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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Turkey"

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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b4/Flag_of_Turkey.svg/800px-Flag_of_Turkey.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b4/Flag_of_Turkey.svg/800px-Flag_of_Turkey.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/tu-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/tu-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/mde/tu_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/mde/tu_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/Hagia_Sophia_Mars_2013.jpg/800px-Hagia_Sophia_Mars_2013.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Hagia Sophia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/Hagia_Sophia_Mars_2013.jpg/800px-Hagia_Sophia_Mars_2013.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Hagia Sophia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6f/AYA_Sophia2012.33.jpg/800px-AYA_Sophia2012.33.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6f/AYA_Sophia2012.33.jpg/800px-AYA_Sophia2012.33.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Sumela_Showing_Location.JPG/800px-Sumela_Showing_Location.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Sümela Monastery on the Pontic Mountains, Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Sumela_Showing_Location.JPG/800px-Sumela_Showing_Location.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Sümela Monastery on the Pontic Mountains'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5190/5677670468_11a046271d.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Istanbul, Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5190/5677670468_11a046271d.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Istanbul'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2703/4272496257_907c5282c7.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A classroom in Istanbul, Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2703/4272496257_907c5282c7.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A classroom in Istanbul'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/56/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque_Istanbul_Turkey_retouched.jpg/800px-Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque_Istanbul_Turkey_retouched.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul(The Blue Mosque), Turkey.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/56/Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque_Istanbul_Turkey_retouched.jpg/800px-Sultan_Ahmed_Mosque_Istanbul_Turkey_retouched.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul(The Blue Mosque)'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Yeni_cami.jpg/800px-Yeni_cami.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Yeni Camii (Yeni-mosque) in Istanbul from the Golden Horn.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Yeni_cami.jpg/800px-Yeni_cami.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Yeni Camii (Yeni-mosque) in Istanbul from the Golden Horn.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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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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Turkey is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Turkey and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
 
  
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=About Turkey=
  
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Turkey is not considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. Many Turkish families both within and outside Turkey are interested in adopting orphans even though there is a several-year waiting period. Turkish families are given preference in adoption of children between the ages of 0 and 6, and are able to [[adopt]] children with or without medical problems.  
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Modern [[Turkey]] was founded in 1923 from the Anatolian remnants of the defeated Ottoman Empire by national hero Mustafa KEMAL, who was later honored with the title Ataturk or "Father of the Turks." Under his leadership, the country [[adopted]] wide-ranging social, legal, and political reforms. After a period of one-party rule, an experiment with multi-party politics led to the 1950 election victory of the opposition Democratic Party and the peaceful transfer of power. To learn more please read [[About Turkey]].
  
  
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Foreign nationals generally only can [[adopt]] children who cannot be placed with Turkish families or who have [[Special Needs|special needs]]. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in rare adoption cases from Turkey, including adoptions of Turkish children by Turkish-American dual nationals, relatives in the United States, or adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Turkey.
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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[[Turkey]] is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]] (Hague [[Adoption]] Convention). Therefore all adoptions between [[Turkey]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about [[Turkey and the Hague Convention]].
  
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'''Note: Turkish law requires prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to spend a year caring for the child in Turkey prior to finalizing the adoption. Although Turkish law allows for a child to leave Turkey during the one-year probationary period, a U.S. visa cannot be issued until the probationary period is over and the adoption is final. U.S. prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be prepared to remain in Turkey for one year.'''
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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Adoption between the United States and Turkey is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Turkey, you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Read more on Who Can [[Adopt]].
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Turkey]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Turkey]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Turkey]].
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Turkey also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
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==Residency==
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Turkish law requires prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to spend a year caring for the child in Turkey prior to finalizing the adoption. Although Turkish law allows for a child to leave Turkey during the one-year probationary period, a U.S. visa cannot be issued until the probationary period is over and the adoption is final. U.S. prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be prepared to remain in Turkey for one year.
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==Age Requirements==
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The [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] must be at least 30 years of age and there must be at least an 18-year age difference between the prospective parent and child. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] must not be over the age of 40 if they wish to [[adopt]] children who are under one year old. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who are over 40 can only [[adopt]] older children. Those who reach 41 during the waiting period after submitting their application will be asked to [[adopt]] older children. Foreign nationals who do not speak Turkish and who are between the ages of 30 and 40 may only [[adopt]] children under the age of three.
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==Marriage==
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[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] may be single or married. A married couple can only [[adopt]] the child together. Unmarried couples cannot [[adopt]] a child together. Couples younger than 30 years of age must be married for at least five years to be eligible to [[adopt]]. A spouse younger than 30 years of age can [[adopt]] his/her spouse’s child only if they have been married for more than two years.  A spouse can [[adopt]] a child alone if he/she can prove that the other spouse is mentally incapacitated or his/her whereabouts is unknown for over two years or if the couple is legally separated for over two years.  Couples determined to be eligible for adoption after professional evaluation are given a priority date in accordance to their application dates with the central authority. No other prioritization is made within applications.
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==Income==
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[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] must be psychologically and biologically healthy, have a certain level of education and culture to raise a child in a safe and good environment and be financially capable of providing for the child. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] must not have been convicted of a crime of moral turpitude and cannot be users of illicit drugs. All conditions and requirements that are mentioned above are evaluated by the General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency officials.
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==Other==
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None.
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=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Turkey is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Turkey must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Turkey attempt to place a child with a family in Turkey before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Turkey's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
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Because [[Turkey]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Turkey]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that [[Turkey]] attempt to place a child with a family in [[Turkey]] before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to [[Turkey]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Turkey]].
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In Turkey, there are three categories of children who are eligible for adoption:
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# Parents give their consent in court for the adoption of their child; or
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# Social Services and Child Protection Agency qualifies the child for adoption by court order without the consent of the parents.
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Consent of the parents is not required when:
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::1. Either parents or their whereabouts are unknown.
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::2. Parents are mentally ill
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::3. Parents are incapacitated
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::4. Parents are unable to take care of the child
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When submitting a request to [[adopt]], prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may indicate from which of the two categories they would like to [[adopt]]. They may also choose to be considered for both categories. If they change their mind in the waiting process, they may submit a petition for the change.
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'''''Remember: As noted on the first page of this Country Information for Turkey, foreign nationals generally only can [[adopt]] children who cannot be placed with Turkish families or who have [[Special Needs|special needs]].'''''
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Turkey's Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Turkey]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency
 
General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency
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==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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Because Turkey is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Turkey must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
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Because [[Turkey]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Turkey]] must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention [[adoption]] process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements.
  
  
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with Turkey before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Read about Transition Cases for more information.
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with [[Turkey]] before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply to your [[adoption]]. Your [[adoption]] could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Read about Transition Cases for more information.
  
  
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# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in Turkey  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Turkey]]
 
# Bringing your Child Home  
 
# Bringing your Child Home  
  
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To learn more about this process please read about [[How to Adopt from Turkey]].
  
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
 
  
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The first step in adopting a child from Turkey is to select an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that has been accredited.  Only these agencies and attorneys can provide adoption services between the United States and Turkey.
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=Traveling Abroad=
  
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]:'''
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Turkey]]. 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 Turkey]].
  
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After you choose an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]], you apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form I-800A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Read more about Eligibility Requirements.
 
  
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=After Adoption=
  
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Once the U.S. government determines that you are “eligible” and “suitable” to [[adopt]], your agency should forward your information to the adoption authority in Turkey. Turkey’s adoption authority will evaluate your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Turkish law.
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'''What resources are available to assist families after the [[adoption]]?'''
  
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]]. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
 
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If both the United States and Turkey determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in Turkey will provide you with a referral for a child. The central authority in Turkey will provide detailed information about the child to the [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] and inform you to contact your agency to receive the information. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
 
  
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Here are some good places to start your support group search:
  
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'''4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption:'''
 
  
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After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval to [[adopt]] that particular child (Form I-800). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be [[adopted]] and enter the United States. 
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[https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_postadoption.cfm Child Welfare Information Gateway]  
  
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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
  
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After this, your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] or you will submit a visa application to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child’s information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify the Turkey’s adoption authority (Article 5 letter). For Convention Country adoptions, prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain [[custody]] for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
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[http://www.adoptionservices.org/adoption_support_groups_family/index.htm Adoption Services Support Group for Adopting Persons]
  
  
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'''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.'''''
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=Contact Information=
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Turkey]]'''
 
   
 
   
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American Embassy Ankara (only immigrant visa processing post in [[Turkey]])
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'''5. [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Turkey:'''
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110 Ataturk Blvd.
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Kavaklidere
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06100 Ankara, [[Turkey]]  
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Phone: 90-312-455 5555
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Fax: 90-312-468 6103
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Internet: [http://turkey.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy Turkey]
  
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'''''Remember: Before you [[adopt]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in Turkey, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of [[custody]] for the purposes of adoption in Turkey.'''''
 
  
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'''[[Turkey]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency
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(T.C. Basbakanlik Sosyal Hizmetler ve Cocuk Esirgeme Kurumu Genel Mudurlugu).
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Address: Anafartalar Cad. N: 70 Ulus Ankara, [[Turkey]]
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Phone: 90-312-310 2460
  
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'''The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Turkey:'''
 
  
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'''Embassy of [[Turkey]]'''
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Embassy of the Republic of [[Turkey]]
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2525 [[Massachusetts]] Ave. NW
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[[Washington]], DC 20008
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Telephone: (202) 612-6700
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Fax: (202) 612-6744
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E-mail: contact@turkishembassy.org
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Internet: [http://www.washington.emb.mfa.gov.tr/ Embassy of Turkey]
  
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In Turkey, the adoption process of both orphans under the state [[custody]] and children still living with their families given up for adoption, must go through the General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] residing in the United States who would like to [[adopt]] a child in Turkey must file their application with their local adoption authority. Once they are found eligible for adoption, the Turkish adoption authority is notified in writing by the local authority and necessary documentation is submitted.
 
  
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[[Turkey]] also has Consulates General in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and [[New York]].
  
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If the application is complete, General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency will match the parents with a child and inform them and their agency. If the prospective parents decide that the child is suitable for their family and once it is determined that the child is eligible for adoption in the US, the Turkish adoption authority should be informed in writing. Arrangements to meet the child will be made thereafter.
 
  
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'''Office of Children's Issues'''
  
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If the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) and social workers both agree, the representative from the Agency and the adopting parent(s) sign a one-year child care contract. During this period the relationship between the parents and the child should be monitored and reported to the Turkish authority. If at the end if this one year period no problems are encountered and if it is determined that the adoption will be in favor of the child, the parents are referred to court to start the legal process of adoption. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must submit the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] and the child’s updated birth certificate information to the Turkish authority once they gain the child’s [[custody]] in court.
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U.S. Department of State 
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CA/OCS/CI 
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SA-17, 9th Floor
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[[Washington]], DC 20522-1709
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Tel: 1-888-407-4747
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E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
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Internet: [http://adoption.state.gov U.S. Department of State]
  
  
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'''Private adoptions in Turkey are currently not allowed.''' All adoptions must go through the General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency. The agency currently only allows private adoptions between relatives.
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'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
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The process of immigrating [[adopted]] relatives to United States is the same. The identity documents and contact information of the prospective parents and their relative to be [[adopted]], along with their home study are submitted to the General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency. If it is determined that the child relative is suitable for adoption the prospective parents are invited to Turkey to sign the one-year child care contract.
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'''''Remember: Any referrals other than the above mentioned channels will not be accepted. The Turkish central authority will not approve any unlawful adoption attempts.'''''
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*'''ROLE OF [[Adoption Agencies|ADOPTION AGENCIES]]:''' There are no private [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] or non-governmental organizations handling adoption cases in Turkey. Adopting parents are not required to have a legal representative to process an adoption in Turkey. However, families that do not do so may face some problems with language or have difficulty navigating the Turkish adoption process. The U.S. Embassy in Ankara recommends families consider engaging a translator or an English-speaking attorney. A list of such attorneys is available on the Embassy website at http://ankara.usembassy.gov.  This list does not imply an endorsement of specific attorneys.
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For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
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*'''ROLE OF THE ADOPTION AUTHORITY:''' Once the administrative process (which can take several months) is completed, the family is contacted and invited to Turkey to meet the specified child eligible for intercountry adoption.  Required one-year probationary period: Turkish law requires prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to spend a year caring for the child in Turkey prior to finalizing the adoption. When the family is matched with a child to [[adopt]], the legal adoption procedure begins with a one-year care contract signed between the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the Director of Social Services & Child Protection in the city where the child resides. Under Turkish law, the Agency is the [[Legal Guardian|legal guardian]] of the child and remains the [[Legal Guardian|legal guardian]] until the adoption is finalized. However, the one-year contract makes the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] responsible for the child’s welfare, education and medical care for the pre-adoption year.  '''NOTE:''' In adoptions between relatives, a judge grants physical [[custody]] of a child to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] temporarily during the one-year probationary period. 
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*'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' At the end of the one-year period, adopting parents and the child are required to return to court so a Turkish judge can finalize the adoption. The General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency prepares all documents required for the court procedure. Once the judge approves the adoption, the child is then registered as the son/daughter of the adoptive family and has the same legal status as a biological child.
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*'''TIME FRAME:''' Families are normally able to finalize the adoption in Turkish court in two to three weeks once they complete the one-year probationary period. Obtaining a Turkish passport, a new birth certificate and the U.S. immigrant visa can take an average of 7-10 days after the adoption is finalized.  According to the law, the adoption procedure must be completed within certain periods of time. It can be completed on time when the U.S. [[Adoption Agency]], the General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency and the prospective family work in coordination.
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*'''ADOPTION APPLICATION:''' Foreign nationals who have permits to reside in Turkey for more than one year must make their application at the local Directorate of Social Services. Foreign nationals and Turkish-American families residing outside of Turkey not resident in Turkey should submit their applications to the authorized institutions in their respective countries. U.S. citizens not residing Turkey should submit their applications through an authorized [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] in the US. Turkish General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency can work in coordination with any [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] accredited in accordance with the Hague Adoption Convention. When submitting a request to [[adopt]], prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may indicate from which of categories of eligible children they are interested in adopting. They may also choose to be considered for both categories explained in the section called Who Can Be [[Adopted]]. If they change their mind in the waiting process, they may submit a petition for the change.
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*'''ADOPTION FEES:''' There are no Turkish government fees for adoption. Prospective adoptive families can expect to pay notary public ($20-$50 per document depending on the subject), translations ($10 per page), birth registration ($10 -$20), and the child’s Turkish passport of the child ($80-$100).
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:''' Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] applying to the General Directorate of Social Service & Child Protection Agency will receive a statement and a form from the agency to complete. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are also required to provide their birth certificates, police clearance documents, health and residency documents, financial documents and Social Security and insurance information along with documentation regarding their education. All documents not in English must be accompanied by certified Turkish translations. The translation must include a statement signed by the translator that states that the translation is accurate. The translation must also be accompanied by proof the translator is certified to translate.  '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, read more on Traveling Abroad to learn about Authenticating U.S. Documents
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'''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
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Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
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::1. Birth Certificate
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You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.  In order to learn how to obtain a Turkish birth certificate for your [[adopted]] child please visit the Turkish Ministry of Interior's [http://www.nvi.gov.tr/Hizmetler,Nufus_Cuzdani.html website].
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::2. Turkish 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 Turkey.
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In order to learn how to obtain a Turkish passport for your [[adopted]] child please visit the Turkish Passport Office's [http://www.egm.gov.tr/hizmet.pasaport.umuma.mahsus.asp website].
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Any Turkish citizen may obtain an individual passport. Passport validity varies between three months to five years upon request. Individuals are required to submit an passport application form, original birth certificate, 4 passport size photograph (4.5 x 6 cm), notarized travel consent from parents or legal representative and passport fee.
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'''NOTE:''' The one-year Turkish care contract in adoptions does not grant [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child for the purposes of emigration and adoption abroad.
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::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child.  After the adoption (or [[custody]] for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child’s I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child.  This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you.  As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the “Panel Physician’s” medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Read more about Health Consideration.
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On February 4, 2008, the U.S. Embassy Ankara’s panel physicians began using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) 2007 Tuberculosis Technical Instructions (TB TIs) for the TB medical screening for all immigrant visa applicants from Turkey, including [[adopted]] children. The 2007 TB TIs include new requirements that affect the pace at which some adoption cases can be concluded.  Please visit the CDC’s website at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dq/panel_2007.htm for further information regarding the 2007 Technical Instructions for Tuberculosis Screening and Treatment for Panel Physicians.
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'''Remember: As noted on the first page of this Country Information for Turkey, Turkish law requires prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to spend a year caring for the child in Turkey prior to finalizing the adoption. Although Turkish law allows for a child to leave Turkey during the one-year probationary period, a U.S. visa cannot be issued until the probationary period is over and the adoption is final. U.S. prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be prepared to remain in Turkey for one year.'''
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
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'''''For adoptions finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]].
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'''''Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.'''''
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Learn more about the Child Citizenship Act.
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=Traveling Abroad=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Turkey. 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 Turkey, 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 Turkey, 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=
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'''What resources are available to assist families after the [[adoption]]?'''
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]]. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
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Here are some good places to start your support group search:
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[https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_postadoption.cfm Child Welfare Information Gateway]
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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
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[http://www.adoptionservices.org/adoption_support_groups_family/index.htm Adoption Services Support Group for Adopting Persons]
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1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
  
  
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=turkey
  
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 02:58, 24 February 2018

The official flag
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

The Hagia Sophia.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Sümela Monastery on the Pontic Mountains
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Children in Istanbul
Source: flickr.com.

A classroom in Istanbul
Source: flickr.com.

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul(The Blue Mosque)
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Yeni Camii (Yeni-mosque) in Istanbul from the Golden Horn.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Istanbul's Grand Bazaar.
Source: Wikipedia.org.


Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating international adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry Universal Accreditation Act.

The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.


About Turkey

Modern Turkey was founded in 1923 from the Anatolian remnants of the defeated Ottoman Empire by national hero Mustafa KEMAL, who was later honored with the title Ataturk or "Father of the Turks." Under his leadership, the country adopted wide-ranging social, legal, and political reforms. After a period of one-party rule, an experiment with multi-party politics led to the 1950 election victory of the opposition Democratic Party and the peaceful transfer of power. To learn more please read About Turkey.


Hague Convention Information

Turkey is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore all adoptions between Turkey and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about Turkey and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Turkey is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Turkey, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Turkey.

Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Turkey's Adoption Authority

General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency (T.C. Basbakanlik Sosyal Hizmetler ve Cocuk Esirgeme Kurumu Genel Mudurlugu).


The Process

Because Turkey is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Turkey must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.


NOTE: If you filed your I-600a with Turkey before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. Read about Transition Cases for more information.


  1. Choose an Accredited Adoption Service Provider
  2. Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt
  3. Be Matched with a Child
  4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States
  5. Adopt the Child in Turkey
  6. Bringing your Child Home

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Turkey. 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 Turkey.


After Adoption

What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?

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


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


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children

Adoption Services Support Group for Adopting Persons


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Turkey

American Embassy Ankara (only immigrant visa processing post in Turkey) 110 Ataturk Blvd. Kavaklidere 06100 Ankara, Turkey Phone: 90-312-455 5555 Fax: 90-312-468 6103 Internet: U.S. Embassy Turkey


Turkey's Adoption Authority

General Directorate of Social Services and Child Protection Agency (T.C. Basbakanlik Sosyal Hizmetler ve Cocuk Esirgeme Kurumu Genel Mudurlugu). Address: Anafartalar Cad. N: 70 Ulus Ankara, Turkey Phone: 90-312-310 2460


Embassy of Turkey

Embassy of the Republic of Turkey 2525 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008 Telephone: (202) 612-6700 Fax: (202) 612-6744 E-mail: contact@turkishembassy.org Internet: Embassy of Turkey


Turkey also has Consulates General in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York.


Office of Children's Issues

U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI SA-17, 9th Floor Washington, DC 20522-1709 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 E-mail: AskCI@state.gov Internet: U.S. Department of State


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)

1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)


SOURCE

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