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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Latvia"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/lg-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Latvia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/lg-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/lg-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Latvia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/lg-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/lg_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Latvia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/lg_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c9/Riga_dom.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Old Town of Riga is one of many World Heritage Sites in Europe.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c9/Riga_dom.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Old Town of Riga is one of many World Heritage Sites in Europe.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3063/2947186310_ebed2f7f75.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Traditional Latvian dancers.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3063/2947186310_ebed2f7f75.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Traditional Latvian dancers.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2310/1568392158_767614666e.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Riga, Latvia.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2310/1568392158_767614666e.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Riga.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Turaidas_skats_uz_Gauju_2okt04.JPG/450px-Turaidas_skats_uz_Gauju_2okt04.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Gauja River valley in Sigulda, Gauja National Park, Latvia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Turaidas_skats_uz_Gauju_2okt04.JPG/450px-Turaidas_skats_uz_Gauju_2okt04.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Gauja River valley in Sigulda, Gauja National Park.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Sabile_abava_2006_06.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Latvian country scenery in Sabile.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Sabile_abava_2006_06.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Latvian country scenery in Sabile.'''<BR/>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 Latvia=
 +
 +
The name "[[Latvia]]" originates from the ancient Latgalians, one of four eastern Baltic tribes that formed the ethnic core of the Latvian people (ca. 8th-12th centuries A.D.). The region subsequently came under the control of Germans, Poles, Swedes, and finally, Russians. To learn more please read [[About Latvia]].
  
  
 
=Latvia Adoption Alert=
 
=Latvia Adoption Alert=
  
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<span style="color:red">'''Notice: Post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements (April 5, 2011)'''
+
There have been numerous [[adoption]] alerts for [[Latvia]]. To learn about these, please read [[Latvia Adoption Alert]].
  
−
This [[Adoption]] Notice replaces the [[Adoption]] Notice dated May 25, 2010, on post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements for Latvia. Latvia requires periodic post-[[adoption]] reporting on the welfare of an [[adopted]] [[orphan]] in his or her new American family. Latvian law requires that two post-[[adoption]] reports be submitted: one after the first year following [[adoption]] and one after the second year. The reports should be conducted by the adoptive family's [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]]. The intercountry [[adoption]] process requires compliance with the laws of both the United States and the child's country of origin. While the United States cannot enforce the laws of another country, in order for a strong country-to-country partnership on [[adoption]] matters to continue, families and agencies should respect the [[adoption]] laws of the child's country of origin. We strongly encourage agencies to comply with Latvian post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements and to submit reports on time. All agencies operating in Latvia have been notified of this requirement. Compliance will help ensure that Latvia's history of positive experiences with American adoptive families continues.
 
  
 +
=Hague Convention Information=
  
 +
[[Latvia]] 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]). Intercountry [[adoption]] processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing [[legislation]], the Intercountry [[Adoption]] Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing [[legislation]] and regulations of [[Latvia]]. To learn more please read about [[Latvia and the Hague Convention]].
  
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<span style="color:red">Notice: Post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements (May 25, 2010)'''
 
  
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Latvia requires periodic post-[[adoption]] reporting on the welfare of an [[adopted]] [[orphan]] in his or her new American family. Latvian law requires that two post-[[adoption]] reports be submitted: one after the first year following [[adoption]] and one after the second year. The reports should be conducted by the adoptive family's [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]].
+
=Who Can Adopt=
  
 +
In addition to the U.S. requirements, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] need to meet [[Latvia]]’s requirements to [[adopt]] a child from [[Latvia]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Latvia]].
  
−
The intercountry [[adoption]] process requires compliance with the laws of both the United States and the child's country of origin. While the United States cannot enforce the laws of another country, in order for a strong country-to-country partnership on [[adoption]] matters to continue, families and agencies should respect the [[adoption]] laws of the child's country of origin. We strongly encourage agencies to comply with Latvian post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements and to submit reports on time. All agencies operating in Latvia have been notified of this requirement. Compliance will help ensure that Latvia's history of positive experiences with American adoptive families continues.
 
  
 +
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
 +
As [[Latvia]] is party to The Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Latvia]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the [[adoption]] may take place only if the competent authorities of [[Latvia]] have determined that placement of the child within [[Latvia]] has been given due consideration and that an intercountry [[adoption]] is in the child’s best interests. In addition to [[Latvia]]’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.
  
 +
=How to Adopt=
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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'''WARNING:''' [[Latvia]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Do not [[adopt]] or obtain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of a child in [[Latvia]] before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” for the case. Read below for more information.
  
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Latvia 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]). Intercountry [[adoption]] processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry [[Adoption]] Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Latvia.
+
==Adoption Authority==
  
 +
'''[[Latvia]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 +
Ministry of Welfare
  
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Latvia 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 Latvia and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA implementing regulations.
 
  
 +
'''NOTE:''' If any of the following occurred prior to April 1, 2008 (the date on which the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention entered into force with respect to the United States), the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply to your [[adoption]]: 1) you filed a Form [[I-600A]] identifying [[Latvia]] as the country where you intended to [[adopt]]; 2) you filed a Form [[I-600]] or; 3) the [[adoption]] was completed. Under these circumstances, your [[adopted]] child’s visa application could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.
  
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General public concern regarding [[adoption]] of Latvian children by foreigners contributes to reluctance to reform intercountry [[adoption]] procedures, which currently require several extended trips by [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to Latvia to complete the requirements. In addition, the Latvian government has announced that it will approve applications for intercountry [[adoption]] only if the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] file to [[adopt]] a sibling group of three or more children; a child over age 9; a child with severe health problems; or a child released for intercountry [[adoption]] because he or she has not been [[adopted]] by Latvians.
 
  
 +
==The Process==
  
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'''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Read about Transition Cases.
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Because [[Latvia]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Latvia]] 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 for your [[adoption]] to meet all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.  
  
  
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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
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# Choose a U.S. accredited or approved [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]
 +
# Apply to USCIS to be found eligible to [[adopt]]
 +
# Be matched with a child by authorities in [[Latvia]]
 +
# Apply to USCIS for the child to be found eligible for immigration to the United States and receive U.S. agreement to proceed with the [[adoption]]
 +
# [[Adopt]] a child in [[Latvia]]
 +
# Obtain a U.S. immigrant visa for your child and bring your child home
  
 +
To learn more about this process please read about [[How to Adopt from Latvia]].
  
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to the United States from Latvia, you must meet [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php eligibility and suitability requirements]. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php who can adopt] under U.S. immigration law.
 
  
 +
=Traveling Abroad=
  
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Additionally, a child must meet the [http://cfr.vlex.com/vid/204-301-definitions-286271915 definition of Convention adoptee] under U.S. law in order to immigrate to the United States on an IH-3 or IH-4 immigrant visa.
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Latvia]]. 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 Latvia]].
  
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In addition to the U.S. requirements, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] need to meet Latvia’s requirements to [[adopt]] a child from Latvia:
 
  
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==Residency==
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=After Adoption=
  
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who are dual-nationals having both Latvian and U.S. citizenship and residency are advised to follow the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention process requirements set forth below.  By doing so, you will enable your [[adopted]] child to immigrate to the United States and become a U.S. citizen immediately after [[adoption]]. If you [[adopt]] a child in Latvia as Latvian citizens and residents through a domestic Latvian [[adoption]] process without advance U.S. government approval for [[adoption]] under the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, be aware that your adoptive child will not immediately be eligible for U.S. immigration and citizenship benefits. Your child will qualify for a U.S. immigration benefit only after you can demonstrate that the [[adoption]] took place before the child’s 16th birthday and that he/she has lived in your legal and physical [[custody]] outside the United States for at least two years. Please see uscis.gov for immediate relative petition (Petition For Alien Relative Form I-130) and application for expeditious naturalization (Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322 Form N-600K) filing requirements.
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Post-[[Adoption]]/Post-Placement Reporting Requirements
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
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If the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the child continue to reside in [[Latvia]], the [[orphan]] court having [[jurisdiction]] over the child’s place of residence will monitor the [[adopted]] child’s well-being for the first two years after the [[adoption]]'s [[finalization]].
  
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Age of Adopting Parents: Latvia requires that the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] is at least 25 years old and at least 18 years older than the adoptive child.
 
  
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==Marriage==
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If the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the child reside overseas, the Ministry requires post-[[adoption]] reports on the [[adopted]] child for two years after the [[adoption]] (one a year). The reports should be conducted by appropriate child welfare officials in the state where the child resides.
  
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Married couples, as well as single individuals, are eligible to [[adopt]]. Please note that Latvia does not recognize same-sex marriages.
 
  
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==Income==
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We strongly urge you to comply with [[Latvia]]’s post-[[adoption]] requirements in a timely manner. Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s history of positive experiences with U.S. citizen parents
  
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Latvia does not have any income requirements for intercountry adoptions.
 
  
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==Other==
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'''Post-[[Adoption]] Resources'''
  
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Parent-child relationship requirement: Latvian [[adoption]] law requires that a parent-child relationship be established before the final court decision can be made, by the town or city court having [[jurisdiction]] over the child. It leaves to each [[orphan]] court to decide on a case-by-case basis the period of time required to establish the parent-child relationship. The interpretation of the child-parent relationship may differ among courts. '''[[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] are advised that [[orphan]] courts may require them to take care of the adoptive children and share a household in Latvia for up to six months to establish that the parent-child relationship exists and authorize [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to finalize the [[adoption]].'''
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]]. There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and [[adoptee]] [[organizations]] active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
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=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
  
 +
Here are some places to start your support group search:
  
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=How to Adopt=
 
  
 +
[https://www.childwelfare.gov/ Child Welfare Information Gateway]
  
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==    Adoption Authority==
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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
  
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==The Process==
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[http://www.adoptionservices.org/adoption_support_groups_family/index.htm [[Adoption]] Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons]
  
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=Traveling Abroad=
 
  
 +
'''NOTE:''' Inclusion of non-U.S. government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
  
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=After Adoption=
 
  
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=Contact Information=
 +
 +
'''U.S. Embassy in [[Latvia]]'''
 +
 +
1 Samnera Velsa St.
 +
Riga, LV-1510
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Tel: 371-6710-7034; 371-6710-7000
 +
Fax: 371-6710-7001
 +
Email: adoptions-riga@state.gov
 +
Internet: [http://riga.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy Latvia]
 +
 +
 +
'''Latvian [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 +
 +
Children and Family Policy Department
 +
Ministry of Welfare
 +
28 Skolas St., Riga, [[Latvia]], LV-1331
 +
Tel: 371-6702-1600
 +
Fax: 371-6727-6445
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Email: lm@lm.gov.lv
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Internet:  [http://www.lm.gov.lv Latvian Adoption Authority]
 +
 +
 +
'''Embassy of [[Latvia]]'''
 +
 +
2306 [[Massachusetts]] Avenue NW
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[[Washington]], DC 20008
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Tel: 202-328-2840
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Fax: 202-328-2860
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Email: embassy.usa@mfa.gov.lv
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Internet: [http://www.latvia-usa.org/ Embassy of Latvia]
 +
 +
 +
'''Office of Children’s Issues'''
 +
 +
U.S. Department of State
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2201 C Street, N.W.
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SA-29
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[[Washington]], D.C.  20520
 +
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
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Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov
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Internet: [[[adoption]].state.gov U.S. Department of State]
 +
 +
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'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
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 +
For questions about immigration procedures:
 +
National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
 +
Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
 +
Internet: [http://uscis.gov USCIS]
 +
 +
 +
'''For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:'''
 +
 +
National Benefits Center
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Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
 +
Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov
  
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
−
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' [[adoption]].state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=[[latvia]]
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 14:38, 8 July 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

The Old Town of Riga is one of many World Heritage Sites in Europe.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A Latvian child.
Source: flickr.com.

The building of the Brotherhood of Blackheads is one of the most iconic buildings of Old Riga.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

View of Riga towards the cathedral and Vanšu Bridge.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Traditional Latvian dancers.
Source: flickr.com.

Riga.
Source: flickr.com.

Gauja River valley in Sigulda, Gauja National Park.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Latvian country scenery in Sabile.
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 Latvia

The name "Latvia" originates from the ancient Latgalians, one of four eastern Baltic tribes that formed the ethnic core of the Latvian people (ca. 8th-12th centuries A.D.). The region subsequently came under the control of Germans, Poles, Swedes, and finally, Russians. To learn more please read About Latvia.


Latvia Adoption Alert

There have been numerous adoption alerts for Latvia. To learn about these, please read Latvia Adoption Alert.


Hague Convention Information

Latvia is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Latvia. To learn more please read about Latvia and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

In addition to the U.S. requirements, prospective adoptive parents need to meet Latvia’s requirements to adopt a child from Latvia. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Latvia.


Who Can Be Adopted

As Latvia is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, children from Latvia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Latvia have determined that placement of the child within Latvia has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests. In addition to Latvia’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.

How to Adopt

WARNING: Latvia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention. Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Latvia before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” for the case. Read below for more information.

Adoption Authority

Latvia's Adoption Authority Ministry of Welfare


NOTE: If any of the following occurred prior to April 1, 2008 (the date on which the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force with respect to the United States), the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption: 1) you filed a Form I-600A identifying Latvia as the country where you intended to adopt; 2) you filed a Form I-600 or; 3) the adoption was completed. Under these circumstances, your adopted child’s visa application could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.


The Process

Because Latvia is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Latvia 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 for your adoption to meet all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.


  1. Choose a U.S. accredited or approved adoption service provider
  2. Apply to USCIS to be found eligible to adopt
  3. Be matched with a child by authorities in Latvia
  4. Apply to USCIS for the child to be found eligible for immigration to the United States and receive U.S. agreement to proceed with the adoption
  5. Adopt a child in Latvia
  6. Obtain a U.S. immigrant visa for your child and bring your child home

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

Post-Adoption/Post-Placement Reporting Requirements

If the adoptive parents and the child continue to reside in Latvia, the orphan court having jurisdiction over the child’s place of residence will monitor the adopted child’s well-being for the first two years after the adoption's finalization.


If the adoptive parents and the child reside overseas, the Ministry requires post-adoption reports on the adopted child for two years after the adoption (one a year). The reports should be conducted by appropriate child welfare officials in the state where the child resides.


We strongly urge you to comply with Latvia’s post-adoption requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption agency may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s history of positive experiences with U.S. citizen parents


Post-Adoption Resources

Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.


Here are some places to start your support group search:


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children

Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Latvia

1 Samnera Velsa St. Riga, LV-1510 Tel: 371-6710-7034; 371-6710-7000 Fax: 371-6710-7001 Email: adoptions-riga@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy Latvia


Latvian Adoption Authority

Children and Family Policy Department Ministry of Welfare 28 Skolas St., Riga, Latvia, LV-1331 Tel: 371-6702-1600 Fax: 371-6727-6445 Email: lm@lm.gov.lv Internet: Latvian Adoption Authority


Embassy of Latvia

2306 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20008 Tel: 202-328-2840 Fax: 202-328-2860 Email: embassy.usa@mfa.gov.lv Internet: Embassy of Latvia


Office of Children’s Issues

U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street, N.W. SA-29 Washington, D.C. 20520 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov Internet: [[[adoption]].state.gov U.S. Department of State]


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures: National Customer Service Center (NCSC) Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833) Internet: USCIS


For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:

National Benefits Center Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local) Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov

SOURCE

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