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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Namibia"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/wa-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/wa-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/wa-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/wa-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/wa_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/afr/wa_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Namib_Desert_Namibia%282%29.jpg/800px-Namib_Desert_Namibia%282%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Sand dunes in Namib Desert.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Namib_Desert_Namibia%282%29.jpg/800px-Namib_Desert_Namibia%282%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Sand dunes in Namib Desert, Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/57/Children_in_Namibia%281_cropped%29.jpg/800px-Children_in_Namibia%281_cropped%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Khorixas.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/57/Children_in_Namibia%281_cropped%29.jpg/800px-Children_in_Namibia%281_cropped%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Children in Khorixas, Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm1.staticflickr.com/32/62867143_1c51894973.jpg|410x579px|thumb|''''''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm1.staticflickr.com/32/62867143_1c51894973.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Late afternoon in Namibia..'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Katima_Mulilo_Bridge.jpg/800px-Katima_Mulilo_Bridge.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Zambezi River.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Katima_Mulilo_Bridge.jpg/800px-Katima_Mulilo_Bridge.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Zambezi River, Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8485/8203699386_3b0bf04375.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Namibian children.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8485/8203699386_3b0bf04375.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Namibian children.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4092/4957846975_af8094a5d5.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Khomas, Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4092/4957846975_af8094a5d5.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Khomas.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c6/SAC_Namibia-bushveld.jpg/800px-SAC_Namibia-bushveld.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Quivertree Forest, Bushveld, Namibia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c6/SAC_Namibia-bushveld.jpg/800px-SAC_Namibia-bushveld.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Quivertree Forest, Bushveld.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6400842993_6feb29df9e.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A Namibian child.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6400842993_6feb29df9e.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A Namibian child.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
  
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
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The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.
  
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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=About Namibia=
  
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Namibia is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (the Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [http://www.uscis.gov/iframe/ilink/docView/SLB/HTML/SLB/0-0-0-1/0-0-0-29/0-0-0-101/0-0-0-434.html Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 101(b)(1)(F)].
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[[South Africa]] occupied the German colony of South-West Africa during World War I and administered it as a mandate until after World War II, when it annexed the territory. To learn more please read [[About Namibia]].
  
  
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A 2007 Namibian High Court ruling makes intercountry adoption possible.  However, there is no specific law governing adoptions in Namibia.  Intercountry adoption is covered by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare pursuant to The Children’s Act of 1960.  Currently, it is very difficult for non-resident foreigners to [[adopt]].  In general, only foreigners residing in Namibia have been allowed to [[adopt]] Namibian children.  Further, the list of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] for Namibia exceeds the list of children eligible for intercountry adoption, making adoption by non-resident foreigners an even more difficult and lengthy process.
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=Hague Convention Information=
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Intercountry adoption in Namibia is legal but bureaucratically complex.  At a minimum, it involves approval from the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare and a final court order recognizing the adoption.  Close coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration is also required.  Each intercountry adoption in Namibia is handled according to its unique circumstances; specific steps, and the order in which they occur, may vary from case to case.
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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to the United States from Namibia, you must meet [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php eligibility and suitability requirements].  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), determines [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Who Can Adopt] under U.S. immigration law.
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Additionally, a child must meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of orphan] under U.S. law in order to be eligible to immigrate to the United States on an IR-3 or IR-4 immigrant visa.
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[[Namibia]] is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]] (the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention).  Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [https://www.uscis.gov/laws-and-policy/legislation/immigration-and-nationality-act Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 101(b)(1)(F)]. To learn more please read about [[Namibia and the Hague Convention]].
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the following requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from Namibia:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet multiple requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from [[Namibia]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Namibia]].
  
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==Residency==
 
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While there are no legal residency requirements, few non-resident U.S. citizens have successfully [[adopted]] Namibian children.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) must be at least 25 years of age and at least 15 years older than the prospective adoptive child.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Married couples may [[adopt]] jointly, or one spouse may [[adopt]] the other spouse’s child.  Single people, including those who are widowed, separated, or divorced, may also [[adopt]].
 
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==Income==
 
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There is no set income requirement.  As part of the evaluation process for prospective parents, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare will make a determination regarding the parents’ ability to financially support the child.
 
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==Other==
 
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The only successful adoptions by U.S. citizens in recent years were ones where either (1) one or both of the parents were Namibian citizens or former Namibian citizens, or (2) the parents were long-term residents of Namibia who maintained care and [[custody]] of the [[adopted]] child in Namibia for a period exceeding two years.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Namibia has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, [[Namibia]] has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more about those requirements, please read [[Who Can Be Adopted from Namibia]].
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'''[[Relinquishment]]:'''  The [[Social Worker|social worker]] must present proof to the Children’s Court (also known as Family Court) that the prospective adoptive child’s birth parents are not able to care for him/her and consent to the adoption.  The [[Social Worker|social worker]] must also present proof to the court that no family member or relative is able to [[adopt]] the child, and that no other domestic placement is possible. The length of this process will vary from case to case.  The court must be satisfied that the adoption is in the best interest of the child.  If the child is ten years of age or older, he or she must consent to the proposed adoption.
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'''[[Abandonment]]/Death of Parents:'''  A child whose parents are both deceased, or who has been abandoned, is available for adoption.  In the case of the parents’ death, government-issued death certificates must be obtained.  If the child has been abandoned, evidence of [[abandonment]] will be required.
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'''Age of Adoptive Child:'''  The prospective adoptive child must be younger than age 18.  Please note that in order for a child to meet the definition of orphan under U.S. immigration law, a Form [[I-600]] petition must be filed while the child is under the age of 16 (or under the age of 18 if [[adopted]], or to be [[adopted]], together with a sibling under the age of 16).
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'''Sibling Adoptions:'''  The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare strongly advocates that siblings remain together and be [[adopted]] by the same family.
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'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:'''  All children must undergo a medical examination, after which the [[Social Worker|social worker]] will assess suitability for adoption.  If approved for adoption by the [[Social Worker|social worker]], the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare matches the child with prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].  There are no additional procedures for children with [[Special Needs|special needs]], other than identifying their condition in the medical report.
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'''Waiting Period or Foster Care:'''  The length of the process depends on how long the investigation by the [[Social Worker|social worker]] takes, whether the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] submitted all required documents to the Children’s Court, when the next available court date is, and whether the birth parents are also available to attend the hearing.
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'''Caution:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are adoptable.  In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, intending that the child return home when this becomes possible.  In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] or consented to their child(ren)’s adoption.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Namibia’s Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Namibia]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare  
 
The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare  
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==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Namibia generally includes the following steps:
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The process for adopting a child from [[Namibia]] generally includes the following steps:
  
  
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# Apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]]
 
# Apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]]
 
# Be matched with a child
 
# Be matched with a child
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# [[Adopt]] the child in Namibia
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# [[Adopt]] the child in [[Namibia]]
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
 
# Bring your child home
 
# Bring your child home
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Namibia]].
  
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'''1. Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]'''
 
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The recommended first step in adopting a child from Namibia is to decide whether or not to use a licensed [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that can help you with your adoption.  Adoption service providers must be licensed by the U.S. state in which they operate.  The Department of State provides information on selecting an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] on its website.
 
  
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=Traveling Abroad=
  
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'''There are no [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Namibia.''' The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare has issued licenses to private and state social workers to assist [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in finding a child and doing the paperwork for the adoption. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be screened by private or state social workers to determine whether they are eligible to [[adopt]].
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Namibia]]. 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 Namibia]].
  
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The U.S. Embassy in Namibia maintains a [http://windhoek.usembassy.gov/doctors_and_lawyers.html list of attorneys] who practice in Namibia and may be able to assist in adoption cases.
 
  
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=After Adoption=
  
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]'''
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'''What resources are available to assist families after the [[adoption]]?'''
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In order to [[adopt]] a child from Namibia, you will need to meet the requirements of the Government of Namibia and U.S. immigration law.  You must submit an application to Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare of Namibia and be found eligible to [[adopt]].
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]]. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
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To complete the application, the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must work with a local [[Social Worker|social worker]], who will interview and assess them.  The assessment is done through a series of interview sessions and home visits.
 
  
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Here are some good places to start your support group search:
  
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To meet U.S. immigration requirements, you may also file an [[I-600A]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600a Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition] with U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to be found eligible and suitable to [[adopt]].
 
  
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[https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_postadoption.cfm Child Welfare Information Gateway]
  
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child'''
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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
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If you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare will provide you with a referral. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of and provide a permanent home for a particular child.
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The child must be eligible to be [[adopted]] according to Namibia’s requirements, as described in the Who Can Be [[Adopted]] section.  The child must also meet the [http://www.uscis.gov/tools/glossary/orphan definition of an orphan] under U.S. immigration law.
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'''NOTE:''' Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
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'''4. [[Adopt]] Child in Namibia'''
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The process for finalizing the adoption in Namibia generally includes the following:
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*'''Role of Adoption Authority:'''  The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare is the government agency directly involved with the adoption of Namibian children and is the correspondent agency for International Social Services.  The Ministry registers all adoptions, handles intercountry adoption inquiries, and ensures that both the prospective parents and the prospective adoptive child meet all adoption requirements prior to the court granting [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the prospective adoptive child to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] for the purpose of adoption (either in Namibia or abroad).
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=Contact Information=
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*'''Role of the Court:'''  The family court issues the final Order of Adoption recognizing the [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) as the parents of the child.
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*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:'''  There are no [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]] in Namibia.  However, individual private and state social workers have been given licenses by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare to provide adoption services.  Private social workers charge a fee for these services; state social workers do not.
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*'''Adoption Application:'''  Initial applications and inquiries should be made with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare.
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*'''Time Frame:'''  The time required to complete the adoption process will vary greatly depending on the complexity and circumstances of the case.  Once the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare identifies and approves a child for adoption, the Children’s Court (also known as Family Court) will issue an Order of Adoption and send it to the Ministry to be recorded in the Register of Adoptions.  After the Order of Adoption is registered with the Ministry, it is then issued to the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], usually within two to four months.
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*'''Adoption Fees:'''  The Government of Namibia has not published set fees for the processing of intercountry adoptions.  As noted, the processing of intercountry adoptions is extremely rare in Namibia, and is done on a case-by-case basis.
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*'''Documents Required:''' During the assessment process, the [[Social Worker|social worker]] reviews:
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::::1. Identity documents
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::::2. Marriage certificate (if married)
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::::3. Police clearance
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::::4. Medical certificate
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::::5. Psychological assessment report
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::::6. Written testimonials from friends and/or acquaintances, and
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::::7. Pay slips.  '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested.
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*'''Authentication of Documents:'''  You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic.  If so, the Department of State, [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations/judicial/authentication-of-documents/office-of-authentications.html Authentications Office] may be able to assist.
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Namibia]]'''
  
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'''5. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Orphan Status'''
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Address: 14 Lossen St., Ausspannplatz, Windhoek
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Tel: 264+61+295-8500
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Fax: 264+61+295-8603
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Email:  consularwindho@state.gov
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Internet:  [http://windhoek.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy Namibia]
 
   
 
   
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After you finalize the adoption (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Namibia, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must determine whether the child meets the definition of orphan under U.S. law.  You will need to file a Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative].
 
  
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'''[[Namibia]] [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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'''6. Bring Your Child Home'''
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Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare
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Trust Center, Independence Avenue
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Once your adoption is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), you need to apply for several documents for your child before you can apply for a U.S. immigrant visa to bring your child home to the United States. Note: Please see special note on passports below before proceeding.
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Mail: P.O. Box 13359
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Windhoek, [[Namibia]]  
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Tel: +264-61-283-3164
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Fax: +264-61-229569
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Email:  genderequality@mgecw.gov.na
  
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'''Embassy of [[Namibia]]'''
  
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::1. Birth Certificate
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1605 [[New Hampshire]] Avenue, N.W.
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[[Washington]], D.C.  20009-2511
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Tel:  202.986.0540
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Fax:  202.986.0443
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Email:  info@namibianembassyusa.org
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Internet: [http://namibianembassyusa.org/ Embassy of Namibia]
  
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If you have finalized the adoption in Namibia, you will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child.  Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.
 
  
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If you have been granted [[custody]] for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States, the birth certificate you obtain will, in most cases, not yet include your name.
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'''Office of Children’s Issues'''
  
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Birth Certificates will be obtained or amended by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration:
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U.S. Department of State 
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CA/OCS/CI 
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SA-17, 9th Floor
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[[Washington]], DC 20522-1709
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Tel: 1-888-407-4747
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Email:  AskCI@state.gov
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Internet:  [http://adoption.state.gov U.S. Department of State]
  
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Cohen Building (corner of Casino and Independence Avenues)
 
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Windhoek, Namibia
 
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Tel: 264+61+292-2111
 
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Fax:  264+61+292-2185
 
  
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::2. Namibian Passport
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'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
  
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Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Namibia.
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For questions about immigration procedures:
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National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
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Tel:  1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
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Internet:  [http://uscis.gov |USCIS]
  
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Passports may be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration:
 
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Cohen Building (corner of Casino and Independence Avenues)
 
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Windhoek
 
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Tel:  264+61+292-2111
 
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Fax:  264+61+292-2185
 
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'''''Special Note on Passports:  In some cases, once a child has been legally [[adopted]] in Namibia by non-Namibian parents, and has been issued a new birth certificate (as required by law) to recognize that legal change, the child may have difficulty getting a Namibian passport.  (The child will not yet be eligible for a U.S. passport.)'''''
 
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It is highly recommended in any intercountry adoption to coordinate closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration and seek issuance of a Namibian passport for your prospective adoptive child before completing the adoption proceedings and obtaining your child’s new or amended birth certificate.
 
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::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
 
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The U.S. Embassy in Namibia does not conduct immigrant visa interviews or make decisions in immigrant visa cases.  All immigrant visa applications for citizens of Namibia, including [[adopted]] children, are adjudicated by the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]].  The U.S. Embassy in Namibia will accept and forward applications submitted by prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s).
 
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child and have filed Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative], you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your child from the U.S. Consulate in Johannesburg.  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 [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php medical report] on the child.
 
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'''NOTE:'''  You must have an approved Form [[I-600]] petition before an IR-3 or IR-4 immigrant visa may be issued.  You may file your Form [[I-600]] petition with USCIS domestically, or in person at the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, provided you have a valid, approved Form [[I-600A]] on record.  Form [[I-600]] petitions filed at the U.S. Embassy in Namibia will be forwarded to the USCIS office located at the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]], for processing.  If approved, the petition will be referred to the Consular Section in Johannesburg for immigrant visa processing.  Please see Applying for a Visa at the U.S. Consulate in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]], for addition information about the immigrant visa process.
 
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American citizens are required to make online appointments for all services with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Namibia, through the following website: windhoek.usembassy.gov.  The Consular Section is open for American Citizen Services, Mondays through Thursdays between 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
 
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The U.S. Embassy in Namibia accepts payment in U.S. dollars, Namibian dollars, and South African Rand.  Payments to the U.S. Embassy in Namibia are only accepted at the Embassy’s Consular Section and should not be paid to a third party.  Upon submission, the Consular Section will forward your Form [[I-600]] application with proof of payment to U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg.
 
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'''Applying for a Visa at the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]]:'''  Before traveling, please review the [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html#entry_requirements Consular Information Sheet] for [[South Africa]] and be sure to comply with the Government of [[South Africa]]’s entry requirements, which stipulate that travelers to [[South Africa]] must have at least two blank pages in their foreign passport upon entry.
 
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After the Consular Section receives the family’s approved Form [[I-600]] petition, the Consular Section will contact the family concerning their next steps.  Immigrant visa applicants must complete a number of forms before the immigrant visa interview.  Once the family is has all the required documentation and is ready for the interview, they must call the Consular Section to schedule an appointment for the immigrant visa interview.  A consular officer conducts the immigration interview.  A consular officer must see the [[adopted]] child before the immigrant visa may be issued.  All adoption cases must include proof of a full and final adoption or proof of [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child for purposes of emigration and adoption in the United State.
 
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Mailing Address:
 
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Consulate General of the United States of America
 
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P.O. Box 787197, Sandton, 2146
 
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Johannesburg, [[South Africa]]
 
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Physical Address:
 
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1 Sandton Drive, Sandhurst (opposite Sandton City Mall)
 
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Johannesburg, [[South Africa]]
 
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Tel:  (27 11) 290-3000
 
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Fax:  (27 11) (011) 884-0396
 
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Email:  consularjohannesburg@state.gov
 
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'''NOTE:'''  Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 working hours and it will not normally be possible to provide the visa to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] on the day of the interview.  [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] should not make final travel arrangements until they receive the visa.
 
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized after the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
 
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'''''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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−
 
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Read more about the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000].
 
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=Traveling Abroad=
 
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Namibia. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The [https://pptform.state.gov/ Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
 
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−
 
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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 Namibia, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
 
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−
 
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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 Namibia, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
 
−
 
−
=After Adoption=
 
  
 +
For questions about filing a Form [[I-600A]] or [[I-600]] petition:
 +
National Benefits Center
 +
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=[[namibia]]
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 12:55, 12 July 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Sand dunes in Namib Desert.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Children in Khorixas.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

'
Source: flickr.com.

Zambezi River.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Namibian children.
Source: flickr.com.

Khomas.
Source: flickr.com.

Quivertree Forest, Bushveld.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A Namibian child.
Source: flickr.com.


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 Namibia

South Africa occupied the German colony of South-West Africa during World War I and administered it as a mandate until after World War II, when it annexed the territory. To learn more please read About Namibia.


Hague Convention Information

Namibia is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (the Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 204.3 as it relates to orphans as defined under the Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 101(b)(1)(F). To learn more please read about Namibia and the Hague Convention.

Who Can Adopt

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet multiple requirements in order to adopt a child from Namibia. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Namibia.


Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Namibia’s Adoption Authority

The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare

The Process

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


  1. Choose an adoption service provider
  2. Apply to be found eligible to adopt
  3. Be matched with a child
  4. Adopt the child in Namibia
  5. Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
  6. Bring your child home

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?

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


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


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children


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

Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Namibia

Address: 14 Lossen St., Ausspannplatz, Windhoek Tel: 264+61+295-8500 Fax: 264+61+295-8603 Email: consularwindho@state.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy Namibia


Namibia Adoption Authority

Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare Trust Center, Independence Avenue Mail: P.O. Box 13359 Windhoek, Namibia Tel: +264-61-283-3164 Fax: +264-61-229569 Email: genderequality@mgecw.gov.na

Embassy of Namibia

1605 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009-2511 Tel: 202.986.0540 Fax: 202.986.0443 Email: info@namibianembassyusa.org Internet: Embassy of Namibia


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 Email: AskCI@state.gov Internet: 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-600A or I-600 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=namibia