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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Cote d'Ivoire"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/iv-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/iv-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/iv-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/iv-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/afr/iv_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/iv_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Adjamemarche1.jpg/800px-Adjamemarche1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A street market in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Adjamemarche1.jpg/800px-Adjamemarche1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A street market in Abidjan.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/29/Ivorian_woman.jpg/400px-Ivorian_woman.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''An Ivorian woman.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/29/Ivorian_woman.jpg/400px-Ivorian_woman.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''An Ivorian woman.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/9558974382_cf9e717438.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/9558974382_cf9e717438.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/9494146268_19d133772b.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/9494146268_19d133772b.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4d/Coat_of_Arms_of_C%C3%B4te_d%27Ivoire.svg/679px-Coat_of_Arms_of_C%C3%B4te_d%27Ivoire.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms for Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4d/Coat_of_Arms_of_C%C3%B4te_d%27Ivoire.svg/679px-Coat_of_Arms_of_C%C3%B4te_d%27Ivoire.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/6/64/Laundry_in_the_river.jpg/800px-Laundry_in_the_river.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Laundry in the river in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Laundry_in_the_river.jpg/800px-Laundry_in_the_river.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Laundry in the river in Abidjan.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7335/9506447669_26a0a0c036.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''An elephant in Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7335/9506447669_26a0a0c036.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3768/9490489456_54c674f3d4.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street scene in Cote d'Ivoire.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3768/9490489456_54c674f3d4.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street scene.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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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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'''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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Côte d’Ivoire is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]]([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]).  Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [http://www.uscis.gov/iframe/ilink/docView/SLB/HTML/SLB/0-0-0-1/0-0-0-29/0-0-0-101/0-0-0-434.html Immigration and Nationality Act], Section 101(b)(1)(F).
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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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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
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=About Cote d'Ivoire=
  
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Close ties to [[France]] following independence in 1960, the development of cocoa production for export, and foreign investment all made [[Cote d'Ivoire]] one of the most prosperous of the West African states but did not protect it from political turmoil. In December 1999, a military coup - the first ever in [[Cote d'Ivoire]]'s history - overthrew the government.  To learn more, read [[About Cote d'Ivoire]].
  
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to the United States from Côte d’Ivoire, you must meet [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php eligibility and suitability requirements].  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines who can [[adopt]] under U.S. immigration law.  Additionally, a child must meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of orphan] under U.S. immigration law in order to be eligible to immigrate to the United States on an IR-3 or IR-4 immigrant visa.
 
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the following requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from Côte d’Ivoire:   
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Côte d’Ivoire is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]]([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]). To learn more, read about [[Cote d'Ivoire and the Hague Convention]].
  
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==Residency==
 
  
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The [[adoption]] law requires a mandatory [[Home Study|home study]] and a six-month integration period.  In some past instances, however, the Court of Justice has waived the requirement or reduced the length of time provided that the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) prove that they have seen and have been supporting the adoptive child.
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=Who Can Adopt=
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the numerous requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from Côte d’Ivoire.  To learn more, please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Cote d'Ivoire]].
  
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The prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) must be more than thirty years old and must be at least 15 years older than the adoptive child.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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A prospective adoptive couple must be married for at least five years, and both individuals must consent to the [[adoption]].  Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals and same-sex couples are not eligible to [[adopt]].
 
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==Income==
 
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Income requirements are not specifically addressed in the [[adoption]] law.  The law states that “the [[adoption]] is not possible unless there are clear and convincing reasons and if it will confer advantages to the [[adopted]] child.”  That is, the [[adoption]] should be beneficial for the child at all levels.  The judge will, therefore, verify whether the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) are financially capable to provide good care for the child.  In addition, in order to be eligible to [[adopt]] [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) must include in their application, addressed to the Direction de la Protection Sociale (Department of Social Welfare), any proof of income whether they are employed or self-employed.
 
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==Other==
 
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N/A
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Côte d’Ivoire has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]:  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Côte d’Ivoire has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more about these requirements, please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Cote d'Ivoire]].
  
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'''[[Relinquishment]]:'''  Children placed in an [[orphanage]] by the biological parent(s) for financial inability or other personal reasons are not available for [[adoption]] unless the parent(s) irrevocably relinquish their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] and consent to the child’s [[adoption]] in accordance with the law.
 
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'''[[Abandonment]]:'''  Foundlings, directly placed in public orphanages, are considered abandoned if the biological parents cannot be located after three months of police investigation.
 
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'''Age of Adoptive Child:'''  With regard to full [[adoption]], the law states that the child must be under 15 years old.  However, the maximum of age for an [[orphan]] placed in a public [[orphanage]] is 12 years old.  Important note:  U.S. law requires a child to be under the age of 16 at the time the petition is filed to qualify for a U.S. immigrant visa, unless the child is the natural sibling of another child who was [[adopted]] by the same parents while under the age of 18.
 
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'''Sibling Adoptions:'''  Sibling adoptions are allowed.  No priority is given to prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] adopting siblings.
 
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'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:'''  A medical examination is required for an [[orphan]] before the child can be released from the [[orphanage]].  The medical examination is the responsibility of the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s).
 
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'''Waiting Period or [[Foster Care]]:'''  The law requires a mandatory six-month period for [[Foster Care|foster care]] but in practice it is not always enforced.
 
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'''''Caution:  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are adoptable.  In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an [[orphanage]] or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when this becomes possible.  In such cases, the [[Birth Parent|birth parent]](s) have rarely relinquished their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] or consented to their child(ren)’s [[adoption]].'''''
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
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'''Côte d’Ivoire [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
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The government offices responsible for [[adoption]] in Côte d'Ivoire are the Ministère de l’Emploi, des Affaires Sociales et de la Solidarité (Ministry of Employment, Social Welfare and Solidarity) and the Ministère de la Justice (Ministry of Justice).  More specifically, the Direction de la Protection Sociale (Department of Social Welfare) has [[jurisdiction]] over the child's identification process, the [[Home Study|home study]] and the issuance of a certificate authorizing the [[orphanage]] to release the child to the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s).  The Tribunal de Première Instance (Court of First Instance) has sole authority to grant or deny legal [[adoption]].
 
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==The Process==
 
  
 
The process for adopting a child from Côte d’Ivoire generally includes the following steps:
 
The process for adopting a child from Côte d’Ivoire generally includes the following steps:
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# Bring your child home
 
# Bring your child home
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Cote d'Ivoire]].
  
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'''1.  Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]''' 
 
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The recommended first step in adopting a child from Côte d’Ivoire is to decide whether or not to use a [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php licensed adoption service provider] in the United States that can help you with your [[adoption]].  [[Adoption]] service providers must be licensed by the U.S. state in which they operate.  The Department of State provides information on selecting an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] on its website.
 
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'''''There are no private [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Côte d'Ivoire.'''''  All [[adoption]] matters are processed through the Department of Social Welfare and/or the Court of First Instance.  The Department of Social Welfare requires that foreign prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) living abroad submit an official authorization for [[adoption]] issued by authorized U.S. [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] from their state of residence. This can be a formal U.S. [[Home Study|home study]].
 
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'''2.  Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]'''
 
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In order to [[adopt]] a child from Côte d’Ivoire you will need to meet the requirements of the Government of Côte d’Ivoire and U.S. immigration law. If the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] already identified the child, the request for [[adoption]] is directly processed through the Court of First Instance as described in Section 4.  When a child is not yet identified, the first step must be followed with the Department of Social Welfare of Côte d’Ivoire, as described below.  Please note:  All Ivoirian fees noted in the flyer are set in Euros; the U.S. dollar estimate is based on the current Euro-U.S. dollar exchange rate and may fluctuate. 
 
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::::1. Prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) must submit an application to be found eligible to [[adopt]] with the Department of Social Welfare of Côte d’Ivoire.  The application includes a written request from the prospective parent(s) addressed to the Directeur de la Protection Sociale (Head of Social Welfare Department) along with specific supporting documents.  The request should mention the motives for [[adoption]] and must indicate the age range and the gender of the adoptive child.
 
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::::2. The following documents, originals or certified copies, must be attached to the application:
 
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:::::*. Birth certificates of the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s);
 
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:::::*. Police Clearance;
 
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:::::*. Copy of passport or National ID card;
 
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:::::*. One ID photograph;
 
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:::::*. Marriage certificate for legally married couples;
 
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:::::*. Proof of income (pay slips or other proof);
 
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:::::*. Medical certificate confirming sterility if this is the basis for [[adoption]];
 
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:::::*. The foreign state authorization for [[adoption]]. ([[I-600A]] or I600).
 
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::::3. The complete file should be sent to or dropped off at the following address in order to receive a registration number: Direction de la Protection Sociale, BP V 200 Immeuble le Général, 5e étage, Plateau, Abidjan 01, Côte d’Ivoire.  You may also call (+225) 22 32 42 33 for directions.
 
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::::4. The registration is subject to the payment of fees which are separate from the court fees.  The fee for foreign citizens residing in or outside Côte d’Ivoire is currently $123.  This fee is non-refundable.
 
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::::5. The committee in charge of placing children in foster-homes will review the applications for [[adoption]], conduct the [[Home Study|home study]] and will start looking for a child [[matching]] the criteria indicated by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].  This committee meets four times per year, on a quarterly basis in March, June, September and December.
 
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::::6. The application remains open for two years from the date of registration and will be reviewed during each quarterly session if no decision has yet been made.  The prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) will be notified in writing of the final decision. 
 
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To meet U.S. immigration requirements, you may also file an [[I-600A]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600a Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition] with U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to be found eligible and suitable to [[adopt]]. 
 
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'''3.  Be Matched with a Child'''
 
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If you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority or other authorized entity in Côte d’Ivoire will provide you with a referral.  Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of and provide a permanent home for a particular child.  The child must be eligible to be [[adopted]] according to Côte d’Ivoire’s requirements, as described in the Who Can Be [[Adopted]] section.  The child must also meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of orphan] under U.S. immigration law. 
 
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Once the application is approved and a child is identified for [[adoption]], the committee issues to the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) an authorization to take the child from the [[orphanage]] for a mandatory medical examination.  The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are responsible for paying the medical fees which are currently $400.  Upon the completion of the medical examination, the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) are required to confirm in writing their intent to [[adopt]].  Once their confirmation is received, the committee will issue an authorization to the [[orphanage]] to release the child for [[Foster Care|foster care]] to the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s).  However, the release is also subject to the payment of a compulsory financial contribution to the [[orphanage]] for the upkeep of the other abandoned children.  The amount set for foreign [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] whether living in country or abroad is currently $ 616.
 
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'''4.  [[Adopt]] or Gain [[Legal Custody]] of Child in Côte d’Ivoire'''
 
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Côte d’Ivoire goes through the Court of First Instance.
 
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Once the child is officially placed in [[Foster Care|foster care]], the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) may submit a request for legal [[adoption]] to the court.  Although, the law states that it is only upon the completion of a six-month period that the judge may receive a request for and grant a full [[adoption]], in practice, the court is more lenient with [[International Adoptions|international adoptions]] considering various constraints as factors in the decision.
 
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'''''There are two types of adoptions in Cote d'Ivoire: the simple [[adoption]] ([[Adoption]] Simple) and the full [[adoption]] ([[Adoption]] Plénière).'''''  The simple [[adoption]] is roughly equivalent of a guardianship order and does not sever [[Parental Rights|parental rights]].  The full [[adoption]] is a permanent, irrevocable severing of ties with the biological parents and creation of a legal parent-child relationship with the same rights as a biological child.  However, please note that only a full [[adoption]] is considered a valid [[adoption]] for U.S. immigration purposes. 
 
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Upon receipt of the request for legal [[adoption]], the court will review the facts surrounding the [[adoption]], the documents supporting the request and may verify the biological parents’ consent if applicable.  When satisfied, the court schedules a date for the hearing to issue the official [[adoption]] judgment.  At the same time, the judge makes a decision on the name of the [[adopted]] child and authorizes the birth certificate to be amended to reflect the name of the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) as the new legal surname of the child.
 
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'''''Please note that if the child is not an [[orphan]], the biological parents are required by law to consent in writing to the [[adoption]].  The written consent must be attached to the application for [[adoption]] along with the other supporting documents.'''''
 
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'''NOTE:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) are advised to fully research any [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] or facilitator they plan to use for [[adoption]] services.  For U.S.-based agencies, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may wish to consider contacting the Better Business Bureau and/or the licensing office in the U.S. state where the agency is located or licensed.
 
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The documentary requirements for processing adoptions before the court are the following:
 
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* A written request for legal full [[adoption]] from the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s);
 
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* Birth certificates of the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s);
 
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* Marriage certificate for legally married couples;
 
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* Proof of income (pay slips or other proof);
 
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* Medical certificate confirming sterility, if this is the basis for [[adoption]];
 
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* The official certificate issued by the local Department of Social Welfare authorizing [[Foster Care|foster care]].
 
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* A U.S. [[Home Study|home study]] may be useful, if translated into French;
 
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* Consent for [[adoption]], in writing, with the signature(s) of the biological parent(s), if known, duly attested by a Notary Public.
 
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* Time Frame:  The legal process generally may be finalized within a year.
 
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* [[Adoption]] Fees:  The [[adoption]] process involves administrative fees associated with the medical examination, as well as for court procedures.  The administrative and medical fees are described in section 2 (c) and section 3.  The court fees consist of $ 59.00 to register the case at court.  Additional fees involve the purchase of a revenue stamp of $1.60 for issuance of the birth certificate, and the payment of a $ 75.00 application fee for an Ivoirian passport.
 
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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. Learn how.
 
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'''Authentication of Documents:'''  You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic.  If so, the Department of State, Authentications Office may be able to assist.
 
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'''5.  Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Orphan]] Status'''
 
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After you finalize the [[adoption]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Côte d’Ivoire, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must determine whether the child meets the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of orphan] under U.S. immigration law.  You will need to file a Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative]. 
 
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'''6.  Bring Your Child Home'''
 
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Once your [[adoption]] is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), you need to apply for several documents for your child before you can apply for a U.S. immigrant visa to bring your child home to the United States:
 
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
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If you have finalized the [[adoption]] in Côte d’Ivoire you will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child.  Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.  If you have been granted [[custody]] for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States, the birth certificate you obtain will, in most cases, not yet include your name.  Birth certificates are issued by the Civil Registry (Mairie) having [[jurisdiction]] over the child’s place of birth.  The [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) will take a copy of the full [[adoption]] judgment to the civil registry officer who will amend the initial birth certificate to [[ADD|add]] the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) surname on the document.
 
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::2. Côte d’Ivoire 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 Côte d’Ivoire. '''''Caution:  Please note that only a citizen of Côte d’Ivoire is entitled to an Ivoirian passport.  It is advisable to apply for the passport using the [[Original Birth Certificate|original birth certificate]] of the child because once the name of the foreign [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] appears on the birth certificate as the child’s parent, the child is no longer considered an Ivoirian citizen but rather as a child of a U.S. citizen and ineligible for an Ivoirian passport.'''''
 
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To apply for an Ivoirian passport, you should follow the steps below:
 
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::::::1. Download the form from:  [http://www.snedai.com/docs/formulaire_passeport_ci.pdf Snedai] (or obtain it directly from the passport agencies);
 
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::::::2. Pay the $75 application fee at the following bank agencies in Abidjan: Cobaci or Ecobank;
 
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::::::3. Get the receipt of payment;
 
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::::::4. Gather the required documents below:
 
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::::::::*One photo ID of the child for the passport application
 
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::::::::*[[Original Birth Certificate|Original birth certificate]] of the child
 
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::::::::*Original certificate of Ivoirian citizenship (white color)
 
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::::::::*Copy of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]’ passports
 
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::::::::*Original Full [[Adoption Decree]] (Jugement d’[[Adoption]] Plénière)
 
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::::::5. Take the above documents to one of the passport agencies listed below, all located in Abidjan:
 
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:::::::::a. Plateau, Police Headquarters
 
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:::::::::b. Cocody, Boulevard Latrille coming from Cocody, 200 m after Sococé on the left side, before the DUNCAN intersection.
 
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:::::::::c. Marcory, GFCI, 100 m from the new market, going to Anoumambo.
 
−
:::::::::d. Yopougon, Selmer Sicogi, 100 m from the City Hall, going to William Ponty High School.
 
−
 
−
::::::6. A registration receipt will be given.  This receipt must be presented to pick up the passport when ready.
 
−
 
−
::::::7. Processing time is approximately one week.
 
−
 
−
 
−
'''NOTE:'''  More information may be obtained on the [http://www.snedai.com website].
 
−
 
−
::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
 
−
 
−
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child and you have filed Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative], you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.  This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you.  As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the Panel Physician’s [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php medical report] on the child.  You can find instructions for applying for an immigrant visa on the [http://abidjan.usembassy.gov. U.S. Embassy Abidjan's website].
 
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the [[adoption]] was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000]. 
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized after the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  An [[adoption]] will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship. 
 
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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 [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html 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'''
  
−
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. 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.
+
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more, read about [[Traveling Abroad in Cote d'Ivoire]].
−
 
+
−
 
+
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'''Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Cote d'Ivoire'''
+
−
 
+
−
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are affixed to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about obtaining a visa for Cote d'Ivoire, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
+
−
 
+
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+
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'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
+
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+
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Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country.  The Department of State provides [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information] for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
+
−
 
+
−
 
+
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'''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
+
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+
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When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State.  Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary.  Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Cote d'Ivoire enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
+
  
−
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the [https://step.state.gov/step/ Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)].
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
−
Cote d'Ivoire has no post [[adoption]] requirements.
+
[[Cote d'Ivoire]] has no post [[adoption]] requirements.
  
−
Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]].  There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and [[adoptee]] organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.  
+
Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]].  There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and [[adoptee]] [[organizations]] active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.  
  
  
Line 296: Line 89:
  
  
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==Contact Information==
+
=Contact Information=
  
 
'''U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire'''
 
'''U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire'''
Line 306: Line 99:
 
Fax: (225) 22-49-42-02
 
Fax: (225) 22-49-42-02
 
Email:abjamcit@state.gov
 
Email:abjamcit@state.gov
−
Internet: [abidjan.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy in Cote d'Ivoire]
+
Internet: [abidjan.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy in [[Cote d'Ivoire]]]
 
   
 
   
  
Line 322: Line 115:
  
 
Tribunal de Première Instance d'Abidjan
 
Tribunal de Première Instance d'Abidjan
−
BP V 33 Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire
+
BP V 33 Abidjan, [[Cote d'Ivoire]]
 
Tel: (225) 20 223 586  
 
Tel: (225) 20 223 586  
  
Line 328: Line 121:
 
'''Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire'''
 
'''Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire'''
  
−
Embassy of the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire
+
Embassy of the Republic of [[Cote d'Ivoire]]
 
2424 [[Massachusetts]] Avenue, NW,
 
2424 [[Massachusetts]] Avenue, NW,
 
[[Washington]], D.C. 20007,
 
[[Washington]], D.C. 20007,
Line 363: Line 156:
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
−
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=cote_divoire]
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=cote_divoire
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 04:11, 18 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

A street market in Abidjan.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

An Ivorian woman.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

'
Source: flickr.com.

'
Source: flickr.com.

The official coat of arms
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Laundry in the river in Abidjan.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

'
Source: flickr.com.

Street scene.
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 Cote d'Ivoire

Close ties to France following independence in 1960, the development of cocoa production for export, and foreign investment all made Cote d'Ivoire one of the most prosperous of the West African states but did not protect it from political turmoil. In December 1999, a military coup - the first ever in Cote d'Ivoire's history - overthrew the government. To learn more, read About Cote d'Ivoire.


Hague Convention Information

Côte d’Ivoire is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(Hague Adoption Convention). To learn more, read about Cote d'Ivoire and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the numerous requirements in order to adopt a child from Côte d’Ivoire. To learn more, please read about Who Can Adopt from Cote d'Ivoire.


Who Can Be Adopted

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Côte d’Ivoire has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption. To learn more about these requirements, please read about Who Can Be Adopted from Cote d'Ivoire.


How to Adopt

The process for adopting a child from Côte d’Ivoire generally includes the following steps:


  1. Choose an adoption service provider
  2. Apply to be found eligible to adopt
  3. Be matched with a child
  4. Adopt the child in Côte d’Ivoire
  5. Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
  6. Bring your child home

To learn more about this process please read How to Adopt from Cote d'Ivoire.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

Cote d'Ivoire has no post adoption requirements.

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


Here are some places to start your support group search:


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children

Adoption Services Support Groups for adopting Persons


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire

U.S. Embassy Abidjan 01 B.P. 1712, Abidjan 01 Côte d'Ivoire Tel: (225) 22-49-40-00 Fax: (225) 22-49-42-02 Email:abjamcit@state.gov Internet: [abidjan.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy in Cote d'Ivoire]


Côte d’Ivoire Adoption Authority

Mr. le Directeur Direction de la Protection Sociale Direction Générale des Affaires Sociales Ministère d’Etat, Ministère de l’Emploi, des Affaires Sociales et de la Solidarité BP V 200 Abidjan 01 Tel: (225) 20 322 683 or 20 324 233


Monsieur le Président

Tribunal de Première Instance d'Abidjan BP V 33 Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire Tel: (225) 20 223 586


Embassy of Côte d’Ivoire

Embassy of the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire 2424 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20007, Telephone: (202) 797-0300.


Côte d’Ivoire also has consulates in: San Francisco, Stamford (CT), Orlando, Houston, and Detroit.


Office of Children’s Issues

U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street, N.W. (SA-29) Washington, DC 20520 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 Email: AskCI@state.gov Internet: [[[adoption]].state.gov U.S. Department of State]


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

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


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

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

SOURCE

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