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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Panama"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/pm-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Panama.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/pm-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/pm-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Panama.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/pm-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/cam/pm_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Panama.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/cam/pm_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/89/Coat_of_Arms_of_Panama.svg/543px-Coat_of_Arms_of_Panama.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms of Panama.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/89/Coat_of_Arms_of_Panama.svg/543px-Coat_of_Arms_of_Panama.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8001/7409385142_92fb91a798.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Panamanian children.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
 
{{#eimage:https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8001/7409385142_92fb91a798.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Panamanian children.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ef/Arco_chato.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Santo Domingo Church in Panama.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ef/Arco_chato.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Santo Domingo Church.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b2/Architecture_in_Panama_City.jpg/600px-Architecture_in_Panama_City.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Old Quarter of Panama City.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b2/Architecture_in_Panama_City.jpg/600px-Architecture_in_Panama_City.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The Old Quarter of [[Panama]] City.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b8/Gatun_lock_gate.JPG/450px-Gatun_lock_gate.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Mitre type lock gates at Gatun Lock, Panama Canal, Panama.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b8/Gatun_lock_gate.JPG/450px-Gatun_lock_gate.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Mitre type lock gates at Gatun Lock, [[Panama]] Canal.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bb/VistaBoquete.jpg/800px-VistaBoquete.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Chiriquí, Panamá.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bb/VistaBoquete.jpg/800px-VistaBoquete.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Chiriquí.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d8/Panama_Embera_0617.jpg/800px-Panama_Embera_0617.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Embera-Wounaan women dressed for a dance.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d8/Panama_Embera_0617.jpg/800px-Panama_Embera_0617.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Embera-Wounaan women dressed for a dance.'''<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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=Hague Convention Information=
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
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Panama 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 intercountry adoptions between Panama and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
 
  
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=About Panama=
  
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In order for an adoption application to meet the requirements of the Hague, a U.S. consular officer must review the case file and issue an "Article 5 Letter" to the Panamanian Central Authority before an adoption or grant of [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] takes place. Therefore, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are cautioned to carefully follow in order the steps outlined in the "How to [[Adopt]]" Section below.
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Explored and settled by the Spanish in the 16th century, [[Panama]] broke with [[Spain]] in 1821 and joined a union of [[Colombia]], [[Ecuador]], and [[Venezuela]] - named the Republic of Gran [[Colombia]]. When the latter dissolved in 1830, [[Panama]] remained part of [[Colombia]]. With US backing, [[Panama]] seceded from [[Colombia]] in 1903 and promptly signed a treaty with the US allowing for the construction of a canal and US sovereignty over a strip of land on either side of the structure (the [[Panama]] Canal Zone). To learn more please read [[About Panama]].  
  
  
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Currently, Panamanian laws also allow U.S. citizens who meet required eligibility requirements under Panamanian law to [[adopt]] under a "National" adoption process, which is a different process from the Hague intercountry process. Please note that any child [[adopted]] locally (i.e. outside the Hague Adoption Convention process described below) is not immediately eligible for an immigrant visa. Instead, the child must qualify for an immigrant visa as the child of the U.S. Citizen (IR-2). This visa category requires that the U.S. citizen [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] fulfill a two year period of legal and physical [[custody]] in Panama prior to filing the petition for the visa to the United States. Additional information is available from [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/other-adoption-related-immigration U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services].
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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[[Panama]] 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 intercountry adoptions between [[Panama]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about [[Panama and the Hague Convention]].
  
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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].
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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Adoption between the United States and Panama is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from Panama, you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn more].  
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Panama]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Panama]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn more]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Panama]].
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Panama also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
 
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==Residency==
 
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Panamanian courts allow U.S. citizens to [[adopt]], however Panamanian citizens are given preference. There are no official residency requirements for adoption in Panama.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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There must be an age difference of at least 18 years and no more than 45 years between the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] and the child.
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Prospective adoptive couples must have been married for at least two years.
 
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==Income==
 
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There is no minimum income requirement for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] in Panama.
 
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==Other==
 
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No family line adoptions are allowed, meaning grandparents may not [[adopt]] their grandchildren and siblings may not [[adopt]] their minor siblings.  Same sex couples are not permitted to [[adopt]] children.
 
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Most adoptions of Panamanian children by U.S. parents take place in Panama. Less frequently, Panamanian courts may grant the U.S. citizens guardianship, allowing for adoption following the family's return to the United States. There are no legal impediments to granting guardianship, but the Panamanian court [[system]] generally discourages this practice.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Panama is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Panama must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. In accordance with the Convention, the Central Authority of Panama determines whether possibilities for placement of the child in Panama have been given due consideration. In addition to Panama'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 [[Panama]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Panama]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. In accordance with the Convention, the Central Authority of [[Panama]] determines whether possibilities for placement of the child in [[Panama]] have been given due consideration. In addition to [[Panama]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Panama]].
  
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'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
 
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Under Panamanian adoption law, [[adopted]] children do not need to be orphans, though their natural parent(s) must have legally abandoned them and/or have had their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] terminated by a court.
 
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'''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:''' Only children who have been declared adoptable by Panama's judicial [[system]] can be [[adopted]]; [[relinquishment]] is contemplated during the Panamanian judicial process.
 
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'''Sibling Requirements:''' Panamanian courts generally do not separate siblings. If a prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] would like to [[adopt]] one child, they must [[adopt]] the child's siblings.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Panama's Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Panama]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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Panama's central adoption authority under the Hague Adoption Convention is the Secretaría Nacional de Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF).  
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[[Panama]]'s central [[adoption]] authority under the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention is the Secretaría Nacional de Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF).  
  
  
 
===The Process===
 
===The Process===
  
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Because Panama is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Panama must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.
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Because [[Panama]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Panama]] must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention [[adoption]] process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements.
  
  
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A]] with Panama before April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption. Your adoption could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.  [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
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'''NOTE:''' If you filed your [[I-600A]] with [[Panama]] before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply to your [[adoption]]. Your [[adoption]] could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions.  [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
  
  
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# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Be Matched with a Child  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in Panama  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Panama]]
 
# Bring your Child Home  
 
# Bring your Child Home  
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Panama]].
  
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:''' 
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Panama is to select an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that has been accredited. Because Panama is a Convention country, adoption services must be provided by an accredited agency, temporarily accredited agency, approved person, supervised provider, or exempted provider. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide adoption services between the United States and Panama. In addition, the [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] must also be authorized by the Panamanian Central Authority SENNIAF to provide services in Panama.
 
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Parents interested in adopting from Panama should contact SENNIAF for up-to-date information prior to initiating a new adoption process. As of December 2010, the following U.S. Hague accredited adoption service providers have also been accredited in Panama: A Helping Hand [[Adoption Agency]] in Lexington, KY; Families Thru [[International Adoption]], Inc., in Evansville, IN; Faith International Adoptions in Tacoma, WA; and Hands Across the Water in Ann Arbor, MI.  [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are advised to fully research any [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] or facilitator they plan to use for adoption services. For U.S.-based agencies, it is suggested that prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] contact the Better Business Bureau and/or the licensing authority in the U.S. State where the agency is located or licensed.
 
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]:'''
 
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After you choose an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]], you apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form I-800A) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn how].
 
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Once the U.S. Government determines that you are "eligible" and "suitable" to [[adopt]], you or your agency will forward your information to the adoption authority in Panama. Panama's adoption authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to [[adopt]] under Panama's law.
 
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
 
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If both the United States and Panama determine that you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry adoption, the central adoption authority in Panama may provide you with a referral for a child, through your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of the particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
 
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'''4. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for Adoption:'''
 
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After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval to [[adopt]] that particular child (Form I-800). USCIS will determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be [[adopted]] and enter the United States. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn how].
 
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After this, your [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] or you will submit a visa application for the child to a Consular Officer at the U.S. Embassy. The Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities. If the Consular Officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he/she will notify Panama's adoption authority via an Article 5 letter. For Convention country adoptions, prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) may not proceed with the adoption or obtain [[custody]] for the purpose of adoption until this takes place.
 
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'''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the adoption process.'''''
 
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'''5. [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in-country:'''
 
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'''''Remember: Before you [[adopt]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of) a child in Panama, you must have completed the above four steps. In addition, Panama's judicial [[system]] usually requires three months of cohabitation by [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the child to ensure the match is a good one before the adoption can be finalized. Only after completing these steps can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of [[custody]] for the purposes of adoption in Panama.'''''
 
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The process for finalizing the adoption (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Panama generally includes the following: ## ROLE OF THE ADOPTION AUTHORITY: SENNIAF should be the first point of contact for parents interested in adopting a child in Panama. They offer the most up-to-date guidance as to the steps required, approved adoption service providers, and the final match of a child.
 
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*'''ROLE OF THE COURT:''' The Juzgado de la Niñez y Adolescencia (Children and Minors' Court) has [[jurisdiction]] over adoption cases of abandoned children, wards of the court (including children whose parents' [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] have been terminated by the court), and orphans. There are 12 district courts throughout the provinces in Panama. The courts generally require proof from the U.S. government, such as the I-800 provisional approval notification provided on an I-797 approval form, that the parent(s) are eligible for adoption and the child has been approved for adoption, as well as proof of cohabitation totaling between one and three months.
 
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*'''TIME FRAME:''' Adoptions in Panama typically take 18-24 months.
 
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*'''ADOPTION APPLICATION:''' Usually, the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]](s) and their attorney will communicate with the judge's staff until the demanda is ready for review. If the judge approves the demanda, the judge will forward the documents to the "Registro Civil de Panama" (Civil Register). The adoption is not official until it is published in the Civil Register and the judge has signed a final decree.
 
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*'''ADOPTION FEES:''' The U.S. Embassy in Panama discourages the payment of any fees that are not properly receipted. "Donations" or "expediting" fees, which may be requested from prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], have the appearance of "buying" a baby and put all future adoptions in Panama at risk.  Attorney fees for an adoption in Panama range from $1,000 to $2,500. Government processing fees vary on a case by case basis. In the adoption services contract that you sign at the beginning of the adoption process, your agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to your adoption process.
 
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:''' For intercountry adoptions, the Government of Panama requires the below listed documents. Spanish translations of English documents are required. It is advisable to obtain several authenticated copies of the same document in case extra copies are requested or required.
 
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::::1.  Birth certificate of each [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]];
 
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::::2.  Marriage certificate of each [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]], and death or divorce certificate of prior spouse(s) if either parent was previously married;
 
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::::3.  Apostiled or certified copy of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' passports;
 
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::::4.  Health certificate certifying good mental and physical health of each parent (the Panamanian authorities will accept a health certificate from the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' doctor in the U.S.);
 
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::::5.  Certificate of good conduct from local police in [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' state of residence (the I-800A does not fulfill this requirement.);
 
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::::6.  Letter from employer(s) stating position and current salary;
 
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::::8.  Two reference letters attesting to character, financial situation, and living conditions of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]];
 
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::::9.  Sociological home study report conducted by U.S. [[Social Worker|social worker]] or U.S.-certified investigative agency approved by the Panamanian courts (home studies conducted in the U.S. can be used if approved by the Panamanian courts.); and
 
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::::10. Psychological evaluation conducted by authorized medical officer in Panama or a U.S.-certified medical official approved by the Panamanian courts.  '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. If you are asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic, we can help. [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/checklist.html Learn how].
 
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'''6. Bring Your Child Home'''
 
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Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained [[Legal Custody|legal custody]] of the child), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
 
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
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You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate (short-form, as copia integra are not issued in adoption cases) for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate. It usually takes at least five business days to acquire one. It can be acquired from the Tribunal Electoral de Panama, Dirección Nacional de Registro Civil (Civil Registry), Second floor, located on Calle 33 between Avenida [[Cuba]] and Avenida Perú in Panama City
 
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::2. Panama Passport
 
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Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Panama. Information on this process is available at this [http://www.panamatramita.gob.pa/guiaGob_det.php?idInst=PAS website].
 
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::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa
 
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After you obtain the new birth certificate and Panamanian passport for your child, you also need to apply for an U.S. visa from the United States Embassy for your child. After the adoption (or [[custody]] for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S Embassy for final review and approval of the child's I-800 petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the Consular Officer must be provided the "Panel Physician's" medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage.
 
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'''Adopting Under Local Laws'''  Some U.S. citizens who meet eligibility requirements under Panamian law may also be permitted to proceed with a "National" adoption, which is different from a Hague Convention adoption. A child [[adopted]] under a National adoption process is not immediately eligible to travel to the U.S. The type of visa you would seek is an IR-2, which requires two years of legal and physical [[custody]] of the child; this physical cohabitation must occur in the country of origin of the child. To pursue this avenue, you must file an I-130 with the Department of Homeland Security, [http://www.uscis.gov/family/family-us-citizens/children/bringing-children-sons-and-daughters-live-united-states-permanent-residents USCIS].
 
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If your adoption in Panama is nearly or already finalized, but you did not start the process with an [[I-600A]] filed before April 1, 2008, which has been extended and is still valid, you have not met the requirements necessary to obtain an adoption visa under either pre-Hague adoption visa processing or Hague Convention adoption visa processing. However, the IR-2 visa remains a path to bring your [[adopted]] child to the United States.
 
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Please visit the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_1310.html website] for more information regarding IR-2 visas and other immigrant visa categories.
 
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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 a lawful permanent resident (with an immigrant visa).
 
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'''''For adoptions to be finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 typically allows your child to 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].
 
  
 
=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 Panama. 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 [[Panama]]. 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 Panama]].
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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 Panama, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
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'''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
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Before you travel, it's always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The State Department is a good place to start.  The Department of State provides [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information] for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.  
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'''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
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When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage you to register your trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in Panama, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Panama'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Panama]]'''
  
 
Clayton Building #783  
 
Clayton Building #783  
 
Ave. Demetrio B. Lakas
 
Ave. Demetrio B. Lakas
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Panama City, Republic of Panama
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[[Panama]] City, Republic of [[Panama]]
 
Panama-Visas@state.gov  
 
Panama-Visas@state.gov  
  
  
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'''Panama's Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Panama]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
Secretaria Nacional de la Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF)  
 
Secretaria Nacional de la Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF)  
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Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro
 
Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro
 
Segundo Piso
 
Segundo Piso
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Panama City, Panama
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[[Panama]] City, [[Panama]]
 
Tel: 500-6079  
 
Tel: 500-6079  
 
Fax: 500-6075  
 
Fax: 500-6075  
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'''Embassy of Panama'''
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'''Embassy of [[Panama]]'''
 
   
 
   
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Embassy of the Republic of Panama  
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Embassy of the Republic of [[Panama]]
 
2862 McGill Terr., NW  
 
2862 McGill Terr., NW  
 
[[Washington]] , DC 20008  
 
[[Washington]] , DC 20008  
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Panama also has consulates in: Mobile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta, Honolulu, Chicago, New Orleans, [[New York]], Cleveland, Philadelphia, Houston, and San Juan.
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[[Panama]] also has consulates in: Mobile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta, Honolulu, Chicago, New Orleans, [[New York]], Cleveland, Philadelphia, Houston, and San Juan.
  
  

Revision as of 06:10, 10 March 2015

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

The official coat of arms.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Panamanian children.
Source: flickr.com.

Santo Domingo Church.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The Old Quarter of City.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Mitre type lock gates at Gatun Lock, Canal.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Chiriquí.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Embera-Wounaan women dressed for a dance.
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.


About Panama

Explored and settled by the Spanish in the 16th century, Panama broke with Spain in 1821 and joined a union of Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela - named the Republic of Gran Colombia. When the latter dissolved in 1830, Panama remained part of Colombia. With US backing, Panama seceded from Colombia in 1903 and promptly signed a treaty with the US allowing for the construction of a canal and US sovereignty over a strip of land on either side of the structure (the Panama Canal Zone). To learn more please read About Panama.


Hague Convention Information

Panama is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, all intercountry adoptions between Panama and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about Panama and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Panama is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Panama, 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. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Panama.


Who Can Be Adopted

Because Panama is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Panama must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. In accordance with the Convention, the Central Authority of Panama determines whether possibilities for placement of the child in Panama have been given due consideration. In addition to Panama's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention adoptee for you to bring him or her back to the United States. To learn more please read about Who Can Be Adopted from Panama.


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Panama's Adoption Authority

Panama's central adoption authority under the Hague Adoption Convention is the Secretaría Nacional de Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF).


The Process

Because Panama is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Panama must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements.


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


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

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


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

Adoption Services Support Group for Adopting Persons


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Panama

Clayton Building #783 Ave. Demetrio B. Lakas Panama City, Republic of Panama Panama-Visas@state.gov


Panama's Adoption Authority

Secretaria Nacional de la Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia (SENNIAF) Plaza Edison Avenida Ricardo J. Alfaro Segundo Piso Panama City, Panama Tel: 500-6079 Fax: 500-6075 Internet: Panama's Adoption Authority


Embassy of Panama

Embassy of the Republic of Panama 2862 McGill Terr., NW Washington , DC 20008 Tel: 202-511-3800 Fax: 202-483-8413


Panama also has consulates in: Mobile, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta, Honolulu, Chicago, New Orleans, New York, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Houston, and San Juan.


Office of Children's Issues

U.S. Department of State CA/OCS/CI SA-17, 9th Floor Washington, DC 20522-1709 Tel: 1-888-407-4747 E-mail: AskCI@state.gov Internet: U.S. Department of State


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)

1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)


SOURCE

Intercountry Adoption, Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information[1]