Advertisements

Difference between revisions of "Adopting from India"

(→‎Who Can Be Adopted)
(→‎Adoption Authority)
 
(21 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
−
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/in-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of India.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
+
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/in-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
−
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/in-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of India.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
+
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/in-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
−
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/sas/in_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of India.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
+
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/sas/in_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
 +
 
 +
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/70/KolkataFlowermarket.jpg/780px-KolkataFlowermarket.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Vendors selling flowers in a Kolkata market.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e2/KedarRange.jpg/800px-KedarRange.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kedarnath range behind the Kedarnath temple early morning.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e2/KedarRange.jpg/800px-KedarRange.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kedarnath range behind the Kedarnath temple early morning.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
Line 9: Line 11:
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f5/Taj_Mahal_2012.jpg/800px-Taj_Mahal_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Taj Mahal.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f5/Taj_Mahal_2012.jpg/800px-Taj_Mahal_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Taj Mahal.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
−
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1d/Filles_jouant_%C3%A0_la_marelle%2C_Jaura%2C_Inde.jpg/800px-Filles_jouant_%C3%A0_la_marelle%2C_Jaura%2C_Inde.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Girls playing hopscotch in Jaura, India.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
+
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1d/Filles_jouant_%C3%A0_la_marelle%2C_Jaura%2C_Inde.jpg/800px-Filles_jouant_%C3%A0_la_marelle%2C_Jaura%2C_Inde.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Girls playing hopscotch in Jaura'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
−
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a1/Delhi_Montage.jpg/296px-Delhi_Montage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of New Dehli, India.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
+
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a1/Delhi_Montage.jpg/296px-Delhi_Montage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of New Dehli'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/ff/Jama_Masjid_Delhi.JPG/800px-Jama_Masjid_Delhi.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa in New Dehli.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/ff/Jama_Masjid_Delhi.JPG/800px-Jama_Masjid_Delhi.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa in New Dehli.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
Line 19: Line 21:
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/76/India_School.jpg/800px-India_School.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Women attend a literacy programme in Thiruputkuzhi, Tamil Nadu.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/76/India_School.jpg/800px-India_School.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Women attend a literacy programme in Thiruputkuzhi, Tamil Nadu.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
−
=Hague Convention Information=
+
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bf/Mumbai_Montage.jpg/293px-Mumbai_Montage.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Mumbai.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
−
India 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 India.
 
  
 +
'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
−
In January 2011, India implemented new procedures to provide more centralized processing of intercountry adoptions. In addition to the new guidelines, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware of all Indian laws that apply to intercountry [[adoption]]. A child can be legally placed with the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] under the Hindu [[Adoption]] and Maintenance Act of 1956 (HAMA), the Guardians and Wards Act of 1890 (GAWA), or the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2000 (JJA).
+
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.
  
  
−
'''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Read about [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Transition Cases].
+
=About India=
  
 +
The Indus Valley civilization, one of the world's oldest, flourished during the 3rd and 2nd millennia B.C. and extended into northwestern [[India]]. Aryan tribes from the northwest infiltrated the Indian subcontinent about 1500 B.C.; their merger with the earlier Dravidian inhabitants created the classical Indian culture. To learn more please read [[About India]] and [[About India (The Country)]].
  
−
'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
 
  
 +
To learn about the lyrics and history of the national anthem please read [[Indian National Anthem]].
  
−
To bring an adopted child to the United States from India, 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.  Additionally, a child must meet the 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.
 
  
−
=Who Can Adopt=
+
To learn more about various [[India]] facts and please read [[India Travel Fact Sheet]].
  
−
In addition to the U.S. requirements, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] need to meet India’s requirements to adopt a child from India:
 
  
−
==Residency==
+
=India Adoption Alert=
  
−
There are no residency requirements. However, some Recognized Indian Placement Agencies (RIPAs) may ask prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to reside with the child for seven days before departure from India.
+
There have been multiple [[adoption]] alerts for [[India]] over the years. To learn more please read [[India Adoption Alert]].
  
−
==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
  
−
Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be at least 25 years of age and no more than 50 years of age if adopting a child age three or younger. Married couples may not have a combined age of more than 90 years. These provisions may be relaxed in exceptional cases, such as the [[adoption]] of older children, siblings, and children with [[Special Needs|special needs]]. Neither of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], however, can be older than 50 years. See ‘Documents Required’ section for a list of required documents if a couple’s combined age is more than 90 years.  If adopting a child older than three years of age, the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be at least 25 and no more than 55 years of age. Married couples may not have a combined age of more than 105 years.  Single prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be more than 30 and less than 50 years of age. The maximum age is 45 years to adopt children younger than three, and 50 years to adopt children older than three.
+
=Hague Convention Information=
  
−
==Marriage==
+
[[India]] 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 [[India]]. To learn more please read about [[India and the Hague Convention]].
  
−
A married couple must be in a stable relationship for at least five years. Same-sex couples are not eligible to adopt in India.
 
  
−
==Income==
+
=Who Can Adopt=
−
 
+
−
Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should demonstrate adequate financial resources.
+
  
−
==Other==
+
In addition to the U.S. requirements, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] need to meet [[India]]’s requirements to [[adopt]] a child from [[India]].  To learn more about these requirements please read [[Who Can Adopt from India]].
  
−
A second [[adoption]] from India will be considered only after the legal [[adoption]] of the first child is completed, except in the case of siblings adopted at the same time. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be free from any contagious or terminal disease or any mental or physical condition that may prevent them from taking care of the child. A single male is not permitted to adopt a female child.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
−
Because India is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from India 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 India have determined that placement of the child within India has been given due consideration and that an intercountry [[adoption]] is in the child’s best interests. In addition to India’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.
+
Because [[India]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[India]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more about these requirements please read [[Who Can Be Adopted from India]].
  
  
−
'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
+
=How to Adopt=
  
 +
==Adoption Authority==
  
−
'''[[Relinquishment]] and [[Abandonment]]:''' Regional Child Welfare Committees (CWCs) determine whether a child has been relinquished or abandoned for [[adoption]] purposes.
+
'''WARNING:''' [[India]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Do not [[adopt]] or obtain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of a child in [[India]] before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.
  
−
'''Age of Adoptive Child:'' Children up to 18 years of age are eligible for intercountry [[adoption]], as cleared by the CWC. (Note: Under U.S. immigration laws, children adopted through the Convention process must be under the age of 16 at the time a petition is filed on their behalf, unless they are the older sibling under age 18 of a child also adopted by the same prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]).
+
'''[[India]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
−
'''Sibling Adoptions:''' Sibling adoptions are encouraged. The maximum age limit for intercountry [[adoption]] may be waived if the CWC approves.
+
Central [[Adoption]] Resource Authority
 +
Ministry of Women and Child Development
  
−
'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:''' CARA reviews the homestudy to ensure that prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are equipped to provide appropriate care for the child.
+
'''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 [[India]] 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. For more information, read about [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption/Adoption-Process/how-to-adopt/hague-transition-cases.html Transition Cases].
  
−
'''Waiting Period or [[Foster Care]]:''' Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] can foster a child with permission from the RIPA and after obtaining a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) from CARA. The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must submit an [[affidavit]] indicating they will not leave the country without a valid court order, and may choose to provide a copy to the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi.
+
==The Process==
  
−
'''Intra-Family [[Adoption]]:''' CARA is in the process of finalizing specific procedures for intra-family [[adoption]]. In the meantime, the CARA will consider applications for intra-family [[adoption]] on a case-by-case basis in exigent circumstances, such as in cases where both of the child’s parents have died. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should submit an approved [[Home Study|home study]] report and a letter from a Hague accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] stating that the [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] will help process the case, including a commitment to provide periodic post-[[adoption]] reporting. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] habitually residing in the United States must also follow U.S. immigration procedures applicable to children adopted under the Convention.
+
Because [[India]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[India]] 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 to meet all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may not confer immigration benefits on the [[adopted]] child (i.e. it is possible the child would not qualify for an immigrant visa if [[adopted]] out of order).
  
−
'''[[Adoption]] of Tibetan Children:''' CARA will not process cases involving the [[adoption]] of Tibetan children. If prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are adopting a Tibetan child, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) may consider granting a clearance for the [[adoption]] or guardianship order. The MEA has taken these on a case-by-case basis, and the process can be very time-consuming.
 
  
−
=How to Adopt=
+
# 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 [[India]]
 +
# 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]] (or obtain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) the Child in [[India]]
 +
# Obtain a U.S. immigrant visa for your child and bring your child home
  
 +
For more information on this process please read about [[How to Adopt from India]].
  
−
==    Adoption Authority==
 
−
 
−
==The Process==
 
  
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 +
 +
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 +
 +
 +
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. 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 India]].
  
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
 +
'''POST-[[Adoption|ADOPTION]]/POST-PLACEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS'''
 +
 +
Some Indian courts require regular follow-up visits and post-[[adoption]] counseling by a licensed [[Social Worker|social worker]] until the child has adjusted to his/her new environment. The follow-up visits are generally for a period of one year or as directed by the court. Copies of the follow-up reports should be sent to the District Social Welfare Officer or other concerned State Government Department, Voluntary Scrutinizing Agency, and the court where the [[adoption]] or [[guardianship]] order was obtained.
 +
 +
CARA also requires [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to submit post-placement reports on the child through their [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] to CARA and the RIPA. The post-placement reports should be submitted quarterly during the first year, and twice a year during the second year after the child’s arrival in the United States. The reporting continues for two years after the child acquires U.S. citizenship.
 +
 +
We strongly urge you to comply with [[India]] 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 American parents.
 +
 +
 +
'''POST-[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] RESOURCES'''
 +
 +
 +
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.
 +
 +
 +
Here are some places to start your support group search:
 +
 +
 +
[https://www.childwelfare.gov/ Child Welfare Information Gateway]
 +
 +
[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
 +
 +
[http://www.adoptionservices.org/adoption_support_groups_family/index.htmAdoption 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 [[India]]'''
 +
 +
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
 +
New Delhi – 110021
 +
Tel: 091-011-24198000
 +
Fax: 091-011-24198407
 +
Email: NDAdopt@State.gov
 +
Internet: [http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/ U.S. Embassy in India]
 +
 +
 +
'''[[India]] [[Adoption]] Authority'''
 +
 +
Central [[Adoption]] Resource Authority (CARA)
 +
Ministry of Women and Child Development
 +
West Block-8, Wing-2
 +
2nd Floor, R.K. Puram
 +
New Delhi - 110 066
 +
Tel: 91-011 2610-5346, 2610-3378, 2610-6783
 +
Fax: 91-011 2618-0198
 +
Email: carahdesk.wcd@nic.in (for CARINGS inquiries only) or CARA@bol.net.in
 +
Internet: [http://adoptionindia.nic.in India Adoption Authoriy]
 +
 +
 +
'''Embassy of [[India]]'''
 +
 +
2107 [[Massachusetts]] Ave, N.W.
 +
[[Washington]], D.C. 20008
 +
Tel: (202) 939-7000
 +
Fax: (202) 939-7027
 +
Internet: [http://indianembassy.org/ Embassy of India]
 +
 +
 +
[[India]] also has consulates in [[New York]], Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, and San Francisco. Please see list of Indian consulates in United States.
 +
 +
 +
'''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: [http://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: [http://uscis.gov 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.Hague@uscis.dhs.gov
 +
 +
 +
For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:
 +
USCIS National Benefits Center
  
 
==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=[[india]]
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 13:58, 16 June 2021


Source: cia.gov.


Source: cia.gov.


Source: cia.gov.

Vendors selling flowers in a Kolkata market.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Kedarnath range behind the Kedarnath temple early morning.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Taj Mahal.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Girls playing hopscotch in Jaura
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of New Dehli
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa in New Dehli.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A vegetable retailer in Tamil Nadu
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Women attend a literacy programme in Thiruputkuzhi, Tamil Nadu.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of Mumbai.
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 India

The Indus Valley civilization, one of the world's oldest, flourished during the 3rd and 2nd millennia B.C. and extended into northwestern India. Aryan tribes from the northwest infiltrated the Indian subcontinent about 1500 B.C.; their merger with the earlier Dravidian inhabitants created the classical Indian culture. To learn more please read About India and About India (The Country).


To learn about the lyrics and history of the national anthem please read Indian National Anthem.


To learn more about various India facts and please read India Travel Fact Sheet.


India Adoption Alert

There have been multiple adoption alerts for India over the years. To learn more please read India Adoption Alert.


Hague Convention Information

India 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 India. To learn more please read about India and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

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


Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

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

India’s Adoption Authority

Central Adoption Resource Authority Ministry of Women and Child Development

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 India 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. For more information, read about Transition Cases.

The Process

Because India is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from India 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 to meet all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may not confer immigration benefits on the adopted child (i.e. it is possible the child would not qualify for an immigrant visa if adopted out of order).


  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 India
  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 (or obtain legal custody of) the Child in India
  6. Obtain a U.S. immigrant visa for your child and bring your child home

For more information on this process please read about How to Adopt from India.


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport


U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. 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 India.


After Adoption

POST-ADOPTION/POST-PLACEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Some Indian courts require regular follow-up visits and post-adoption counseling by a licensed social worker until the child has adjusted to his/her new environment. The follow-up visits are generally for a period of one year or as directed by the court. Copies of the follow-up reports should be sent to the District Social Welfare Officer or other concerned State Government Department, Voluntary Scrutinizing Agency, and the court where the adoption or guardianship order was obtained.

CARA also requires adoptive parents to submit post-placement reports on the child through their adoption service provider to CARA and the RIPA. The post-placement reports should be submitted quarterly during the first year, and twice a year during the second year after the child’s arrival in the United States. The reporting continues for two years after the child acquires U.S. citizenship.

We strongly urge you to comply with India 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 American 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

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 India

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri New Delhi – 110021 Tel: 091-011-24198000 Fax: 091-011-24198407 Email: NDAdopt@State.gov Internet: U.S. Embassy in India


India Adoption Authority

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) Ministry of Women and Child Development West Block-8, Wing-2 2nd Floor, R.K. Puram New Delhi - 110 066 Tel: 91-011 2610-5346, 2610-3378, 2610-6783 Fax: 91-011 2618-0198 Email: carahdesk.wcd@nic.in (for CARINGS inquiries only) or CARA@bol.net.in Internet: India Adoption Authoriy


Embassy of India

2107 Massachusetts Ave, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008 Tel: (202) 939-7000 Fax: (202) 939-7027 Internet: Embassy of India


India also has consulates in New York, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, and San Francisco. Please see list of Indian consulates in United States.


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: 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.Hague@uscis.dhs.gov


For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition: USCIS National Benefits Center

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=india