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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Ghana"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/gh-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Ghana.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/gh-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/gh-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Ghana.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/gh-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/gh_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Ghana.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/gh_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fb/Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Republic_of_Ghana.svg/720px-Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Republic_of_Ghana.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official Coat of Arms for Ghana'''<BR/>. Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fb/Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Republic_of_Ghana.svg/720px-Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Republic_of_Ghana.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/8/8a/Ghanaians_Montage.jpg/800px-Ghanaians_Montage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Montage of Ghanaians.'''<BR/>. Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Kent_wove.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kente cloth weaving.'''<BR/>.Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f4/Sidy_en_vert.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Football in Ghana.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6639984473_237b932f7a_b.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Fishing village on the Cape Coast'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Kent_wove.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kente cloth weaving.'''<BR/>.Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Forests_and_Woodlands%2C_Ashanti_region%2C_South_Ghana.jpg/800px-Forests_and_Woodlands%2C_Ashanti_region%2C_South_Ghana.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Forest and woodlands in the Ashanti region, South Ghana.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Forests_and_Woodlands%2C_Ashanti_region%2C_South_Ghana.jpg/800px-Forests_and_Woodlands%2C_Ashanti_region%2C_South_Ghana.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Forest and woodlands in the Ashanti region.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/39/Kumasi_Street_and_Taxicabs_%E2%80%93_Panorama.jpg/800px-Kumasi_Street_and_Taxicabs_%E2%80%93_Panorama.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Panoramic photo of Kumasi Street with taxicabs.'''<BR/> Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/39/Kumasi_Street_and_Taxicabs_%E2%80%93_Panorama.jpg/800px-Kumasi_Street_and_Taxicabs_%E2%80%93_Panorama.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Panoramic photo of Kumasi Street with taxicabs.'''<BR/> Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Mountains_of_Volta_region.jpg/800px-Mountains_of_Volta_region.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Mountains of the Volta region in Ghana.'''<BR/> Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Mountains_of_Volta_region.jpg/800px-Mountains_of_Volta_region.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Mountains of the Volta region.'''<BR/> Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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=Ghana Adoption Alert=
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{{#eimage:http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5089/5374405455_2f51f77d22_b.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Woman and her baby.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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<span style="color:red">'''Alert: Guidance on Processing of Emergency [[Adoption]] Cases during Ghana’s Suspension (October 15, 2013)'''
 
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On April 30, 2013, the Government of Ghana suspended processing of all [[adoption]] cases, including intercountry adoptions, pending Ghana’s review of its current [[adoption]] procedures.  This alert provides additional information on how the Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare (DSW) is implementing the suspension and how the suspension impacts processing of related Forms [[I-600]], Petition to Classify [[Orphan]] as an Immediate Relative.  
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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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''Cases Subject to the Suspension''
 
  
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All [[adoption]] cases that received final approval by the Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare (DSW) or were filed with a court before April 30, 2013, are not subject to this suspension.  For cases filed with a court on or after April 30, 2013, only emergency cases may proceed to final [[adoption]] in Ghana.  Emergency cases include children who have [[Special Needs|special needs]] or medical conditions, children who could “age out” of [[adoption]] eligibility, and children adopted by biological relatives.  These emergency cases must be submitted to the Acting Director of DSW for approval before being submitted to a Ghanaian court.
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=About Ghana=
  
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Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, [[Ghana]] in 1957 became the first sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. [[Ghana]] endured a long series of coups before Lt. Jerry RAWLINGS took power in 1981 and banned political parties. After approving a new constitution and restoring multiparty politics in 1992, RAWLINGS won presidential elections in 1992 and 1996 but was constitutionally prevented from running for a third term in 2000. John KUFUOR succeeded him and was reelected in 2004. John Atta MILLS won the 2008 presidential election and took over as head of state, but he died in July 2012 and was constitutionally succeeded by his vice president John Dramani MAHAMA, who subsequently won the December 2012 presidential election.
  
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We strongly encourage prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] not to proceed with an [[adoption]] in Ghana unless you meet the suspension exceptions described above.  If you wish to pursue an [[adoption]] in another country due to the suspension, please see the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more information at www.uscis.gov/adoption.
 
  
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=Ghana Adoption Alert=
  
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''Guidance Regarding Form [[I-600]] Petition Processing''
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There have been multiple [[adoption]] alerts for [[Ghana]].  To learn more about these please read the [[Ghana Adoption Alert]] page.
  
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When filing any Form [[I-600]] petition, U.S. prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must establish that the [[adoption]] or grant of [[custody]] took place in accordance with the law of the child’s country.  For all Form [[I-600]] petitions filed on behalf of a child from Ghana USCIS and the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Accra require evidence that the Minister or Acting Director of DSW has approved the [[adoption]] case filed with the court after April 30 to ensure it was completed in accordance with the regulated exceptions to the suspension.  In an effort to efficiently process these cases, USCIS Accra will continue to contact the DSW directly for petitions filed in Accra, when necessary, to confirm whether the case was approved by DSW.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may also choose to obtain this evidence directly from DSW and submit it with their Form [[I-600]] petition.  The address for the Acting Director of the Department of Social Welfare is P.O. Box MB 230, Accra, Ghana. 
 
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Please note there is no fee by DSW or USCIS for confirmation that a specific case was approved by the DSW.  If prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are unable to obtain this information from the DSW, please notify USCIS Accra at uscis.accra@uscis.dhs.gov. 
 
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The Department of State and USCIS will continue providing updated information on [[adoption]].state.gov as it becomes available.  If you have any questions about this notice, please contact the Office of Children’s Issues at 1-888-407-4747 within the United States, or 202-501-4444 from outside the United States.  Email inquiries may be directed to AdoptionUSCA@state.gov.
 
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<span style="color:red">'''Alert: All [[Adoption]] Cases with the Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare are Subject to Suspension (May 20, 2013)'''
 
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The Government of Ghana has temporarily suspended processing of all [[adoption]] cases, including intercountry adoptions, pending Ghana's review of its current [[adoption]] procedures. All [[adoption]] cases which have not received final approval by the Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare are subject to this suspension.
 
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At this time, [[adoption]] cases which have completed processing with the Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare, and are either before a Ghanaian court or have a completed [[adoption]] order, are unaffected by the suspension.  Urgent or emergency cases subject to the suspension can be referred directly to the Ghanaian Director of Social Welfare in Accra for consideration.  The U.S. Embassy will continue accepting [[orphan]] petitions and approving qualified visa applications of those cases not subject to the suspension.
 
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The Department of State will continue providing updated information on [[adoption]].state.gov as it becomes available. If you have any questions about this notice, please contact the Office of Children's Issues at 1-888-407-4747 within the United States, or 202-501-4444 from outside the United States. Email inquiries may be directed to AdoptionUSCA@state.gov.
 
  
 
=Hague Convention Information=
 
=Hague Convention Information=
  
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Ghana 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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[[Ghana]] 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]).  For more information please read about [[Ghana and the Hague Convention]].
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The Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare has the sole legal authority to process adoptions in Ghana.  The Department of Social Welfare Head Office has oversight authority for all adoptions throughout Ghana.  Adoptions should be processed in the region of origin of the child.  Except under special circumstances, children should not be transported to another region for the purpose of processing an [[adoption]]. There are no government fees for [[adoption]] in Ghana; however, [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] pay for services rendered, such as court filing fees, the cost of obtaining official forms and reports, and legal fees, etc.
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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
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To bring an adopted child to the United States from Ghana, 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.
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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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 Ghana:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet numerousrequirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from [[Ghana]].  To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Ghana]].
  
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==Residency==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be resident in Ghana for a minimum of three months prior to the [[adoption]] of a child.  The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may request a waiver of the residency requirement through the court.  The courts may approve a waiver of the residency requirement with the recommendation of the Ministry of Social Welfare if it finds that to do so is in the best interests of the child.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Adopting parents must be 25 years of age and at least 21 years older than the child.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Generally, only married couples may adopt in Ghana.  A single person may adopt only if that person is a citizen of Ghana.  Single males may not adopt unless the child to be adopted is his child or the courts determine that special circumstances apply.  Same-sex couples may not adopt from Ghana. 
 
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==Income==
 
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Applicants must be gainfully employed.
 
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==Other==
 
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The Department of Social Welfare in Ghana requires that applicants must be of sound mind and must undergo a medical exam as part of the pre-approval process.  Applicants must also prove their ability to care for a child that may be socially and culturally different from themselves and who may have experienced trauma due to family deaths, [[institutionalization]], [[neglect]], etc.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Ghana 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, [[Ghana]] has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Ghana]].
  
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The Department of Social Welfare determines whether or not a child is eligible for [[adoption]] under Ghanaian law.  For a child to be eligible, he or she must meet at least one of the below criteria:
 
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::::1. There is no known family for the child,
 
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::::2. No family is available or capable of taking care of the child,
 
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::::3. The child’s family is unwilling to take care of the child, or
 
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::::4. The courts have terminated [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] for reasons of [[abuse]] or [[neglect]].
 
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In cases where the family is unwilling or incapable of caring for the child, parents must relinquish their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] under the Ghanaian legal [[system]].  In cases where the family of the child is unknown, reasonable efforts must be made to locate the family for a period of at least three months.  If the family remains unknown after three months, the Department of Social Welfare may determine that the child is eligible for [[adoption]].
 
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'''NOTE:''' In Ghana, birth parents who relinquish or abandon their child(ren) may change their mind at any point in the [[adoption]] process prior to the final [[adoption]] order, and in such cases it is possible that the Department of Social Welfare and the Ghanaian court will reverse their adoptability finding and/or adoptive placement decisions.
 
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'''[[Relinquishment]]:''' The Department of Social Welfare determines the validity of a [[relinquishment]].  The [[relinquishment]] of [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] means the parent(s) decide they do not want to or cannot take care of the child and have decided to let the Department of Social Welfare find other parent(s).  Whatever the reason, they are taken through a series of counseling sessions to ensure they understand the implications of the decision.  If the birth parents decide to continue with the [[relinquishment]], they must execute an [[affidavit]] providing consent for their decision to have the child adopted.  In some cases a pregnant mother will notify the Department of Social Welfare of an unwanted pregnancy and ask to give the child up for [[adoption]] after delivery.  These mothers have the right to change their minds after they give birth, but if they decide to relinquish the child, they are also required to give formal consent before a notary public. 
 
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'''[[Abandonment]]:''' In the Ghana, legal [[abandonment]] means the parent(s) voluntarily leaves the child and does not return.
 
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'''Age of Adoptive Child:''' In Ghana, a child is adoptable until he or she becomes an adult at 18 years of age. 
 
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'''Sibling Adoptions:''' The Department of Social Welfare makes every effort to ensure siblings are adopted together.  It discourages splitting siblings for [[adoption]], except under special circumstances.
 
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'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:''' The Department of Social Welfare determines whether children with [[Special Needs|special needs]] or medical issues are available for [[adoption]].  In these cases, it may be easier to waive the three-month trial period, particularly if there is a need for immediate medical attention.
 
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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 Ghana, as in many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an [[orphanage]] or a 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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'''Ghanian [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
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Department of Social Welfare 
 
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==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Ghana generally includes the following steps:  
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The process for adopting a child from [[Ghana]] 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 (or gain [[custody]] of) the child in Ghana
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# [[Adopt]] (or gain [[custody]] of) the child in [[Ghana]]
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for [[orphan]] status
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for [[orphan]] status
 
# Bringing Your Child Home  
 
# Bringing Your Child Home  
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Ghana]].
  
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'''1.Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
 
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The recommended first step in adopting a child from Ghana is to decide whether or not to use a licensed [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php 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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Until recently, the Government of Ghana did not authorize foreign [[adoption]] service providers.  Only the Department of Social Welfare, under the Ministry of Employment and Social Welfare, was authorized to provide [[adoption]] services in Ghana.  The Department of Social Welfare has recently begun to approve [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] to assist in preparing adoptive families for [[adoption]].  Currently, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are not required to adopt through an [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]].
 
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To begin the [[adoption]] process, either the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] or the designated agency should contact the Department of Social Welfare to purchase [[adoption]] application forms.  These forms may be purchased from the Director of Social Welfare at any regional Social Welfare office for GHC 50.
 
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'''2.Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt:'''
 
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In order to adopt a child from Ghana, you will need to meet the requirements of Ghanaian law and U.S. immigration law.  You must submit an application to be found eligible to adopt with the Department of Social Welfare of Ghana.
 
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Applicants purchase the [[adoption]] application form from the Director of Social Welfare at any regional Social Welfare office for GHC 50 and submit the completed application, along with the attachments specified, to the Regional Director of Social Welfare in the region where the adoptive child lives.
 
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For domestic adoptions, a Social Welfare Officer visits the applicant's home and conducts a series of interviews to compile a report on the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].  The Social Welfare Officer then submits the report to an [[Adoption Placement]] Committee within the Department of Social Welfare.  For intercountry adoptions, the report submitted to the [[Adoption Placement]] Committee is a [[Home Study|home study]] report prepared by an authorized agency in the country of residence of the applicants.
 
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The [[Adoption Placement]] Committee then reviews the application and [[Home Study|home study]] documentation to determine whether the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] meet eligibility requirements.  The review process can take three months or more.  To meet U.S. immigration requirements, you may also file an [[I-600A]], Application for [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600a 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 Department of Social Welfare in Ghana 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 Ghana’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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'''4.Adopt or Gain [[Legal Custody]] of Child in Ghana:'''
 
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Ghana generally includes the following:
 
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*'''Role of [[Adoption]] Authority:''' The Ghanaian Department of Social Welfare has the sole legal authority to process adoptions in Ghana.  The Department of Social Welfare Head Office has oversight authority for all adoptions throughout Ghana.
 
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*'''Role of the Court:''' According to the Ghanaian Children’s Act 560 (1998), an application for an [[adoption]] order may be made to the High Court, Circuit Court or to any Family Tribunal which has [[jurisdiction]] where the applicant or the child resides at the date of the application.
 
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*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:''' Until recently, [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] did not operate in Ghana.  In 2012, however, the government of Ghana began a pilot program of authorizing some [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] to help facilitate intercountry adoptions.  Any [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] must to be approved by the Department of Social Welfare before working in Ghana.  Currently, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are not required to go through an [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]].
 
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*'''Time Frame:''' It generally takes about one year to complete an [[adoption]] in Ghana.  The U.S. immigration petition and visa process may require an additional one to six months for USCIS and/or the U.S. Embassy in Ghana to conduct investigations in individual [[adoption]] cases in Ghana.
 
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*'''[[Adoption]] Fees:''' Fees for [[adoption]] in Ghana vary depending on the circumstances.  Attorney’s fees usually range from GHC 2,000 to GHC 3,000 and they generally include court costs.  Passport fees range from GHC 50 to GHC 200, depending on the age and background of the applicant.
 
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*'''Documents Required:''' In general, the documents required are the same as for an [[adoption]] in the United States, including birth, marriage, and divorce records, medical examination and clearance, and evidence of financial stability and gainful employment. '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested.
 
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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, [ [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations/judicial/authentication-of-documents/office-of-authentications.html 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 Ghana, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must approve an immigrant visa petition for your child.  You will need to file and obtain approval of 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 Ghana, 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.  If your adopted child does not already have a birth certificate, you can obtain one through Ghana’s Births and Deaths Registry.  You can do this by visiting the Central Registry Office, which is located in Accra at the Ministries Annex near MDPI (Old Passport Office), or any District Registration Office.
 
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::2. Ghanian 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 Ghana.  To obtain a Ghanaian passport for your adopted child, fill out a Ghana passport application and follow the procedures outlined by the Ghana Immigration Service.  For detailed instructions, see [http://www.ghanaimmigration.org/acquisi_info.htm here].
 
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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 and your Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative] has been approved, you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Ghana.  This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you.  At your scheduled immigrant visa interview, a Consular Officer will review your child’s eligibility for a U.S. visa.  As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the Panel Physician’s medical report on the child and the Consular Officer must determine that your child meets the definition of an [[orphan]] under U.S. immigration law.  You can find instructions for applying for an immigrant visa on the [http://ghana.usembassy.gov/visas/adoption.html U.S. Embassy in Accra’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 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. 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'''
  
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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.
+
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. To learn more about this process please read [[Traveling Abroad in Ghana]].
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'''Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Ghana'''
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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 Ghana, 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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+
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+
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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 Ghana 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=
  
−
Ghana has no post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements.
+
[[Ghana]] has no post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements.
  
 
'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
 
'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
  
−
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.   
  
 
Here are some places to start your support group search:
 
Here are some places to start your support group search:
Line 263: Line 93:
  
  
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Ghana'''
+
'''U.S. Embassy in [[Ghana]]'''
  
 
The Consular Section is located in the Embassy at:  
 
The Consular Section is located in the Embassy at:  
Line 273: Line 103:
 
Fax: (233) (21) 741-389
 
Fax: (233) (21) 741-389
 
E-mail: consulateaccra@state.gov or AccraAdoption@state.gov  
 
E-mail: consulateaccra@state.gov or AccraAdoption@state.gov  
−
Internet: [ghana.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy Ghana]
+
Internet: [[[ghana]].usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy [[Ghana]]]
  
  
−
'''Ghana’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
+
'''[[Ghana]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
The Department of Social Welfare  
 
The Department of Social Welfare  
 
Client Services Unit  
 
Client Services Unit  
 
P.O. Box M230  
 
P.O. Box M230  
−
Accra, Ghana  
+
Accra, [[Ghana]]
 
Tel: 233-21-662-857  
 
Tel: 233-21-662-857  
  
  
−
'''Embassy of Ghana'''
+
'''Embassy of [[Ghana]]'''
  
−
3512 International Drive, N.W.
+
3512 [[International]] Drive, N.W.
 
[[Washington]], D.C. 20008
 
[[Washington]], D.C. 20008
 
Tel: 202-686-4520
 
Tel: 202-686-4520
 
Email: Consular@ghanaembassy.org  
 
Email: Consular@ghanaembassy.org  
−
Internet: [ghanaembassy.org Embassy of Ghana]
+
Internet: [ghanaembassy.org Embassy of [[Ghana]]]
  
  
−
Ghana also has a consulate in Houston, TX and consular services are available at the Ghana Permanent Mission to the United Nations in [[New York]], NY.
+
[[Ghana]] also has a consulate in Houston, TX and consular services are available at the [[Ghana]] Permanent Mission to the United Nations in [[New York]], NY.
  
  
Line 325: Line 155:
 
==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=ghana]
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=ghana
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 04:38, 19 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

The official Coat of Arms.
. Source: Wikipedia.org.

Kente cloth weaving.
.Source: Wikipedia.org.

Fishing village on the Cape Coast
Source: flickr.com.

Forest and woodlands in the Ashanti region.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Panoramic photo of Kumasi Street with taxicabs.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Mountains of the Volta region.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Woman and her baby.
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 Ghana

Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, Ghana in 1957 became the first sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. Ghana endured a long series of coups before Lt. Jerry RAWLINGS took power in 1981 and banned political parties. After approving a new constitution and restoring multiparty politics in 1992, RAWLINGS won presidential elections in 1992 and 1996 but was constitutionally prevented from running for a third term in 2000. John KUFUOR succeeded him and was reelected in 2004. John Atta MILLS won the 2008 presidential election and took over as head of state, but he died in July 2012 and was constitutionally succeeded by his vice president John Dramani MAHAMA, who subsequently won the December 2012 presidential election.


Ghana Adoption Alert

There have been multiple adoption alerts for Ghana. To learn more about these please read the Ghana Adoption Alert page.


Hague Convention Information

Ghana is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(Hague Adoption Convention). For more information please read about Ghana and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet numerousrequirements in order to adopt a child from Ghana. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Ghana.


Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

The Process

The process for adopting a child from Ghana 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 (or gain custody of) the child in Ghana
  5. Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
  6. Bringing Your Child Home

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


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 about this process please read Traveling Abroad in Ghana.


After Adoption

Ghana has no post-adoption reporting requirements.

Post-Adoption Resources

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:


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 Ghana

The Consular Section is located in the Embassy at: 24 Fourth Circular Road. Cantonments, Accra Tel: (233) (21) 741-000 Fax: (233) (21) 741-389 E-mail: consulateaccra@state.gov or AccraAdoption@state.gov Internet: [[[ghana]].usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy Ghana]


Ghana’s Adoption Authority

The Department of Social Welfare Client Services Unit P.O. Box M230 Accra, Ghana Tel: 233-21-662-857


Embassy of Ghana

3512 International Drive, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: 202-686-4520 Email: Consular@ghanaembassy.org Internet: [ghanaembassy.org Embassy of Ghana]


Ghana also has a consulate in Houston, TX and consular services are available at the Ghana Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York, NY.


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 Email: AskCI@state.gov Internet: 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


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=ghana