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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Morocco"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/mo-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/mo-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/mo-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/mo-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/mo_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/mo_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/Kasbahs_in_A%C3%AFt_Benhaddou.JPG/800px-Kasbahs_in_A%C3%AFt_Benhaddou.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2a/Kasbahs_in_A%C3%AFt_Benhaddou.JPG/800px-Kasbahs_in_A%C3%AFt_Benhaddou.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c8/Royal_Palace%2C_Rabat.jpg/800px-Royal_Palace%2C_Rabat.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Royal Palace, Rabat, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c8/Royal_Palace%2C_Rabat.jpg/800px-Royal_Palace%2C_Rabat.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Royal Palace, Rabat.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5096/5429125249_830e4eec6d.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Sale, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5096/5429125249_830e4eec6d.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Sale..'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4093/5432398030_ef705b1dcd.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Rabat, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/Maroc_%2C_dune_de_Chegaga.JPG/800px-Maroc_%2C_dune_de_Chegaga.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Moroccan Sahara.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/Maroc_%2C_dune_de_Chegaga.JPG/800px-Maroc_%2C_dune_de_Chegaga.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Moroccan Sahara.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2786/4260760150_13a60f6133.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A Moroccan girl.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2786/4260760150_13a60f6133.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A Moroccan girl.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ef/Casablanca_DSC1053EC.jpg/800px-Casablanca_DSC1053EC.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Hassan II Mosque.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4018/4715422586_30891a4262.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in an alleyway in Fes.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f8/Vue_medina_fes.jpg/800px-Vue_medina_fes.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''View of the Medina in Fes, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/mo/images/MO_002.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A large leather tannery in Fes.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4018/4715422586_30891a4262.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in an alleyway in Fes, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/mo/images/MO_002.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A large leather tannery in Fes, Morocco.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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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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=Morocco Adoption Alert=
 
  
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<span style="color:red">'''Notice: Ministry of Justice Provides Prosecutors New Instructions on Kafala Guardianship Decrees (November 6, 2012)'''
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=About Morocco=
  
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On September 21, 2012, Justice Minister El Mostapha Ramid published a notice instructing Moroccan Prosecutors to formally oppose a petition filed with a juvenile judge seeking the granting of Kafala guardianship decrees to prospective adoptive foreign parents who are not resident in Morocco. In his notice, he asks the Prosecutors to emphasize the importance of in-country residency for the Kafala guardianship with the court judges, verify whether the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] reside in Morocco, and request that judges not issue Kafala orders to foreign prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] (PAPs) who are not residing in Morocco.  The notice states that it is difficult for the courts to ensure that conditions of the Kafala guardianship are met when the child is taken abroad by foreign parents and notes it needs to be possible for courts to cancel the guardianship in cases of failure to comply. The Minister’s notice appears to indicate that Kafala guardianship should only be granted to Muslim families who are long-term residents in Morocco.
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In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, a series of Moroccan Muslim dynasties began to rule in [[Morocco]]. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad al-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. The Alaouite Dynasty, to which the current Moroccan royal family belongs, dates from the 17th century. In 1860, [[Spain]] occupied northern [[Morocco]] and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw [[Morocco]]'s sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with [[France]] ended successfully in 1956. To learn more please read [[About Morocco]].
  
  
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The notice states that its purpose is to ensure the implementation of the existing law.  It does not contain any provisions addressing already pending Kafala guardianship petitions.  At this time, it is unclear whether prosecutors will formally oppose petitions for Kafala guardianship decrees filed by U.S. citizens which were already pending with the Court at the time the notice was issued. 
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=Morocco Adoption Alert=
  
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There have been multiple [[adoption]] alerts for [[Morocco]]. To learn more please read the [[Morocco Adoption Alert]] page.
  
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U.S. citizens wishing to obtain Kafala guardianship of Moroccan children should be aware that the Prosecutors are now obligated to confirm the prospective parents’ Moroccan residency and the courts are requested to deny Kafala orders to foreign PAPs who do not reside in Morocco.  Please continue to monitor [[adoption]].state.gov for updated information.
 
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<span style="color:red">'''Notice: Ministry of Justice Plans to Review Kafala Laws and Procedures (August 8, 2012)'''
 
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On July 25, the Moroccan newspaper Akhbar al-Youm (Today's News) published a story on Justice Minister Mostafa Rahmid's views on the granting of kafala (guardianship) to non-Muslim, non-resident foreigners. The article quotes Minister Rahmid as saying that he has decided to "stop granting guardianship of Moroccan children to foreign families", insisting that "guardianship of abandoned children is for Muslims, and foreign Muslims residing in Morocco." The Minister subsequently stated that kafala guardianship would only be considered for those foreign families who are long-term residents in Morocco.
 
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The status of pending kafala petitions by U.S. citizens is unclear.
 
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U.S. citizens wishing to obtain kafala of Moroccan children should be aware that is unclear at this time whether the courts will accept new kafala petitions.
 
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Please continue to monitor [[adoption]].state.gov for updated information.
 
  
 
=Hague Convention Information=
 
=Hague Convention Information=
  
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Morocco 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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[[Morocco]] 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 please read about [[Morocco and the Hague Convention]].
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'''IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR [[Adoptive Parents|ADOPTIVE PARENTS]]:''' Although this website uses the term "[[adoption]]" throughout, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] considering adopting a Moroccan child should be aware that Moroccan law and process provide for a [[custody]]/guardianship certificate issued for the purpose of the child’s immigration and [[adoption]].  In Morocco, this guardianship is referred to as "Kafala" and is awarded by a Moroccan court.  Under these circumstances, an eligible child will be issued a category IR-4 immigrant visa, and will need to fulfill certain requirements, including the child’s [[adoption]] after arrival in the United States, before the child may acquire U.S. citizenship under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
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To bring a [[guardian]] child to the United States for [[adoption]] from Morocco, 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 [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php who can adopt] under U.S. immigration law.
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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-4 immigrant visa.
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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==Residency==
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There are multiple guidelines for [[Who Can Adopt from Morocco|who can adopt from Morocco]]. To learn more about these guidelines please read [[Who Can Adopt from Morocco]].
  
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Although residency is not a legal requirement under the Kafala law (an argument some courts used in approving Kafalas), a 2012 Ministry of Justice circular ordered prosecutors to request evidence of residency when processing guardianship requests.  Evidence of residency may be required at any stage of the Kafala proceedings, and may differ from city to city and court to court.  For example, a prosecutor may require it before sending the case to court, or a court may seek proof before considering the case. It is recommended that prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] consult with an attorney in Morocco about residency requirements. 
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be at least 25 years of age.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must either be a single female or a married couple.  Morocco does not recognize same sex marriages or domestic partnerships.
 
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==Income==
 
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The Government of Morocco requires that people seeking legal guardianship of Moroccan children be employed.
 
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==Other==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] of Moroccan children must be Muslim.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must have a letter from a doctor practicing in Morocco indicating that they are in good mental and physical heath and capable of caring for an [[adopted]] child.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Morocco has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for Kafala guardianship:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, [[Morocco]] has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for Kafala [[guardianship]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Morocco]].
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'''[[Relinquishment]]:''' Yes, but only by unwed mothers.
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'''[[Abandonment]]:''' Yes.
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'''Age of Adoptive Child:''' 0 to 16 years.
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'''Sibling Adoptions:''' Allowed, but not required.
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'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:''' Qualifying prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may obtain guardianship of children with [[Special Needs|special needs]].
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'''Waiting Period or [[Foster Care]]:''' Not imposed by law, but in practical terms, a child is not available for Kafala guardianship until a court of competent [[jurisdiction]] declares the child abandoned, which may take up to several months.
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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==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Morocco’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Morocco]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 
    
 
    
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Ministry of Justice (Le Ministère de la Justice et des Libertés, Place el Mamounia, Rabat, Morocco)  
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Ministry of Justice (Le Ministère de la Justice et des Libertés, Place el Mamounia, Rabat, [[Morocco]])  
  
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Morocco generally includes the following steps:
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The process for adopting a child from [[Morocco]] generally includes the following steps:
  
  
 
# Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]
 
# Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]
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# Apply to be found eligible to obtain legal guardianship
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# Apply to be found eligible to obtain legal [[guardianship]]
 
# Be matched with a child
 
# Be matched with a child
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# Obtain legal and physical [[custody]] of the child in Morocco
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# Obtain legal and physical [[custody]] of the child in [[Morocco]]
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for [[orphan]] status
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for [[orphan]] status
 
# Bring your child home
 
# Bring your child home
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Morocco]].
  
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'''1. Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]'''
 
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The recommended first step in adopting a child from Morocco is to decide whether or not to use a licensed [[Adoption Service Provider|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 [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php selecting an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]] on its website.
 
  
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=Traveling Abroad=
  
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'''2. Be Matched with a Child'''
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
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In order to [[adopt]] a child from Morocco, you will need to meet the requirements of the Government of Morocco and U.S. immigration law. You must submit an application with the Moroccan Ministry of Justice to be found eligible to obtain Kafala guardianship in Morocco.  More information can be found at the Ministry’s website at: www.justice.gov.ma.  The website is currently available in Arabic only.
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Morocco]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  Getting or renewing a passport is easy. To learn more please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Morocco]].
  
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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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=After Adoption=
  
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child'''
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'''Post-Placement Reporting Requirements'''
 
   
 
   
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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 Morocco will provide you with a referral.  Each family must decide for itself whether it will be able to meet the needs of and provide a permanent home for a particular child.
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Although [[Morocco]] does not generally have post-placement reporting requirements, an individual Kafala court may impose certain post placement obligations on the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in the Kafala order.  If this is the case, we strongly urge you to comply with those obligations in a timely manner.  Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s positive experiences with U.S. citizen parents.
  
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'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
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The child must be eligible for guardianship according to Morocco’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. Obtain Legal and Physical [[Custody]] of the Child in Morocco'''
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The process for obtaining legal and physical [[custody]] of the child in Morocco generally includes the following:
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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.
  
  
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*'''Role of [[Adoption]] Authority:''' The Ministry of Justice is the decision making authority in [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]/guardianship cases. 
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Here are some places to start your support group search:
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*'''Role of the Court:''' Reviews applications and grants or denies Kafala guardianship.  If Kafala guardianship is granted, the court issues all related documents such as enforcement of a Kafala order, an authorization to apply for a child’s passport, and an authorization to take the child outside of Morocco to reside with the child in a foreign country.
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*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:''' There are no [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] that currently operate in Morocco. 
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*'''Time Frame:''' The process can take from three months to two years.
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*'''[[Adoption]] Fees:''' There is no [[adoption]] fee per se.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] customarily make donations to orphanages to benefit other children who are not [[adopted]].  Since these are donations, they may be given at any stage but are typically given at the end of the Kafala process.  They range from $500 to a few thousand U.S. dollars.  Some orphanages, at no charge, help the PAPs with paperwork and through the Kafala process, and the donation amount may reflect the role the [[orphanage]] played in helping the PAPs through the process.  PAPs may also need to engage local legal counsel, or spend a significant amount of time in Morocco. 
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*'''Documents Required:''' Valid [[Home Study|home study]] and other documents as required by a Kafala court. '''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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[https://www.childwelfare.gov/ Child Welfare Information Gateway]  
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After you gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] in Morocco, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must determine whether the child meets the 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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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
  
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'''6. Bring Your Child Home'''
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[http://www.adoptionservices.org/adoption_support_groups_family/index.htm Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons]
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Once 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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'''NOTE:'''  Inclusion of non-U.S. government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
  
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If you have obtained a Kafala guardianship certificate in Morocco for the purpose of adopting your child in the United States, you will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
 
  
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'''How to obtain a new birth certificate for the child in Morocco'''
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=Contact Information=
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*A court issued [[abandonment]] order is required to apply for the child’s local birth certificate at a local administrative office. 
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'''How to obtain a Passport for your child in Morocco'''
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'''U.S. Consulate General'''
  
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*Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Morocco. Once the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] receive a court-issued [[abandonment]] order, and obtain an authorization to apply for the child’s Moroccan passport, they may apply for the child’s passport at a local administrative office. Obtaining a passport takes anywhere from two days to two weeks.
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8, Boulevard Moulay Youssef, Casablanca
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Tel: +212 (0) 522-264-550
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Fax: +212 (0) 522-204-127
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Email: ivcasablanca@state.gov
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Internet: [http://morocco.usembassy.gov/casablanca.html U.S. Consulate General]
  
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::2. U.S. Immigrant Visa
 
  
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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. Consulate General in Casablanca.  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. 
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'''[[Morocco]] ’s Kafala [[Guardianship]] Authority:'''
  
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You can find instructions for applying for an immigrant visa on the U.S. Consulate Casablanca’s [http://morocco.usembassy.gov/visas.html website]. If you have questions about the process or documents needed, please contact the Consulate via email at ivcasablanca@state.gov. 
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Ministry of Justice
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Le Ministère de la Justice et des Libertés
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Place el Mamounia, Rabat, [[Morocco]]
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Tel: +212 (0) 537-732-941 to 946
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Fax: +212 (0) 537-734-725
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Internet: [http://justice.gov.ma Ministery of Justice] (currently, in Arabic only)
  
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Visa issuance after the final interview generally takes 24 hours.  It is not possible to provide the visa to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] on the same day as the immigrant visa interview.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should verify current processing times with the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca before making final travel arrangements. 
 
  
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'''Embassy of [[Morocco]] in the United States of America'''
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1601 21st Street, NW [[Washington]], DC 20009
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Tel: 202-462-7979
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Fax: 202-265-0161
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Internet: [http://embassyofmorocco.us/ Embassy of Morocco]
  
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
  
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[[Morocco]] also has a consulate located in [[New York]] City at the following address:
  
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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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10 East 40th Street,
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[[New York]], NY 10016
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(212) 758-2625
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Internet: [http://moroccanconsulate.com/ Moroccan Consulate NY]
  
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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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'''Office of Children’s Issues'''
  
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'''''Please be aware that since your child does 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.'''''
+
CA/OCS/CI
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SA-17, 9th Floor
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[[Washington]], D.C.  20522-1709
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Tel: 1-888-407-4747
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Email: AskCI@state.gov
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Internet: [http://adoption.state.gov Office of Children's Issues]
  
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Read more about the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations/us-citizenship-laws-policies/child-citizenship-act.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000].
 
  
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=Traveling Abroad=
+
'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
  
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
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For questions about immigration procedures:
 +
USCIS National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
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Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
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Internet: [http://uscis.gov USCIS]
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Morocco. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The [https://pptform.state.gov/ Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
 
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'''Obtaining Your Visa'''
 
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In addition to a U.S. passport, you also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are attached to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation.  To find information about obtaining a visa for Morocco, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
 
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'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
 
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Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.  The Department of State provides [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information] for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
 
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'''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
 
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When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Morocco, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
 
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=After Adoption=
 
  
 +
For questions about filing a Form [[I-600A]] or [[I-600]] petition:
 +
USCIS National Benefits Center
 +
Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
 +
Email: NBC.Adoptions@uscis.dhs.gov
  
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
−
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=morocco
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 05:37, 19 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

The Kasbah of Aït Benhaddou.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Royal Palace, Rabat.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Children in Sale..
Source: flickr.com.

The Moroccan Sahara.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A Moroccan girl.
Source: flickr.com.

Children in an alleyway in Fes.
Source: flickr.com.

A large leather tannery in Fes.
Source: cia.gov.


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 Morocco

In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, a series of Moroccan Muslim dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad al-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. The Alaouite Dynasty, to which the current Moroccan royal family belongs, dates from the 17th century. In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956. To learn more please read About Morocco.


Morocco Adoption Alert

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


Hague Convention Information

Morocco 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 please read about Morocco and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

There are multiple guidelines for who can adopt from Morocco. To learn more about these guidelines please read Who Can Adopt from Morocco.


Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Morocco’s Adoption Authority

Ministry of Justice (Le Ministère de la Justice et des Libertés, Place el Mamounia, Rabat, Morocco)


The Process

The process for adopting a child from Morocco generally includes the following steps:


  1. Choose an adoption service provider
  2. Apply to be found eligible to obtain legal guardianship
  3. Be matched with a child
  4. Obtain legal and physical custody of the child in Morocco
  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 Morocco.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Morocco. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. Getting or renewing a passport is easy. To learn more please read about Traveling Abroad in Morocco.


After Adoption

Post-Placement Reporting Requirements

Although Morocco does not generally have post-placement reporting requirements, an individual Kafala court may impose certain post placement obligations on the prospective adoptive parents in the Kafala order. If this is the case, we strongly urge you to comply with those obligations in a timely manner. Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s positive experiences with U.S. citizen parents.

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:


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. Consulate General

8, Boulevard Moulay Youssef, Casablanca Tel: +212 (0) 522-264-550 Fax: +212 (0) 522-204-127 Email: ivcasablanca@state.gov Internet: U.S. Consulate General


Morocco ’s Kafala Guardianship Authority:

Ministry of Justice Le Ministère de la Justice et des Libertés Place el Mamounia, Rabat, Morocco Tel: +212 (0) 537-732-941 to 946 Fax: +212 (0) 537-734-725 Internet: Ministery of Justice (currently, in Arabic only)


Embassy of Morocco in the United States of America

1601 21st Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 Tel: 202-462-7979 Fax: 202-265-0161 Internet: Embassy of Morocco


Morocco also has a consulate located in New York City at the following address:

10 East 40th Street, New York, NY 10016 (212) 758-2625 Internet: Moroccan Consulate NY


Office of Children’s Issues

CA/OCS/CI SA-17, 9th Floor Washington, D.C. 20522-1709 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 Email: AskCI@state.gov Internet: Office of Children's Issues


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures: USCIS 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: USCIS National Benefits Center Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local) Email: NBC.Adoptions@uscis.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=morocco