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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Colombia"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/co-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Colombia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/co-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/co-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Colombia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/co-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/soa/co_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Colombia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/soa/co_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/co/images/CO_001.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street scene in the northern city of Cartagena.'''<BR/>Source: cia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/photo_gallery/co/images/CO_001.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Street scene in the northern city of Cartagena.'''<BR/>Source: cia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/Johnny_Cay_%288304072347%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Archipelago of San Andreas in the Carribean.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/Johnny_Cay_%288304072347%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Archipelago of San Andreas in the Carribean.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/35/Mujer_Wayuu_woman_Guajira_Colombia_by_Jenni_Contreras.png/800px-Mujer_Wayuu_woman_Guajira_Colombia_by_Jenni_Contreras.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The Wayuu are the largest indigenous ethnic group in Colombia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bb/BOGOTA_LEGAL_2.png/367px-BOGOTA_LEGAL_2.png|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Bogota.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bb/BOGOTA_LEGAL_2.png/367px-BOGOTA_LEGAL_2.png|410x579px|thumb|'''Collage of Bogota, Colombia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b5/Sunset_on_the_Amazon_%287613489930%29.jpg/800px-Sunset_on_the_Amazon_%287613489930%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Sunset on the Amazon River.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b5/Sunset_on_the_Amazon_%287613489930%29.jpg/800px-Sunset_on_the_Amazon_%287613489930%29.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Sunset on the Amazon River.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
  
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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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'''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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Colombia 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 Colombia and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law and regulations implementing the Convention.
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=About Colombia=
  
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[[Colombia]] was one of the three countries that emerged from the collapse of Gran [[Colombia]] in 1830 (the others are [[Ecuador]] and [[Venezuela]]). A nearly five-decade long conflict between government forces and anti-government insurgent groups, principally the Revolutionary Armed Forces of [[Colombia]] (FARC) heavily funded by the drug trade, escalated during the 1990s. More than 31,000 former paramilitaries had demobilized by the end of 2006 and the United Self Defense Forces of [[Colombia]] as a formal organization had ceased to function. In the wake of the paramilitary demobilization, emerging criminal groups arose, whose members include some former paramilitaries. The insurgents lack the military or popular support necessary to overthrow the government, but continue attacks against civilians. Large areas of the countryside are under guerrilla influence or are contested by security forces. In November 2012, the Colombian Government started formal peace negotiations with the FARC aimed at reaching a definitive bilateral ceasefire and incorporating demobilized FARC members into mainstream society and politics. The Colombian Government has stepped up efforts to reassert government control throughout the country, and now has a presence in every one of its administrative departments. Despite decades of internal conflict and drug related security challenges, [[Colombia]] maintains relatively strong democratic institutions characterized by peaceful, transparent elections and the protection of civil liberties.  To learn more, read [[About Colombia (The Country)]]. 
  
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Colombia's Central Authority for adoptions, the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF), is the only means of adopting a Colombian child; Colombian law prohibits private adoptions. Please note ICBF does not allow for a Colombian child to travel to the United States to be [[adopted]]. Therefore, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must obtain a full and final [[adoption]] under Colombian law before the child can immigrate to the United States. Adopting parents are required to be physically present before a "family judge" at the time of [[adoption]]. No exceptions are made to this requirement.
 
  
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To learn more about specific facts regarding [[Colombia]], read the [[Colombia Travel Fact Sheet]].
  
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'''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
 
  
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=Who Can Adopt=
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Read about the story and lyrics behind the [[Colombian National Anthem]].
  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and Colombia is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Colombia, you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
 
  
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=Colombia Adoption Alert=
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Colombia also has the following eligibility requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
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There have been multiple [[adoption]] alerts for [[Colombia]] over the years. To learn more please read the [[Colombia Adoption Alert]] page.
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==Residency==
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There are no residency requirements for intercountry adoptions from Columbia.
 
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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Both parents are required to be 25 years old. In practice, newborns are assigned to younger couples and older children to older couples.
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[[Colombia]] 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 [[Colombia]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law and regulations implementing the Convention.  
  
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==Marriage==
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[[Colombia]]'s Central Authority for adoptions, the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF), is the only means of adopting a Colombian child; Colombian law prohibits private adoptions. Please note ICBF does not allow for a Colombian child to travel to the United States to be [[adopted]]. Therefore, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must obtain a full and final [[adoption]] under Colombian law before the child can immigrate to the United States. Adopting parents are required to be physically present before a "family judge" at the time of [[adoption]]. No exceptions are made to this requirement.
  
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Colombian law allows adoptions by a married man and woman and common law spouses of more than three years. Single men and women are only allowed to [[adopt]] children over the age of seven on a case-by-case basis.
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'''NOTE:''' Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Learn more].
  
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==Income==
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=Who Can Adopt=
  
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are required to submit documentation confirming their ability to provide for the [[adopted]] child. This requirement may be met by only one parent.  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Colombia]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Colombia]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more, read about [[Who Can Adopt from Colombia]].
  
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==Other==
 
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Gay or Lesbian individual or couple prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are advised that they should consult with the ICBF regarding Colombia’s legal requirements prior to pursuing an [[adoption]] there. In addition, according to Colombian law, both parents must be found "physically and emotionally capable" to [[adopt]].
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because [[Colombia]] is a member of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Colombia]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that [[Colombia]] attempt to place a child with a family in [[Colombia]] before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to [[Colombia]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
  
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Because Colombia is a member of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Colombia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Colombia attempt to place a child with a family in Colombia before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Colombia's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States.  
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[http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn more] about the Convention's requirements for adoptable children.
  
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[http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn more] about the Convention's requirements for adoptable children.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
  
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==Adoption Authority==
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Because [[Colombia]] is a member of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Colombia]] 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 for [[adoption]].
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'''Colombian Central Authority'''
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BIENESTAR FAMILIAR (ICBF)
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==The Process==
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Because Colombia is a member of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Colombia 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 for [[adoption]].
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A]] with Colombia before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention does not apply to your [[adoption]]; it could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for [[orphan]] adoptions. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].   
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A]] with [[Colombia]] before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention does not apply to your [[adoption]]; it could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for [[orphan]] adoptions. [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html Learn more].   
  
  
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# Be Matched with a Child
 
# Be Matched with a Child
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in Colombia
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Colombia]]
 
# Bring your Child Home
 
# Bring your Child Home
  
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To learn more, read about [[How to Adopt from Colombia]]
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'''1.Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
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The first step in adopting a child from Colombia is to select an accredited or approved [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide [[adoption]] services between the United States and Colombia. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/accreditation.php Learn more]. Once prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] decide that Colombia is the nation from which they wish to [[adopt]], they must first contact the ICBF, or an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in Colombia, in order to obtain a list of [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States, nearest to the couple's place of residence, that are accredited by both the Colombian and U.S. Governments.
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An accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] will conduct the [[Home Study|home study]] and assist the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in preparing the paperwork necessary for Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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'''NOTE:''' Many of the documents required for the Form I-800A are the same as those required by ICBF, so it is wise to review both lists to avoid duplicating efforts.
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'''2.Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]'''
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After you choose an accredited [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]], you apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form I-800A) by the U.S. government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php Learn more].  Please note that if you reside in Colombia, you should contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá for instructions. Anyone with questions may contact the embassy any working day from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and ask for the person responsible for processing visas for [[adopted]] children.
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Once the U.S. Government determines you "eligible" and "suitable" to be an [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]], you or your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] will forward your information to ICBF in Colombia. The Central Authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Colombian law.
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Once USCIS has approved the documentation, parents must compile the following list of documents for submission to the ICBF:
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::::1.  Application Form for [[adoption]] (this can be provided by the ICBF or found on the ICBF Website);
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::::2.  Birth certificate(s)of the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s);
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::::3.  Marriage certificate or proof of common law relationship of prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
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::::4.  Medical examination(s) by Board-certified physicians clearly stating that prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) is (are) mentally and physically capable of caring for a child (or children);
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::::5.  National law enforcement clearance issued by a competent police authority. For U.S. citizens, this consists of a set of fingerprints, and their results, issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). These cards may be requested from the Department of Homeland Security. When completed, the cards for the U.S. records check as well as the USD $85.00 fee and a letter of intent (for [[adoption]] purposes) should be sent to the address below. The FBI may take as long as two to three months to return the completed results; National Visa Center, Fingerprint Unit, 32 Rochester Avenue, Portsmouth, [[New Hampshire]] 03801.  '''NOTE:''' The set of fingerprints submitted previously with the Form I-800A cannot be submitted to the ICBF.
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::::6.  Birth certificates of any children previously [[adopted]] by the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s);
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::::7.  Certificate of financial ability and employment letters explaining time of service and monthly salary received in U.S. dollars;
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::::8.  If self-employed, a certified document regarding the parent's(s') financial resources or last income tax return with supporting documents;
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::::9.  Social and psychological study of the prospective adoptive family that establishes physical, mental, moral and social capacity. The [[Home Study|home study]] required by USCIS can fulfill both the U.S. and the Colombian requirements;
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::::10. If there were previous marriages or partners of the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s), proof of divorce and reasons for such dissolutions should be presented; and
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::::11. Notarized statement clarifying any changes in name or indicating, "also known as." Generally, Colombian women do not change their names to that of their husbands. As a result, Colombian courts are accustomed to birth certificates, marriage certificates, and passports with no variation in name. If you have documents in both maiden and marriage names, you must submit a notarized statement indicating the reasons for the discrepancies in your documents.  Once the ICBF approves the package of documents, it will be in a position to inform prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], through their [[adoption]] service providers, about the availability of children in need of a family placement and the amount of time it is likely to take to complete an [[adoption]].
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'''3.Be Matched with a Child:'''
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If both the United States and Colombia determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the Central Authority in Colombia may provide you with a referral for a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/what.php Learn more] about making this critical decision.
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ICBF will inform the parents, through the [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]], once a child has officially been assigned to them. Medical, social, psychological, and nutritional assessments are provided to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], as well as photographs of the child. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are given two months to make a decision as to whether to [[adopt]] that particular child.
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'''4.Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]:'''
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After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the USCIS for permission to [[adopt]] that child (Form I-800, Petition to Classify a Convention [[adoptee]] as an Immediate Relative). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. immigration law to be [[adopted]] and enter the United States. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn how].
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After this, your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] or you will submit a visa application for to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Bogota. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Office determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he or she will notify the ICBF (Article 5 letter). For Convention country adoptions, prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) may not proceed with the [[adoption]] until this takes place.
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At this point, you may travel to Colombia to begin the legal process with Colombian authorities. The ICBF or the Colombian [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] will assist with obtaining the documents needed to complete Colombian legal procedures.
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'''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the [[adoption]] process.'''''
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'''5.Adopt the Child in Colombia'''
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'''''Remember: Before you [[adopt]] a child in Colombia, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the [[adoption]] in Colombia.'''''
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] in Colombia generally includes the following:
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*'''Role of The Central Authority:''' Colombian law does not allow for private adoptions. Children may be [[adopted]] only through the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) and approved [[Adoption Agencies|adoption agencies]]. The ICBF will match the child with the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) and help with obtaining paperwork before the case moves to the Colombian courts.
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*'''Role of The Court:''' The Colombian courts require a letter from the U.S. Embassy in Bogota stating that they will issue an immigrant visa to the child if all [[adoption]] and U.S. immigrant requirements are met. When all documentation is completed, the courts will provide the [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]], a new Colombian birth certificate, and a new Colombian passport. '''NOTE:''' Colombian law requires that both adopting parents be physically present when the [[adoption]] is presented to a "family judge." No exceptions are made to this requirement.
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*'''Role of [[Adoption]] Service Providers:''' Because Colombia is a Convention country, [[adoption]] services must be provided by an accredited agency, temporarily accredited agency, approved person, supervised provider, or exempted provider. It is essential that prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) seeking to [[adopt]] from a Convention country use an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]. The Department of State maintains a current list of accredited [[adoption]] service providers. The list of accredited [[adoption]] service providers is also provided on the website of the Hague Permanent Bureau at www.hcch.net.
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*'''Time Frame:''' There is no set time frame for completing an intercountry [[adoption]] from Colombia. There are many factors that determine how long the [[adoption]] and visa process takes, including paperwork approval times, desired sex and age of the child, and the age of the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s). [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] have reported the entire process taking 18 to 30 months.
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*'''[[Adoption]] Application:''' Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must first contact the ICBF or an accredited [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] in Colombia in order to obtain a list of [[adoption]] service providers in the United States that are accredited by both the Colombian and U.S. Governments.
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*'''[[Adoption]] Fees:''' It is difficult to predict how much the entire [[adoption]] process will cost as each case has unique circumstances. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] have reported spending between $12,000 USD and $20,000 USD. The Colombian passport fee is approximately $30 USD. These expenses should have been itemized in the fees and estimated expenses section of your [[adoption]] services contract.
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'''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
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Now that your [[adoption]] is complete, there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for several documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
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::1. Birth Certificate
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You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate. In Colombia, this should be processed at the same time as the [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]].
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::2. Colombian Passport
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Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he or she will need a travel document or passport from Colombia. The court will authorize a new passport, containing the information from the new birth certificate, when issuing the [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]].  Please note that as of July 2010, The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs now requires eight business days to issue a new passport. A temporary, three-month validity emergency Colombian passport may be issued sooner, but the fee is higher, about 200,000 Colombian Pesos, or about USD $100.
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::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the U.S. Embassy in Bogota for your child. After the [[adoption]] is granted, visit the embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the Panel Physician's medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/health.php Learn more].
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In order for the U.S. Embassy to issue the letter required by the Colombian family judges that commits the embassy to issuing an immigrant visa under the condition that all [[adoption]] and U.S. immigration requirements are met, the embassy needs to have received a Form I-800A (Application for Determination of Suitability to [[adopt]] a child from a Convention Country) approved by the USCIS.
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The following is a list of the documents required by the U.S. Embassy in order to process immigrant visas for Colombian children who have been [[adopted]] by U.S. citizens:
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::::::1. Form I-800, Petition to Classify a Convention [[adoptee]] as an Immediate Relative. These forms have to be filled out completely, signed by both [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and filed with the U.S. Embassy before the child reaches his or her sixteenth (16) birthday;
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::::::2. Form DS-260, Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration, Parts I and II. These forms should be filled out by one of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in the child's name before coming for the formal visa interview. Every item should be answered. If information is not applicable, please write N/A in the block;
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::::::3. Child's Colombian passport;
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::::::4. Two (2) COLOR frontal portrait photographs of the child with a WHITE background on GLOSSY paper; the total frame should be 5 cm x 5 cm and the child's head size 3 cm x 3 cm;
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::::::5. Child's birth certificates (originals or notarized copies). Bring both pre-[[adoption]] and post-[[adoption]] certificates; The pre-[[adoption]] birth certificate must be obtained prior to the [[adoption]] being finalized;
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::::::6. [[Abandonment]] Decree or [[Custodial Parent]]'s Release (original or notarized copy). This document should have the Colombian Family Welfare Institute's (ICBF) approval;
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::::::7. Final [[Adoption Decree]] (original or notarized copy);
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::::::8. The $400 USD fee for an immigrant visa processed by the embassy,
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::::::9. Copy of Medical Exam: Before an immigrant visa can be issued, all [[adopted]] children must have a medical examination performed by the embassy's approved Panel Physician, named below. The cost of this medical examination is approximately $50 USD and must be paid by the parents directly to the physician, not to the embassy. The child's Colombian passport will be required for the medical appointment.
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'''NOTE:''' Visa issuance after the final interview takes at least one business day, and it is not possible to provide the visa to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] on the day of the interview. [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] should allow at least one business day after the interview before making final travel arrangements.
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to acquire American citizenship when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
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'''''For adoptions to be finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your child to typically acquire American citizenship when the U.S. state court issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]]. We urge your family to finalize the [[adoption]] in a U.S. State court as quickly as possible.
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'''''Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting.'''''
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Learn more about the [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/citizenship.php Child Citizenship Act].
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=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Colombia. 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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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Colombia]]. 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. To learn more, read about [[Traveling Abroad in Colombia]].
  
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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 Colombia, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information] website.
 
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'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
 
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Before you travel to Colombia, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. And 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 Colombia, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.  Registration is free and can be done [https://step.state.gov/step/ online].
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
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'''What does [[Colombia]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''  
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'''What does Colombia require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''  
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Colombian law does not currently have any post-[[adoption]] requirements.  
 
Colombian law does not currently have any post-[[adoption]] requirements.  
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Colombia'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Colombia]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
Carrera 45, No. 24B-27  
 
Carrera 45, No. 24B-27  
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Bogotá, Colombia  
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Bogotá, [[Colombia]]
 
Tel: 011-571-383-2795, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (EST)  
 
Tel: 011-571-383-2795, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (EST)  
 
Email: IVBogota@state.gov, Attn Adoptions  
 
Email: IVBogota@state.gov, Attn Adoptions  
  
  
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'''Colombia's Central Authority'''
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'''[[Colombia]]'s Central Authority'''
 
   
 
   
 
BIENESTAR FAMILIAR (ICBF)  
 
BIENESTAR FAMILIAR (ICBF)  
 
Grupo Nacional de Adopciones  
 
Grupo Nacional de Adopciones  
 
Avenida 68 # 64-01  
 
Avenida 68 # 64-01  
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Bogotá, Colombia  
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Bogotá, [[Colombia]]
 
Tel: 011-57-1-437 7630 - Ext. 3158 - 3157  
 
Tel: 011-57-1-437 7630 - Ext. 3158 - 3157  
 
Website: [http://icbf.gov.co Bienestar Familiar (ICBF)]  
 
Website: [http://icbf.gov.co Bienestar Familiar (ICBF)]  
  
  
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'''Embassy of Colombia'''
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'''Embassy of [[Colombia]]'''
 
   
 
   
 
2118 Leroy Place, NW  
 
2118 Leroy Place, NW  
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==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' [[adoption]].state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=[[colombia]]
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=colombia]
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[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 13:56, 16 June 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Street scene in the northern city of Cartagena.
Source: cia.org.

Monserrate Church in Bogota.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Archipelago of San Andreas in the Carribean.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Collage of Bogota.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Sunset on the Amazon River.
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 Colombia

Colombia was one of the three countries that emerged from the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830 (the others are Ecuador and Venezuela). A nearly five-decade long conflict between government forces and anti-government insurgent groups, principally the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) heavily funded by the drug trade, escalated during the 1990s. More than 31,000 former paramilitaries had demobilized by the end of 2006 and the United Self Defense Forces of Colombia as a formal organization had ceased to function. In the wake of the paramilitary demobilization, emerging criminal groups arose, whose members include some former paramilitaries. The insurgents lack the military or popular support necessary to overthrow the government, but continue attacks against civilians. Large areas of the countryside are under guerrilla influence or are contested by security forces. In November 2012, the Colombian Government started formal peace negotiations with the FARC aimed at reaching a definitive bilateral ceasefire and incorporating demobilized FARC members into mainstream society and politics. The Colombian Government has stepped up efforts to reassert government control throughout the country, and now has a presence in every one of its administrative departments. Despite decades of internal conflict and drug related security challenges, Colombia maintains relatively strong democratic institutions characterized by peaceful, transparent elections and the protection of civil liberties. To learn more, read About Colombia (The Country).


To learn more about specific facts regarding Colombia, read the Colombia Travel Fact Sheet.


Read about the story and lyrics behind the Colombian National Anthem.


Colombia Adoption Alert

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


Hague Convention Information

Colombia is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, all adoptions between Colombia and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law and regulations implementing the Convention.

Colombia's Central Authority for adoptions, the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF), is the only means of adopting a Colombian child; Colombian law prohibits private adoptions. Please note ICBF does not allow for a Colombian child to travel to the United States to be adopted. Therefore, prospective adoptive parents must obtain a full and final adoption under Colombian law before the child can immigrate to the United States. Adopting parents are required to be physically present before a "family judge" at the time of adoption. No exceptions are made to this requirement.

NOTE: Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Learn more.

Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Colombia is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Colombia, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more, read about Who Can Adopt from Colombia.


Who Can Be Adopted

Because Colombia is a member of the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Colombia must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the Convention requires that Colombia attempt to place a child with a family in Colombia before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. In addition to Colombia's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States.

Learn more about the Convention's requirements for adoptable children.


How to Adopt

Because Colombia is a member of the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Colombia 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 for adoption.


NOTE: If you filed your I-600A with Colombia before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention does not apply to your adoption; it could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for orphan adoptions. Learn more.


  1. Choose an Accredited Adoption Service Provider
  2. Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt
  3. Be Matched with a Child
  4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption
  5. Adopt the Child in Colombia
  6. Bring your Child Home

To learn more, read about How to Adopt from Colombia

Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport


A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Colombia. 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 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. To learn more, read about Traveling Abroad in Colombia.


After Adoption

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

Colombian law does not currently have any post-adoption requirements.


What resources are available to assist families after the adoption?

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


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


Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons

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 Colombia

Carrera 45, No. 24B-27 Bogotá, Colombia Tel: 011-571-383-2795, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (EST) Email: IVBogota@state.gov, Attn Adoptions


Colombia's Central Authority

BIENESTAR FAMILIAR (ICBF) Grupo Nacional de Adopciones Avenida 68 # 64-01 Bogotá, Colombia Tel: 011-57-1-437 7630 - Ext. 3158 - 3157 Website: Bienestar Familiar (ICBF)


Embassy of Colombia

2118 Leroy Place, NW Washington, DC 20008 Tel: (202) 387-8338 Fax: (202) 232-8643 Email: embassyofcolombia@colombiaemb.org Website: Embassy of Colombia


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 Website: U.S. Department of State


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures, contact the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833).

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=colombia