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| | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/gr-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/flags/large/gr-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/gr-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/gr-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/gr_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/gr_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/gr/images/GR_034.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The front of the Parthenon.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://download.shutterstock.com/gatekeeper/W3siZSI6MTM5NDYwMzM0OSwiYyI6ImRvd25sb2FkIiwicCI6InYxfDE4MzY1MDA2fDEzMDcxNTIxOSIsImsiOiJwaG90by8xMzA3MTUyMTkvaHVnZS5qcGciLCJtIjowLCJkIjoic2h1dHRlcnN0b2NrLW1lZGlhIn0sInRKRmNoaFRNY2FHTzg4SHpLZFRUS1orWjdYcyJd/shutterstock_130715219.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Odeon_of_Herodes_Atticus_2012.jpg/800px-Odeon_of_Herodes_Atticus_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Odeon of Herodes Atticus.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/gr/images/GR_034.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5238/5909931633_388aeefef4_o.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Katouni Bridge.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://download.shutterstock.com/gatekeeper/W3siZSI6MTM5NDYwMzIzNywiYyI6ImRvd25sb2FkIiwicCI6InYxfDE4MzY1MDA2fDU4MjE1MzczIiwiayI6InBob3RvLzU4MjE1MzczL2h1Z2UuanBnIiwibSI6MCwiZCI6InNodXR0ZXJzdG9jay1tZWRpYSJ9LCI5ci80c1B3ZStuRWFuZmRmMUNBQnNyS1ViSG8iXQ/shutterstock_58215373.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/gr/images/GR_030.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''View of the theater at Delphi and remains of the Temple of Apollo.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Odeon_of_Herodes_Atticus_2012.jpg/800px-Odeon_of_Herodes_Atticus_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2435/3623793906_88483a1ca3_b.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Greek temple on coast of Corfu.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://download.shutterstock.com/gatekeeper/W3siZSI6MTM5NDYwMzcyOCwiYyI6ImRvd25sb2FkIiwicCI6InYxfDE4MzY1MDA2fDE0OTEyNjMxMiIsImsiOiJwaG90by8xNDkxMjYzMTIvaHVnZS5qcGciLCJtIjowLCJkIjoic2h1dHRlcnN0b2NrLW1lZGlhIn0sIi9MMklPcTdZTEtDQlZlc0JmdjUvNXBLQlBSTSJd/shutterstock_149126312.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
| + | '''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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| − | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/ec-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
| + | 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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| − | {{#eimage:http://download.shutterstock.com/gatekeeper/W3siZSI6MTM5NDYwMzkxOSwiYyI6ImRvd25sb2FkIiwicCI6InYxfDE4MzY1MDA2fDE1NDgxNTYwOCIsImsiOiJwaG90by8xNTQ4MTU2MDgvaHVnZS5qcGciLCJtIjowLCJkIjoic2h1dHRlcnN0b2NrLW1lZGlhIn0sIm1IY3FuU2J2V3FVSTZLR0hsdDl1bnQ3VE10QSJd/shutterstock_154815608.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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| | + | =About Greece= |
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| − | =Hague Convention Information=
| + | [[Greece]] achieved independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1830. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories, most with Greek-speaking populations. To learn more, please read [[About Greece]]. |
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| − | Greece [[Adoption]] Notice: On September 2, 2009, Greece signed and ratified the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention; it will enter into force for Greece on January 1, 2010. Greece is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]] ([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]). Therefore all adoptions between Greece and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
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| | + | =Hague Convention Information= |
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| − | Greece is not a major Country of Origin for children adopted through intercountry [[adoption]]. There are many more prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in Greece than there are children eligible for [[adoption]]. Over the recent 5 years, only 3 Greek children have received [[orphan]] immigrant visas to the U.S. following their adoptions by U.S. citizen parents.
| + | [[Greece]] [[Adoption]] Notice: On September 2, 2009, [[Greece]] signed and ratified the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention; it will enter into force for [[Greece]] on January 1, 2010. [[Greece]] is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]] ([http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]). To learn more please read [[Greece and the Hague Convention]]. |
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| − | Although there are no private [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Greece, children may be adopted with the involvement of an attorney or gynecologist who will act as a facilitator. Whether a child is adopted through one of the government-run institutions and orphanages, or privately, a lawyer is required.
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| − | '''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
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| | =Who Can Adopt= | | =Who Can Adopt= |
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| − | [[Adoption]] between the United States and Greece is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to adopt from Greece, 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). Learn more. | + | [[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Greece]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Greece]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Greece]]. |
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| − | In addition to these U.S. requirements for [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Greece also has the following requirements for [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
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| − | ==Residency==
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| − | You must be a resident of Greece to adopt a child from any of the governmental institutions and orphanages in Greece which care for orphaned or abandoned infants. Exceptions for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who do not reside in Greece will be made only for children with health problems who live in Greek institutions. In the case of a private [[adoption]], no restriction applies as to the place of residence of the prospective parents.
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| − | ==Age of Adopting Parents==
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| − | You must be between the ages of 30 and 60 in order to adopt a child. At least one of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be at least 18 years older but not more than 50 years older than the adopted child. Only minors can be adopted, except in the case of step-parent [[adoption]]. Although the legal process of [[adoption]] cannot be started before the child reaches 3 months of age, in almost all cases of private [[adoption]] biological parents give the child to prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] immediately after birth.
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| − | ==Marriage==
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| − | Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may be married or single.
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| − | ==Income==
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| − | You must provide evidence of financial status.
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| − | ==Other==
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| − | There is no religious requirement to adopt a child in Greece.
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| | =Who Can Be Adopted= | | =Who Can Be Adopted= |
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| − | Because Greece is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Greece must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Greece attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Greece's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States. | + | Because [[Greece]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Greece]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For more information please read [[Who Can Be Adopted from Greece]]. |
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| − | '''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
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| − | '''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:''' The consent of biological parents and a court decision.
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| − | '''[[Abandonment]] Requirements:''' The court process replaces the consent of biological parents as necessary and facilitates procedures between the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the interested party, providing a judicial guarantee.
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| − | '''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:''' Only minors can be adopted, except in the case of step-parent [[adoption]].
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| − | '''Sibling Requirements:''' The court takes into consideration the perspectives of the children of the adopting family.
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| − | '''Requirements for [[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:''' Medical Reports are needed in addition to all other documents.
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| − | '''Waiting Period:''' Due to a limited number of children available for [[adoption]] and a large number of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], the waiting period to finalize an [[adoption]] is approximately five years for a child living in an institution. For children with health problems, the waiting period usually takes up to three years. An attorney is necessary in order to present the case in court and finalize the [[adoption]]. Court decisions concerning [[adoption]] cases usually take from 1-6 months before a final decision is made.
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| | =How to Adopt= | | =How to Adopt= |
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| | ==Adoption Authority== | | ==Adoption Authority== |
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| − | '''Greece's [[Adoption]] Authority''' | + | '''[[Greece]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority''' |
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| | '''Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity''' | | '''Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity''' |
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| | Aristotelous 17 | | Aristotelous 17 |
| − | 104 33 Athens, Greece | + | 104 33 Athens, [[Greece]] |
| | Tel. 210-5232821-9 | | Tel. 210-5232821-9 |
| | Fax 210-5234768 | | Fax 210-5234768 |
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| | ==The Process== | | ==The Process== |
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| − | Because Greece is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Greece 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. | + | Because [[Greece]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, [[adopting from Greece]] 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 Greece 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. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more]. | + | '''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with [[Greece]] 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. [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption/Adoption-Process/how-to-adopt/hague-transition-cases.html Learn more]. |
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| | # Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]] | | # Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]] |
| − | # Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt | + | # Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]] |
| | # 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 |
| − | # Adopt the Child in Greece | + | # [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Greece]] |
| | # Bringing your Child Home | | # Bringing your Child Home |
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| − | | + | To learn more please read about [[How to Adopt from Greece]]. |
| − | '''1.Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
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| − | The first step in adopting a child from Greece 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 Greece.
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| − | '''2.Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt:'''
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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). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn how]. Once the U.S. government determines that you are "eligible" and "suitable" to adopt, you or your agency will forward your information to the [[adoption]] authority in Greece. Greece's [[adoption]] authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Greece's law.
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| − | '''3.Be Matched with a Child:'''
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| − | If both the United States and Greece determine that you are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Greece may provide you with a referral for a child. 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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| − | '''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. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn how].
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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 Greece'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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| − | '''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the [[adoption]] process.'''''
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| − | '''5.Adopt the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in-country:'''
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| − | '''''Remember: Before you adopt (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in COUNTRY, 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 COUNTRY.'''''
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| − | The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Greece generally includes the following:
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| − | *'''ROLE OF THE [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] AUTHORITY:''' According to Greek Law, 2447/1996, all petitions submitted to local orphanages by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are followed by an extensive and thorough field investigation performed by the social services of the institution, which is supervised by the Greek Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity. When the investigation is over, the case file is forwarded to the local institution's committee. The local institution's committee approves or disapproves the petition of the prospective parents. This committee then matches prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] with children, taking into account the specific needs of specific children and the corresponding ability of prospective parents to meet those needs. If the child is 12 years of age and over and of sound psychological condition, the court takes the child's wishes into consideration. In addition, the court takes into consideration the perspectives of the children of the adopting family. Because of the relatively small number of adoptions in Greece, this [[matching]] process can be detailed and precise. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]]' applications are processed by the local institutions strictly in chronological order; with the exception that priority is given to persons willing to adopt a child with special physical or psychological needs. If the petition is approved, the case file is forwarded to the appropriate court for endorsement. In order for prospective parents who live abroad to initiate an [[adoption]], they must communicate with the respective office of the International Social Services in their country of residence, www.iss-ssi.org (for the Greek branch, issgr@otenet.gr). For private adoptions within Greece, the social service arm of the respective Prefecture (Nomarchy) of the area where the parents reside will conduct the field investigation. The law requires that a [[Home Study|home study]] be conducted by local social services, prior to the court hearing, so that the family and the social status of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] can be determined. There is a 15-20 day fostering period for children living in institutions.
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| − | *'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' Adoptions done privately are also legal in Greece. In case of a private [[adoption]], no restriction applies as to the place of residence of the prospective parents. There are no private [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Greece; however, children may be adopted with the involvement of an attorney or gynecologist who will act as a facilitator. A court decision must be issued following the field investigation by the relevant social service. The majority of private [[adoption]] mediators ensure that biological parents do not know the details of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], to exclude the possibility of blackmail attempt or other unlawful action. The documents that comprise the legal file submitted to the court in order to issue a final decision for the [[adoption]] are:
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| − | ::::1. Field investigation report by the Institution's social service department;
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| − | ::::2. Marriage certificate;
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| − | ::::3. Penal record;
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| − | ::::4. Family status certificate;
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| − | ::::5. Written consent of biological parent(s);
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| − | ::::6. Proof of good financial status of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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| − | ::::7. Medical examination of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] (excluding those with chronic diseases).
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| − | In the [[abandonment]] context, a court process replaces the consent of biological parents as necessary and facilitates procedures between the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the interested party. Specifically, the consent of parents for [[adoption]] of their child is replaced with a specially reasoned decision of the court if:
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| − | ::::::::1. Parents are unknown or the child is abandoned;
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| − | ::::::::2. Both parents have been denied parental responsibility or are in a situation where they have been forbidden to exercise parental control regarding their ability to consent to [[adoption]] of the child;
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| − | ::::::::3. Parents have an unknown residence;
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| − | ::::::::4. The child is protected by a recognized social organization, if he/she has been removed from the parent's [[custody]] and the parents refuse to give consent; or
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| − | ::::::::5. The child is delivered with the consent of parents to a (foster) family for care and upbringing, with the intent to adopt, and the child has been integrated into that family for at least a year, and the parents later refuse to give consent.
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| − | *'''ROLE OF [[Adoption Agencies|ADOPTION AGENCIES]]:''' There are no private [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Greece. Children may be adopted with the involvement of an attorney or gynecologist who will act as a facilitator. Whether an individual adopts a child from one of the government-run institutions and orphanages, or privately, a lawyer is required.
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| − | *'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] APPLICATION:''' An application signed by the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] is submitted to the institution.
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| − | *'''TIME FRAME:''' Due to the limited number of children available for [[adoption]], and the large number of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], the waiting period to finalize an [[adoption]] is approximately five years for a child living in an institution. An attorney is required in order to present the case to court and finalize the [[adoption]]. Court decisions concerning [[adoption]] cases usually take from 1-6 months before a final decision is issued. For children with health problems it usually takes up to three years. The timeframe for private adoptions varies.
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| − | *'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] FEES:''' In the [[adoption]] services contract that you sign at the beginning of the [[adoption]] process, your accredited U.S. agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your [[adoption]] process. There are also some fees specifically associated with adopting from Greece:
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| − | The U.S. Embassy in Athens is aware that prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will have to obtain a "revenue stamp" (Greek Government fee) before a child is released to him or her by a local institution. Court and attorney fees generally may be approximately 1,000 Euros for [[adoption]] of children living in local institutions. Fees may change. Fees and expenses may exist for private adoptions and they can be substantial.
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| − | DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: In the case of an intercountry [[adoption]], the International Social Service in Athens requires the following documents from prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in order to proceed with a field investigation:
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| − | ::::::::::1. An application to show their interest to adopt a child, notarized by the Greek police if they happen to be here in Greece, or sent through their International Social Services office from the United States;
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| − | ::::::::::2. Certified copies of birth certificates, and baptismal certificates if applicable, of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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| − | ::::::::::3. Certified copy of their marriage certificate;
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| − | ::::::::::4. Medical certificates concerning the general health condition, and separate certificates concerning the mental health of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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| − | ::::::::::5. Evidence of the financial status of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]; and
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| − | ::::::::::6. Penal records of both [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. A "penal record" is a document that Greek citizens can obtain from the appropriate area judicial authority regard to their "conviction free" background. It has been the Embassy's experience that U.S. citizens, whenever required, can submit to the Greek authorities an FBI record, which is considered to serve the same purpose.
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| − | '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html Learn how].
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| − | '''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
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| − | Now that your [[adoption]] is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for several documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
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| − | ::1. Birth Certificate
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| − | You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate .
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| − | | + | |
| − | In another provision, the court may intervene in the name of the adopted child. It may allow the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]], upon application, to [[ADD|add]] to or change the family name of the child and to [[ADD|add]] another name or delete the first (given) name that the child had before the [[adoption]], if this is in the interest of the child.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | There should be a court decision on any changes made on the name of the adopted child based on the primary birth certificate. This certificate is then presented to the Greek registry office (Lixiarhion).
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | ::2. Greek Passport
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Greece. The adopting parents can apply for their child's passport by presenting the required documents to the Greek passport authorities.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | ::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for a 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.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Child Citizenship Act'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''''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 a lawful permanent resident.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''''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]].
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''''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.'''''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | Learn more about the [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/citizenship.php Child Citizenship Act].
| + | |
| | | | |
| | =Traveling Abroad= | | =Traveling Abroad= |
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| | '''Applying for Your U.S. Passport''' | | '''Applying for Your U.S. Passport''' |
| | | | |
| − | A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Greece. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. | + | A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Greece]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. For more information, please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Greece]]. |
| − | | + | |
| − | Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports.html Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Obtaining Your Visa'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | 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 Greece, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | 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.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | 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 Greece, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| | | | |
| − | Registration is free and can be done [https://step.state.gov/step/ online].
| |
| | | | |
| | =After Adoption= | | =After Adoption= |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| − | '''What does Greece require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' | + | '''What does [[Greece]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' |
| | | | |
| − | There are no post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements. However, within Greece, there is mutual cooperation between adopted parents and the social workers from Governmental institutions. Psychologists assist adopted parents with any problems that may arise. The welfare Department of the Ministry of Health follows up on the wellbeing of adopted children in their new homes for as long as needed. | + | There are no post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements. However, within [[Greece]], there is mutual cooperation between [[adopted]] parents and the social workers from Governmental institutions. Psychologists assist [[adopted]] parents with any problems that may arise. The welfare Department of the Ministry of Health follows up on the wellbeing of [[adopted]] children in their new homes for as long as needed. |
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| − | ==Contact Information==
| + | =Contact Information= |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| − | '''U.S. Embassy in Greece''' | + | '''U.S. Embassy in [[Greece]]''' |
| | | | |
| | Vasilissis Sophias 91 | | Vasilissis Sophias 91 |
| − | 101 60 Athens, Greece | + | 101 60 Athens, [[Greece]] |
| | 210-7202404, uscis.athens@dhs.gov (Dept of Homeland Security) | | 210-7202404, uscis.athens@dhs.gov (Dept of Homeland Security) |
| | 210-7202452, athensconsul@state.gov (Immigrant Visa Unit) | | 210-7202452, athensconsul@state.gov (Immigrant Visa Unit) |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| − | '''Greece's [[Adoption]] Authority''' | + | '''[[Greece]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority''' |
| | | | |
| | Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity | | Ministry of Health and Social Solidarity |
| | Aristotelous 17 | | Aristotelous 17 |
| − | 104 33 Athens, Greece | + | 104 33 Athens, [[Greece]] |
| | Tel: 210-5232820-9 | | Tel: 210-5232820-9 |
| | Fax: 210-5234768 | | Fax: 210-5234768 |
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| | | | |
| − | '''Embassy of Greece''' | + | '''Embassy of [[Greece]]''' |
| | | | |
| | 2217 [[Massachusetts]] Ave., N.W. | | 2217 [[Massachusetts]] Ave., N.W. |
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| | | | |
| − | Greece also has Consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, [[New York]], San Francisco and [[Florida]]. | + | [[Greece]] also has Consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, [[New York]], San Francisco and [[Florida]]. |
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| | ==SOURCE== | | ==SOURCE== |
| | | | |
| − | '''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=greece] | + | '''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information''' [[adoption]].state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=[[greece]] |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | [[Category: International Adoption]] | | [[Category: International Adoption]] |
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.
Terma Ippokratous
152 36 00 Pendeli
Tel. 210-8109900
Fax: 210-8043230
28is Oktovriou 99
546 42 Thessaloniki
Tel. 2310-940057
Fax: 2310-939860
For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
