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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Fiji"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/fj-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/fj-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/fj-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/fj-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/aus/fj_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/aus/fj_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/80/BureNavala2.jpg/800px-BureNavala2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/80/BureNavala2.jpg/800px-BureNavala2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Huts in the village of Navala in the Nausori Highlands.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/be/Fijian_children_DSC_0024.jpg/800px-Fijian_children_DSC_0024.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Fijian children.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2c/The_Point_%28Fiji%29.jpg/800px-The_Point_%28Fiji%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2c/The_Point_%28Fiji%29.jpg/800px-The_Point_%28Fiji%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/83/Sri_Siva_Subramaniya_Temple.jpg/800px-Sri_Siva_Subramaniya_Temple.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/83/Sri_Siva_Subramaniya_Temple.jpg/800px-Sri_Siva_Subramaniya_Temple.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Sri Siva Temple.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3d/Fijians%2C_Raviravi%2C_Fiji%2C_Summer_2006.jpg/800px-Fijians%2C_Raviravi%2C_Fiji%2C_Summer_2006.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Fijians.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
  
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Fiji 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]).  Intercountry [[adoption]] processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry [[Adoption]] Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Fiji.
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
 +
The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.
  
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'''Intercountry [[adoption]] is not possible from Fiji at this time.'''  For more information please see the related notice.
 
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
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=About Fiji=
  
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To bring an adopted child to United States from Fiji, you must 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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[[Fiji]] became independent in 1970 after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987 caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community (descendants of contract laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century). The coups and a 1990 constitution that cemented native Melanesian control of [[Fiji]] led to heavy Indian emigration; the population [[loss]] resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. To learn more please read [[About Fiji]].
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Fiji also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
 
  
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==Residency==
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=Fiji Adoption Alert=
  
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According to Fiji law American citizens wishing to adopt orphans from that country MUST be residents in the Republic of Fiji. This means applicants are living and/or working in Fiji, or have property or other demonstrated connections to Fiji. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be long-term residents of Fiji (at least 3 months) in order for them to apply for and be granted a full and final [[adoption]] order. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be physically present in court to file an application for [[adoption]] and must remain in Fiji until the final [[adoption]] order is granted. In addition, applicants must reside with a child or contribute to a child's welfare for a minimum of three months prior to application.  
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There have been several [[adoption]] alerts for [[Fiji]] over the years. To learn more please read the [[Fiji Adoption Alert]] page.
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
  
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At least one prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] must have attained the age of 25. Applicants must be at least 21 years older than the child.
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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==Marriage==
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[[Fiji]] 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]).  Intercountry [[adoption]] processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing [[legislation]], the Intercountry [[Adoption]] Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing [[legislation]] and regulations of [[Fiji]].
  
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A single male applicant cannot adopt a female child. Fiji law permits both single and married foreigners to adopt Fijian children.
 
  
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==Income==
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'''Intercountry [[adoption]] is not possible from [[Fiji]] at this time.'''  For more information please see the related notice.
  
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Income should be above average and prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should live in a conducive environment. Proof of income will have to be submitted to the Department of Social Welfare.
 
  
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==Other==
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=Who Can Adopt=
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to United States from [[Fiji]], you must be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read [[Who Can Adopt from Fiji]].
  
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The applicants must have no adverse police record relating to any offense involving violence towards a child or [[abuse]] of child.
 
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The applicant must be able to provide a secure and stable home environment for the child.  The court and the Department of Social Welfare are inclined to look more favorable on cases where the child and the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are related by blood. Most [[orphan]] visa cases involve prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who are former residents of Fiji and who have family ties in Fiji. The Fijian court takes these issues into account when deciding whether the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] have fulfilled Fiji's residency requirements.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Fiji has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. You cannot adopt a child in Fiji unless he or she meets these requirements.
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[[Fiji]] has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. You cannot [[adopt]] a child in [[Fiji]] unless he or she meets these requirements. To learn more please read [[Who Can Be Adopted from Fiji]].
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In addition to these requirements, a child must meet the definition of an [[orphan]] under U.S. law for you to bring him or her back to the United States. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn more] about these U.S. requirements.
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'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
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'''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:''' An [[adoption]] order shall not be made in the case of any child unless the child has been continuously in the care and possession of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] for at least three consecutive months immediately preceding the date of the order.
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'''[[Abandonment]] Requirements:''' An [[adoption]] order shall not be made except with the consent of every person or body who is a parent or [[guardian]] of the infant, or who is liable by virtue of any order or agreement to contribute to the maintenance of the infant:
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::::A. Provided that the court may dispense with any consent required by this subsection if it is satisfied:
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::::B. In the case of a parent or [[guardian]] of the infant, that he has abandoned, neglected or persistently ill-treated the infant, or has made no contribution to its maintenance for a period in excess of five years;
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::::C. In the case of a person liable as aforesaid to contribute to the maintenance of the infant, that he has persistently neglected or refused so to contribute;
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::::D. In any case, that the person whose consent is required cannot be found, or is incapable of giving his consent or that his consent is unreasonably withheld.
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Abandoned children are usually wards of the state and the local Government appoints the Social Welfare Department to be their legal guardians.
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'''Age Requirements:''' The child should be under the age of 21 years old.
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'''Sibling Requirements:''' The Social Welfare Department prefers that a sibling of the prospective adoptive child be adopted by the same family, if the sibling is also available for [[adoption]].
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'''Requirements for [[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:''' Living conditions of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be conducive to the child's needs.  
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'''Waiting Period:''' Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must have had the child in their care and possession for a period of three continuous months before an [[adoption]] order will be issued by the court. The total waiting period could be less than four months.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
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'''Fijian [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
'''Fijian [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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The Social Welfare Department, under the Ministry of Women, Social Welfare and Poverty, is in charge of overseeing intercountry adoptions.  For people residing in Fiji, the [[adoption]] authority in Fiji is the Magistrate's court having [[jurisdiction]] over the adopted child's place of residence. Almost every town and city in Fiji has a court.  
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The Social Welfare Department, under the Ministry of Women, Social Welfare and Poverty, is in charge of overseeing intercountry adoptions.  For people residing in [[Fiji]], the [[adoption]] authority in [[Fiji]] is the Magistrate's court having [[jurisdiction]] over the [[adopted]] child's place of residence. Almost every town and city in [[Fiji]] has a court.  
  
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Fiji generally includes the following steps:
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The process for adopting a child from [[Fiji]] generally includes the following steps:
  
  
 
# Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]  
 
# Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]  
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# Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt  
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# Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]
 
# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Be Matched with a Child  
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# Adopt the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Fiji  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in [[Fiji]]
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]  
 
# Bring Your Child Home  
 
# Bring Your Child Home  
  
 +
To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Fiji]].
  
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'''1. Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]'''
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Fiji is usually to select a licensed agency in the United States that can help with your [[adoption]]. [[Adoption]] service providers must be licensed by the U.S. state in which they operate. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php Learn more] about choosing the right [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]].
 
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt'''
 
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To bring an adopted child from Fiji to the United States, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt (Form [[I-600A]]) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php Learn how].  In addition to meeting the U.S. requirements for [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], you need to meet the requirements of Fiji as described in the Who Can Adopt section.
 
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child'''
 
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If you are eligible to adopt, you will have to make your own arrangements to identify a child available for [[adoption]]. Fiji has specific intercountry-[[adoption]] administrative arrangements established with [[Australia]], [[New Zealand]] and Pacific Island Countires. Unfortunately, there are no inter-country arrangements between Fiji and the USA. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of a particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child. .
 
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The child must be eligible to be adopted according to Fijian requirements, as described in the Who Can be Adopted section. The child must also meet the definition of an [[orphan]] under U.S. law. Learn more.
 
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'''4. Adopt the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Fiji'''
 
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Fiji generally includes the following:
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] AUTHORITY:''' The Social Welfare Department, under the Ministry of Women Social Welfare and Poverty Alleviation, oversees all adoptions. The Social Welfare Department is appointed by the court to conduct home studies. The magistrate considers the Social Welfare Department's report as highly persuasive when deciding cases.  There are no lists of local attorneys in Fiji who specialize in adoptions but almost all legal firms in Fiji can assist in facilitating [[adoption]] cases in Fiji.
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] file an Application for [[Adoption]] with the Magistrate's Court.  The Court appoints the Fiji Social Welfare Department as [[Guardian Ad Litem]]. The Social Welfare Department conducts a home-study investigation that assesses the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' character, financial competence and suitability. The primary consideration is whether the proposed [[adoption]] will be in the best interests of the child.  The Magistrate's Court considers whether to grant an [[Adoption]] Order based on the Social Welfare Department's report. If the Social Welfare report is favorable, the court tends to grant the [[Adoption]] Order.
 
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] APPLICATION:''' Tips for working the [[adoption]] through the local [[system]]: Seek legal advice from a local lawyer.  Have the Department of Social Welfare involved from the beginning. It is best to contact it in writing.  Being related to the infant is not necessary but often speeds up the process.
 
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*'''TIME FRAME:''' The time frame from the filing of the motion/application until the [[adoption]] order is issued is approximately four to five months. If the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are biologically related to the child, the process may be quicker.
 
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] FEES:''' A court fee of $45 is required to file the motion and receive the [[Adoption]] Order. Additional attorney fees will apply if the family uses a lawyer. There is no charge for the Social Welfare Department ([[Home Study|home study]]) report.
 
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:''' To file the application at the court prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] generally need to include: 
 
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::::::1. Motion/Application for [[Adoption]] (drafted by an attorney);
 
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::::::2. Affidavits (including original marriage certificates for the perspective adopting parents and consent of release from the biological parent(s) or [[Legal Guardian|legal guardian]] for [[adoption]] and immigration);
 
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::::::3. Notice for an Application for an [[Adoption]] Order (Social Welfare report attached);
 
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::::::4. Child's [[Original Birth Certificate|original birth certificate]];
 
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::::::5. Written consent of release for [[adoption]] of the child from a parent or [[guardian]];
 
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::::::6. Financial documents, such as bank statements;
 
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::::::7. Reference from employer and/or evidence of property;
 
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::::::8. Character reference from the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' community;
 
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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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'''5.Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]'''
 
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After you finalize the [[adoption]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Fiji, the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) MUST determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be adopted (Form [[I-600]]).[http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn how].
 
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'''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
 
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Now that your [[adoption]] is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home.  Specifically, you need to apply for several 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. You, the parents take the [[Adoption]] Order to the Fiji Registrar General [Births, Deaths, and Marriages] in order to amend the original birth record to reflect the completion of the [[adoption]]. The new parents are issued a new birth certificate showing the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] as the child's "Father" and "Mother."
 
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::2. Fijian 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 Fiji.
 
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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-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. [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php Learn more].
 
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Once prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) receive the form I-171: Notice of approval of relative immigrant visa petition from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, we request the American prospective adopting parent(s) begin and maintain contact with the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Suva, Fiji at the address listed above.
 
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'''NOTE:''' The U.S. Embassy cannot issue visas on the same day of the visa interview. Prospective adopting parents should expect to a minimum of two days for the visa to be issued. American families should make their travel plans accordingly, including allowing for the possibility of computer difficulties or other problems that could potentially further delay visa issuance.
 
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]].
 
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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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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.
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U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. To learn more please read [[Traveling Abroad in Fiji]].
  
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'''Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Fiji'''
 
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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 Fiji, 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 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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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 Fiji enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
 
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Enrollment is free and can be done online via the [https://step.state.gov/step/ Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)].
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
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'''What does [[Fiji]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' 
  
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'''What does Fiji require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' 
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We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of [[Fiji]] and complete all post-[[adoption]] requirements in a timely manner. Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country's history of positive experiences with American parents.  
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We strongly urge you to comply with the wish of Fiji 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 Fiji'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Fiji]]'''
  
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Embassy of the United States, Suva, Fiji
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Embassy of the United States, Suva, [[Fiji]]
 
158 Princes Road, Tamavua
 
158 Princes Road, Tamavua
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Suva, Fiji
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Suva, [[Fiji]]
 
Tel: (679) 331-4466
 
Tel: (679) 331-4466
 
Fax: (679) 330-2267
 
Fax: (679) 330-2267
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Government Buildings
 
Government Buildings
 
72 Suva Street, Toorak
 
72 Suva Street, Toorak
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Suva, Fiji
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Suva, [[Fiji]]
 
Tel: (679) 331-5585
 
Tel: (679) 331-5585
  
  
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'''Embassy of Fiji'''
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'''Embassy of [[Fiji]]'''
  
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Embassy of the Republic of the Fiji Islands, [[Washington]], D.C.
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Embassy of the Republic of the [[Fiji]] Islands, [[Washington]], D.C.
 
2000 M Street, NW
 
2000 M Street, NW
 
Suite 710
 
Suite 710
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Fax: 202- 466-8325
 
Fax: 202- 466-8325
 
Email: info@fijiembassydc.com
 
Email: info@fijiembassydc.com
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Internet: [www.fijiembassydc.com Embassy of Fiji]  
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Internet: [www.fijiembassydc.com Embassy of [[Fiji]]]  
  
  
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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=fiji]
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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=fiji
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 04:25, 19 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Huts in the village of Navala in the Nausori Highlands.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Fijian children.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

'
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Sri Siva Temple.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Fijians.
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.

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 Fiji

Fiji became independent in 1970 after nearly a century as a British colony. Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987 caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community (descendants of contract laborers brought to the islands by the British in the 19th century). The coups and a 1990 constitution that cemented native Melanesian control of Fiji led to heavy Indian emigration; the population loss resulted in economic difficulties, but ensured that Melanesians became the majority. To learn more please read About Fiji.


Fiji Adoption Alert

There have been several adoption alerts for Fiji over the years. To learn more please read the Fiji Adoption Alert page.


Hague Convention Information

Fiji is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Fiji.


Intercountry adoption is not possible from Fiji at this time. For more information please see the related notice.


Who Can Adopt

To bring an adopted child to United States from Fiji, you must be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read Who Can Adopt from Fiji.


Who Can Be Adopted

Fiji has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption. You cannot adopt a child in Fiji unless he or she meets these requirements. To learn more please read Who Can Be Adopted from Fiji.


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Fijian Adoption Authority

The Social Welfare Department, under the Ministry of Women, Social Welfare and Poverty, is in charge of overseeing intercountry adoptions. For people residing in Fiji, the adoption authority in Fiji is the Magistrate's court having jurisdiction over the adopted child's place of residence. Almost every town and city in Fiji has a court.


The Process

The process for adopting a child from Fiji 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 (or Gain Legal Custody) in Fiji
  5. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption
  6. Bring Your Child Home

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


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. To learn more please read Traveling Abroad in Fiji.


After Adoption

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

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


What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?

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


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


Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons

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 Fiji

Embassy of the United States, Suva, Fiji 158 Princes Road, Tamavua Suva, Fiji Tel: (679) 331-4466 Fax: (679) 330-2267 Recorded Information: (679) 330-3888 Email: consularsuva@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy Fiji


Fijian Adoption Authority

Social Welfare Department P.O. Box 2127 Government Buildings 72 Suva Street, Toorak Suva, Fiji Tel: (679) 331-5585


Embassy of Fiji

Embassy of the Republic of the Fiji Islands, Washington, D.C. 2000 M Street, NW Suite 710 Washington, D.C. 20036 Tel: 202- 466-8320 Fax: 202- 466-8325 Email: info@fijiembassydc.com Internet: [www.fijiembassydc.com Embassy of Fiji]


Office of Children’s Issues

U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI USA-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) Internet: USCIS


For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 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=fiji