fighter Simon BOLIVAR, broke away from Spanish rule in 1825; much of its subsequent history has consisted of a series of nearly 200 coups and countercoups. To learn more, read About Bolivia.


Bolivia Adoption Alert

There have been numerous adoption alerts posted for Bolivia. To learn more, read Bolivia Adoption Alert.


Hague Convention Information

Bolivia 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 Bolivia and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. Read more about Bolivia and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Bolivia is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Bolivia, 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). To learn more, read about Who Can Adopt from Bolivia.


Who Can Be Adopted

Because Bolivia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Bolivia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Bolivia attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Bolivia's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States. To learn more, read about Who Can Be Adopted from Bolivia


How to Adopt

Because Bolivia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Bolivia 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. Read about How to Adopt from Bolivia.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

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

We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of Bolivia 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 is a good place to start your support group search:


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 Bolivia

American Embassy - Consular Section Avenida Arce 2780, between calles Cordero and Campos La Paz, Bolivia


Bolivia's Adoption Authority

Av. 16 de Julio #1219 La Paz, Bolivia Telephone: 591 - 2 - 212 4725; 591- 2 -212 4727 Email: vicejunite@alamo.entelnet.bo


Embassy of Bolivia in the United States

3014 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 483-4410


Bolivia also has Consulates General in Houston, Miami, New York, Oklahoma City and Seattle.


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 adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=bolivia