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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Italy"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/it-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Italy.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/it-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/it-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Italy.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/it-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/eur/it_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Italy.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/it_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/53/Colosseum_in_Rome%2C_Italy_-_April_2007.jpg/800px-Colosseum_in_Rome%2C_Italy_-_April_2007.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Colosseum in Rome, Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/53/Colosseum_in_Rome%2C_Italy_-_April_2007.jpg/800px-Colosseum_in_Rome%2C_Italy_-_April_2007.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Colosseum in Rome.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/04/%2A%2AEXPLORED%2A%2A_Back%2C_with_nice_memories_-_Di_ritorno%2C_con_buoni_ricordi.jpg/800px-%2A%2AEXPLORED%2A%2A_Back%2C_with_nice_memories_-_Di_ritorno%2C_con_buoni_ricordi.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Southern Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/04/%2A%2AEXPLORED%2A%2A_Back%2C_with_nice_memories_-_Di_ritorno%2C_con_buoni_ricordi.jpg/800px-%2A%2AEXPLORED%2A%2A_Back%2C_with_nice_memories_-_Di_ritorno%2C_con_buoni_ricordi.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Southern [[Italy]].'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/europe/italy/venice/riva_schiavoni.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Venice, Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://www.bigfoto.com/europe/italy/venice/riva_schiavoni.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Venice.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d5/Sunset_over_florence_1.jpg/800px-Sunset_over_florence_1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Florence, Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d5/Sunset_over_florence_1.jpg/800px-Sunset_over_florence_1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Florence.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ee/Chianti-colline2-2.jpg/796px-Chianti-colline2-2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Vineyards in the Chianti region of Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ee/Chianti-colline2-2.jpg/796px-Chianti-colline2-2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Vineyards in the Chianti region.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/The_Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa_SB.jpeg/393px-The_Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa_SB.jpeg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Leaning Tower of Pisa.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/The_Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa_SB.jpeg/393px-The_Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa_SB.jpeg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Leaning Tower of Pisa.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1e/Collage_Venezia.jpg/800px-Collage_Venezia.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Venice, Italy.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1e/Collage_Venezia.jpg/800px-Collage_Venezia.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Venice.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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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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Italy 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 Italy and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.  
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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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'''Adoptions from Italy are rare.''' Only two Italian orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in these rare cases, including adoptions of Italian children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Italy.
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=About Italy=
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
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[[Italy]] became a nation-state in 1861 when the regional states of the peninsula, along with Sardinia and Sicily, were united under King Victor EMMANUEL II. An era of parliamentary government came to a close in the early 1920s when Benito MUSSOLINI established a Fascist dictatorship. His alliance with [[Nazi Germany]] led to [[Italy]]'s defeat in World War II. A democratic republic replaced the monarchy in 1946 and economic revival followed.  To learn more please read [[About Italy]].
  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and Italy is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Italy, 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). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn more].
 
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Italy also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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==Residency==
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[[Italy]] 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 [[Italy]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
  
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must legally reside in Italy.
 
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
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'''Adoptions from [[Italy]] are rare.''' Only two Italian orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in these rare cases, including adoptions of Italian children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in [[Italy]].
  
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[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] must be at least eighteen years old and no more than forty-five years over the age of the [[adoptee]].
 
  
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==Marriage==
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=Who Can Adopt=
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Only married couples may [[adopt]]. The couple must have been married for at least three years (without separation during the three-year period prior to the [[adoption]]) and must reside in Italy. Single persons can only [[adopt]] in very limited circumstances.
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==Income==
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N/A
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==Other==
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Italy]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Italy]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. For more information please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Italy]].
  
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Same-sex couples cannot [[adopt]] in Italy.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Italy is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Italy must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Italy attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Italy'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 [[Italy]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Italy]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Italy]].
  
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'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
 
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'''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:'''  The judge can terminate the parental [[custody]] when the parent violates or neglects his/her parental duties or abuses of his/her powers, with serious prejudice to the child. Therefore, due to serious reasons, the judge can order the removal of either the child or the parent, who mistreats or abuses the minor, from the family's residence.
 
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'''[[Abandonment]] Requirements:'''  In order to be declared "adoptable," the child must be in a state of [[abandonment]], meaning that the child cannot live in his or her own family.  The minor who is deprived of moral and material assistance by the parents or relatives, who are considered responsible for his/her support, is considered abandoned.
 
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'''Age Requirements:''' Children age 14 and older can only be [[adopted]] if they personally consent to the [[adoption]].
 
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'''Sibling Requirements:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are allowed to apply for more adoptions.
 
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If prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] have already [[adopted]] a sibling or if they apply for the [[adoption]] of siblings at the same time, this is considered preferential criteria for the [[adoption]].
 
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'''Waiting Period:''' Up to three years.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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Italy's [[Adoption]] Authority
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[[Italy]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority
  
 
Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali (Commission for Intercountry [[Adoption]])
 
Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali (Commission for Intercountry [[Adoption]])
  
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'''NOTE:''' City Juvenile Courts oversee the handling of [[adoption]] cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should visit the following [http://www.commissioneadozioni.it/it/gli-attori-istituzionali/i-tribunali-per-i-minorenni.aspx website].
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'''NOTE:''' City [[Juvenile]] Courts oversee the handling of [[adoption]] cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should visit the following [http://www.commissioneadozioni.it/it/gli-attori-istituzionali/i-tribunali-per-i-minorenni.aspx website].
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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Because Italy is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Italy 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 [[Italy]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Italy]] 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 Italy 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].  
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with [[Italy]] 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.html Learn more].  
  
  
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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 Italy  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Italy]]
 
# Bringing your Child Home  
 
# Bringing your Child Home  
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Italy]].
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
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The first step in adopting a child from Italy 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 Italy. http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php[Learn more].
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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). Learn how.
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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 Italy. Italy's [[adoption]] authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Italy's law.
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
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If both the United States and Italy determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Italy 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 for 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 Italy'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 Italy, 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 Italy.'''''
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Italy generally includes the following:
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*'''ROLE OF THE [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] AUTHORITY:''' The role of the [[adoption]] authority is established by Chapter Three of the Hague Convention. The [[Adoption]] authority in Italy has the following roles:
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::::1. Collect, preserve and exchange information about the situation of the child and the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], so far as is necessary to complete the [[adoption]];
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::::2. Facilitate, follow and expedite proceedings with a view to obtaining the [[adoption]];
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::::3. Promote the development of [[adoption]] counseling and post-[[adoption]] services in their States;
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provide each other with general evaluation reports about experience with intercountry [[adoption]];
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reply, in so far as is permitted by the law of their State, to justified requests from other Central Authorities or public authorities for information about a particular [[adoption]] situation.
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*'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' City Juvenile Courts oversee the handling of [[adoption]] cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should visit the following [http://www.commissioneadozioni.it/Contents/tribunaliminorenni.aspx website].
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] start the [[adoption]] procedure by submitting a request called "Dicharazione alla Disponabilità per l'Adozione" (Declaration of Willingness to [[Adopt]]) to the Juvenile Court in the city of their choice. Prospective [[adoption]] parents can submit more than one request to Juvenile Courts in various cities as long as all of the Juvenile Courts are aware of all of the requests made.  Based on the information provided by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], the Juvenile Court selects the child that better matches the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. There are no further details on how the child is selected by the Juvenile Court.
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There is a fostering period of one year which can be extended to two years. During that period, the local Juvenile Court monitors and provides support to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. At the end of the fostering period, the Juvenile Court either confirms or revokes the [[adoption]].  The Court will request the intervention of the local social services agency to assist and evaluate the couple, prepare a [[Home Study|home study]], and report the findings to the Court. The Juvenile Court can also appoint a judge and/or a team of specialists, who will hold meetings with the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in order to evaluate them and/or to provide additional information.
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'''ROLE OF [[Adoption Agencies|ADOPTION AGENCIES]]:''' The appointed local social services agency will then conduct a study on the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in order to evaluate their capacity to bring up the minor, their personal economic situation, their personal health conditions, the family environment and the motivation of their request.
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*'''TIME FRAME:'''  An [[adoption]] in Italy can take up to three years from the time the application is filed with the juvenile court until the child is in the new family's home and the [[adoption]] is finalized.
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] APPLICATION:''' (see discussion of request called "Dicharazione alla Disponabilità per l'Adozione" (Declaration of Willingness to [[Adopt]]) in "ROLE OF THE COURT" above).
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] FEES:'''  In the [[adoption]] services contract that you sign at the beginning of the [[adoption]] process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your [[adoption]] process. In Italy, national [[adoption]] services are free of charge.
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:'''  The Declaration of Willingness to [[Adopt]] should be accompanied by the following documents:
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::::::1. Birth Certificates of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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::::::2. Registry Office certificate ("Stato di Famiglia");
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::::::3. Declaration of [[Consent to Adopt|consent to adopt]] by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' parents, given in the form of an [[affidavit]] or, should they be deceased, death certificate(s) of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' parents;
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::::::4. Medical certificate issued by family doctor;
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::::::5. Evidence of economic means (i.e. tax returns; pay stubs);
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::::::6. Criminal record of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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::::::7. Notarial act, or equivalent declaration, attesting that there is neither legal nor [[De Facto|de facto]] separation between the adoptive couple.  No documentation about the child/ren is required.
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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.  Learn how  .
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'''6. Bringing 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.
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After the pre-adoptive [[custody]] period, the Juvenile Court can either confirm or revoke the [[adoption]]. If the [[adoption]] is confirmed, the Juvenile Court issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] and notifies the vital records office of the local City Hall. At that point, the child's birth certificate is changed and will reflect the new family name. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] can apply for the child's birth certificate at the local City Hall.
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::2. Italy 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 Italy.
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Once the birth certificate reports the new family name, the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] can apply for a passport on behalf of the [[adopted]] child. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] can submit their child's application at the local police station. An Italian passport valid for the U.S. will be issued to the minor.
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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.
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
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'''''For adoptions to be finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]]. We urge your family to finalize the [[adoption]] in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
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'''''Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.'''''
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Learn more about the [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/citizenship.php Child Citizenship Act].
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=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Italy. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports.html Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Italy]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  To learn more please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Italy]].
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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 Italy, 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 Italy, 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=
  
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'''What does Italy require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''
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'''What does [[Italy]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''
  
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Italy has no requirements for the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]] requirements
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[[Italy]] has no requirements for the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]] requirements
  
  
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Italy'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Italy]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 121 - 00187 ROMA  
 
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 121 - 00187 ROMA  
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'''Italy's [[Adoption]] Authority'''  
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'''[[Italy]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''  
  
 
Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali
 
Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali
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'''NOTE:''' City Juvenile Courts oversee the handling of [[adoption]] cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should visit the following [http://www.commissioneadozioni.it/Contents/tribunaliminorenni.aspx website].
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'''NOTE:''' City [[Juvenile]] Courts oversee the handling of [[adoption]] cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should visit the following [http://www.commissioneadozioni.it/Contents/tribunaliminorenni.aspx website].
  
  
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'''Embassy of Italy'''
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'''Embassy of [[Italy]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
Address:3000 Whitehaven Street, NW, [[Washington]], DC 20008  
 
Address:3000 Whitehaven Street, NW, [[Washington]], DC 20008  
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Italy also has consulates in: Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, [[New York]], Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
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[[Italy]] also has consulates in: Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, [[New York]], Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
  
  
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==Source==
 
==Source==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=italy]
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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=[[italy]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 14:58, 29 June 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map
Source: cia.gov.

The Colosseum in Rome.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Southern .
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Venice.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Florence.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Vineyards in the Chianti region.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of Venice.
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 Italy

Italy became a nation-state in 1861 when the regional states of the peninsula, along with Sardinia and Sicily, were united under King Victor EMMANUEL II. An era of parliamentary government came to a close in the early 1920s when Benito MUSSOLINI established a Fascist dictatorship. His alliance with Nazi Germany led to Italy's defeat in World War II. A democratic republic replaced the monarchy in 1946 and economic revival followed. To learn more please read About Italy.


Hague Convention Information

Italy 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 Italy and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.


Adoptions from Italy are rare. Only two Italian orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in these rare cases, including adoptions of Italian children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Italy.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Italy is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Italy, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. For more information please read about Who Can Adopt from Italy.


Who Can Be Adopted

Because Italy is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Italy must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. To learn more please read about Who Can Be Adopted from Italy.


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Italy's Adoption Authority

Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali (Commission for Intercountry Adoption)

NOTE: City Juvenile Courts oversee the handling of adoption cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective adoptive parents should visit the following website.

The Process

Because Italy is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Italy 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 Italy 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. Learn more.


  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 Italy
  6. Bringing your Child Home

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

Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

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

Italy has no requirements for the adoptive parents after the adoption requirements


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


NOTE: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Italy

Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 121 - 00187 ROMA Tel: (switchboard): (+39) 06.46741 Fax: (+39) 06.4674.2244 Email: uscitizensrome@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy Italy


The United States also has Consulates General in Florence, Milan and Naples.


Italy's Adoption Authority

Commissione per le Adozioni Internazionali

(Commission for Intercountry Adoption) Largo Chigi, 19 00187 ROMA Telephone numbers: +39 (06) 6779 2060 / 66 / 68 Fax number: +39 (06) 6779 2165 e-mail: cai.segreteria-enti@palazzochigi.it Internet: Commission for Intercountry Adoption


NOTE: City Juvenile Courts oversee the handling of adoption cases. For a complete listing of these courts, prospective adoptive parents should visit the following website.


Embassy of Italy

Address:3000 Whitehaven Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008 Tel.: (202) 612-4400 Fax: (202) 518-2151 Internet: Embassy of Italy.


Italy also has consulates in: Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.


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. State Department


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=italy