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| − | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/dr-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/dr-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/dr-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/dr-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/dr_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/cam/dr_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Coat_of_arms_of_the_Dominican_Republic.svg/336px-Coat_of_arms_of_the_Dominican_Republic.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/26/Coat_of_arms_of_the_Dominican_Republic.svg/336px-Coat_of_arms_of_the_Dominican_Republic.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/62/Playa_Bavaro.JPG/800px-Playa_Bavaro.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/05/Carnival_002_4412.JPG/800px-Carnival_002_4412.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Carnival.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://download.shutterstock.com/gatekeeper/W3siZSI6MTM5NDUxNDc5NiwiYyI6Il9waG90b19zZXNzaW9uX2lkIiwiZGMiOiJpZGxfMTIyNjgzNDIwIiwicCI6InYxfDE4MzY1MDA2fDEyMjY4MzQyMCIsImsiOiJwaG90by8xMjI2ODM0MjAvaHVnZS5qcGciLCJtIjoiMSIsImQiOiJzaHV0dGVyc3RvY2stbWVkaWEifSwiSTZpLyszTU1wd1A0cDU4NGpZM1Q3NlVHZU1nIl0/shutterstock_122683420.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e9/National_Palace_Dominican_Republic1.jpg/800px-National_Palace_Dominican_Republic1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The National Palace.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e9/National_Palace_Dominican_Republic1.jpg/800px-National_Palace_Dominican_Republic1.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}} | + | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/55/DomRep_Bacardi_Insel.jpg/800px-DomRep_Bacardi_Insel.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Bacardi Beach.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}} |
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| − | {{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/55/DomRep_Bacardi_Insel.jpg/800px-DomRep_Bacardi_Insel.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''!!TITLE!!'''<BR/>!!COMMENT!!}}
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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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| − | The Dominican Republic 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 the Dominican Republic and the United States must meet the requirements of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
| + | =About Dominican Republic= |
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| | + | The Taino - indigenous inhabitants of Hispaniola prior to the arrival of the Europeans - divided the island into five chiefdoms and territories. Christopher COLUMBUS explored and claimed the island on his first voyage in 1492; it became a springboard for Spanish conquest of the Caribbean and the American mainland. In 1697, [[Spain]] recognized French dominion over the western third of the island, which in 1804 became [[Haiti]]. To learn more, please read [[About Dominican Republic]]. |
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| − | Dominican [[adoption]] law is governed by the Dominican Code of Fundamental Protection and Rights for Children and Adolescents, Law 136-03, Articles 82-169. The [[adoption]] process is comprised of an administrative and judicial phase. The Dominican authorities will not allow a child to exit the country until the [[adoption]] is complete under Dominican law. The Dominican Central Authority (CONANI) is responsible for the administrative phase of an international [[adoption]]. The Dominican judiciary in the Court of Children and Adolescents, responsible for the child's physical locality, completes the judicial phase.
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| | + | =Hague Convention Information= |
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| | + | The [[Dominican Republic]] 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]). To learn more please read about [[Dominican Republic 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].
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| | =Who Can Adopt= | | =Who Can Adopt= |
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| − | [[Adoption]] between the United States and the Dominican Republic is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to adopt from the Dominican Republic, the adopting family 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]. | + | [[Adoption]] between the United States and the [[Dominican Republic]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from the [[Dominican Republic]], the adopting family must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Dominican Republic]]. |
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| − | In addition to these U.S. requirements, the Dominican Republic also has the following requirements:
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| − | ==Residency==
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| − | Both prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must comply simultaneously with the period of cohabitation required by Law. If adopting a child under 12 years old, cohabitation shall be for at least 60 days. If adopting a child over 12 years of age, cohabitation shall be for at least 30 days.
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| − | ==Age of Adopting Parents==
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| − | The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be between 30 and 60 years of age and at least 15 years older than the child they wish to adopt.
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| − | ==Marriage==
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| − | Only heterosexual couples who have been married for five years or more are allowed to adopt from the Dominican Republic. Single individuals and unmarried couples are not permitted to adopt.
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| − | ==Income==
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| − | N/A
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| − | ==Other==
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| − | N/A
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| | =Who Can Be Adopted= | | =Who Can Be Adopted= |
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| − | Because the Dominican Republic is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from the Dominican Republic must meet the requirements of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention requires that the Dominican Republic attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to the Dominican Republic's requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for the adopting family to bring him or her back to the United States. | + | Because the [[Dominican Republic]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from the [[Dominican Republic]] must meet the requirements of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention requires that the [[Dominican Republic]] attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to the [[Dominican Republic]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for the adopting family 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. | | [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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| | =How to Adopt= | | =How to Adopt= |
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| − | ==Adoption Authority==
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| − | '''Dominican Republic [[Adoption]] Central Authority'''
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| − | Consejo Nacional para la Niñez y la Adolescencia [http://www.conani.gov.do/ CONANI]
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| | ==The Process== | | ==The Process== |
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| − | Because the Dominican Republic is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from the Dominican Republic must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention process is given below. The PAP (s) must complete these steps in the following order so that the [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements. | + | Because the [[Dominican Republic]] is party to the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from the [[Dominican Republic]] must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention's requirements. A brief summary of the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention process is given below. The PAP (s) must complete these steps in the following order so that the [[adoption]] meets all necessary legal requirements. |
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| − | '''NOTE:''' If a full and final [[adoption]] was completed in the Dominican Republic or filed an [[I-600A|I-600a]] with USCIS before April 1, 2008, the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention may not apply. The [[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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| | # Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]] | | # Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]] |
| − | # Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt | + | # Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]] |
| | # 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 |
| − | # Adopt the Child in the Dominican Republic | + | # [[Adopt]] the Child in the [[Dominican Republic]] |
| | # Bringing the Child Home | | # Bringing the Child Home |
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| | + | To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Dominican Republic]]. |
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| − | '''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:'''
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| − | The first step in adopting a child from the Dominican Republic is to select an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] (ASP) in the United States that is accredited. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide [[adoption]] services between the United States and the Dominican Republic. Note that an ASP will be obligatory for certain parts of the [[adoption]] process. [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/transition.php Learn more].
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| − | '''2.Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt:'''
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| − | After choosing an accredited [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]], PAPs 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) National Benefits Center. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Learn how]. Once the U.S. government determines that the PAPs are "eligible" and "suitable" to adopt, the representative ASP will forward this information to CONANI. CONANI will review the application to determine whether the PAPs are also eligible to adopt under Dominican Republic's law.
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| − | '''3.Be Matched with a Child:'''
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| − | If both the United States and the Dominican Republic determine that the PAPs are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], CONANI may provide the PAP 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.
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| − | If CONANI is satisfied with the documentation submitted by the PAPs, the PAPs are then placed on a waiting list for assignment of a child. If PAPs are applying for the [[adoption]] of a child known to them and prior coexistence can be demonstrated both apparent and uninterrupted, then the case continues through the rest of the process without joining the waiting list.
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| − | '''DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS:''' Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must meet the documentary requirements of Dominican law (see below). Once all the required documents are complete, the PAP(s) must submit the original along with two set of copies to the Department of Adoptions of CONANI.
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| − | ::::1. [[Adoption]] application letter signed by the PAPs.
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| − | ::::2. Special Power of Representation of the lawyer for the PAPs, if applicable.
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| − | ::::3. Photograph of the future adoptive family.
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| − | ::::4. Photocopies of the passports of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::5. Psychological evaluation report made to the PAPs.
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| − | ::::6. Social assessment report made to the PAPs.
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| − | ::::7. Birth certificates of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::8. Marriage certificate of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::9. Certificates of no criminal record of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::10. Medical certificates of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::11. Proof of economic solvency of each of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::12. [[Certification]] from an entity of a civic, community, or religious group on the social and moral suitability of the PAPs.
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| − | ::::13. Certificate of no objection from the PAPs children over 12 years of age (if applicable).
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| − | ::::14. [[Certification]] of suitability of the PAPs, issued by the USCIS (Approval of I-800A).
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| − | ::::15. [[Certification]] issued by the officially authorized agency ([[Adoption Service Provider]]) or authority of commitment for post-[[adoption]] monitoring.
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| − | After the match is suggested, the family will need to file an I-800 petition for the child with the National Benefits Center (NBC) of the USCIS. CONANI will then need confirmation that the NBC provisionally approved the I-800 petition for the [[matching]] process to be complete
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| − | '''THE WAITING LIST:'''
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| − | ::::::::1. After confirming that the documentation is complete, the file will be given a number and placed on the waiting list to be assigned as the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] of a child.
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| − | ::::::::2. When the PAPs turn comes, the Appropriations Committee makes the allocation of future adoptive family to the child.
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| − | ::::::::3. CONANI presents the medical and psychological records of the child to the PAPs for evaluation and then sends a copy of the file to the U.S. accredited agency for scrutiny and approval. This approval must be sent in writing to CONANI before starting the stage of socialization. (This is the process in which the PAPs spend time with the child).
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| − | ::::::::4. The PAPs must answer in writing to CONANI's [[Adoption]] Department Management either accepting or rejecting the child placement.
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| − | '''4.Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]:'''
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| − | After PAPs accept a match with a child, they then 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. Learn how.
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| − | Once approved, the child's file will be transferred electronically to the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. A staff member of the U.S. Embassy will contact the PAPs or their ASP to ask for a completed visa application and two photographs of the child. Once received, a Consular Officer will review the child's information and evaluate the child for possible visa ineligibilities.
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| − | If the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States, he or she will send a letter (an "Article 5 Letter") to CONANI. PAPs are cautioned not to adopt or obtain [[custody]] of a child before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter.
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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 the Dominican Republic:'''
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| − | '''''Remember: Before PAPs complete the [[adoption]] or obtain guardianship of a child in the Dominican Republic, they must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can PAPs proceed to finalize the [[adoption]] in the Dominican Republic.'''''
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| − | The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] in the Dominican Republic generally includes the following:
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| − | *'''Role of The Central Authority:''' After the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] receive and accept the referral of a child, CONANI reviews the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' file for required documents and, if satisfied, issues a Certificate of Suitability.
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| − | *'''Role of the Dominican Court of Minors (the Court):''' Dominican [[adoption]] law is governed by the Dominican Code of Fundamental Protection and Rights for Children and Adolescents, Law 136-03, Articles 111-167. The Dominican Court of Minors receives the formal, legal application for [[adoption]]. If the application is approved, the Court issues a Final Order of [[Adoption]].
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| − | *'''Role of [[Adoption]] Service Providers:''' The [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] (ASP) forwards the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' application to CONANI. The ASP also is responsible for obtaining further permissions from the U.S. and Dominican authorities as well as ensuring that the PAPs are fully versed in the remaining procedures to be completed.
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| − | *'''Time Frame:''' An [[adoption]] can be completed within nine to ten months of U.S. and Dominican requirements being met. It should be noted that many variables can affect the total time it takes to complete the intercountry [[adoption]] of a Dominican child.
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| − | *'''[[Adoption]] Application:''' The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] initiate contact with CONANI (via their attorney) and begin the process of locating a child who meets the definition of "Convention [[adoptee]]" under both Dominican and U.S. law.
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| − | *'''[[Adoption]] Fees:''' Attorney fees for the [[adoption]] of a Dominican child range from $5,000 to $8,000 USD. All [[adoption]]-related expenses, including court costs and document fees, are included in this estimate. These expenses should have been itemized in the fees and estimated expenses section of the [[adoption]] services contract. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php Learn more] about [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] responsibilities.
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| − | '''SOCIALIZATION:''' If the PAPs accept the child placement, then the socialization period begins. This is the first contact between the child and prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
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| − | ::::1. CONANI and the PAPs sign an act of consent
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| − | ::::2. CONANI issues a certificate of completion of the administrative phase of the [[adoption]] process and refers the case to the Court of Children and Adolescents territorial [[jurisdiction]]. This begins the judicial phase of the [[adoption]] process.
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| − | ::::3. Once the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Service has approved the PAPs (I-800 approval) CONANI can continue the process and start the period of co-habitation between the PAPs and the candidate for [[adoption]].
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| − | '''THE JUDICIAL PROCESS:'''
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| − | ::::::1. Requests from future [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are treated in strict chronological order, starting from the date of entry of the file to the [[Adoption]] Department.
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| − | ::::::2. All documents coming from abroad should be legalized or authenticated by the competent authority, and they should be translated into Spanish by a certified court interpreter.
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| − | ::::::3. Currently, the waiting time for records that are complete and on the waiting list for [[adoption]] is between two years to two and half years until being assigned to prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
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| − | '''NOTE:''' In Dominican Republic, the Law of Minors and Adolescents 136-03 states that only after completing an official [[adoption]] can a child be taken out of Dominican Republic for purposes of [[International Adoptions|international adoptions]]. Thus, PAPs must complete the full and final [[adoption]] in Dominican courts before the child can be taken to the United States. In essence, there is no such thing as an IH4/IR4 visa for Dominican Republic. While guardianship exists for domestic purposes, it does not exist for intercountry adoptions.
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| − | '''CONTACTS:''' For more information or guidance on the process of [[Adoption]] in Dominican Republic, please contact the Department of Adoptions CONANI (see at bottom of page). In the [[adoption]] services contract that PAPs sign at the beginning of the [[adoption]] process, the ASP shall itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to the [[adoption]] process.
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| − | '''NOTE:''' Additional documents may be requested. If PAPs 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. Bringing the Child Home'''
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| − | Now that the [[adoption]] is complete, there are a few more steps to take before heading home. Specifically, [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] need to apply for three documents for their child before he or she can travel to the United States:
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| − | :1. Birth Certificate
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| − | Dominican Law requires [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] to first apply for a new birth certificate for their child, so that they can later apply for a passport. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' names will be added to the new birth certificate. Please visit [http://www.jce.do/web/REGISTROCIVIL/Adopciones/tabid/89/Default.aspx this link] to learn more about applying for a birth certificate in the Dominican Republic.
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| − | ::2. Dominican Passport
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| − | An adopted child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a Passport from the Dominican Republic. Please visit [http://pasaportes.gov.do/2009/07/pasaportes-por-primera-vez-para-adultos-y-menores/ this link] to learn more about how to obtain a passport for a child in the Dominican Republic.
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| − | ::3. U.S. Immigrant Visa:
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| − | Before [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] come in for a final visa interview, they need to have obtained a new birth certificate and passport for their child as well as have completed the co-residency requirements under Dominican law. Once [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are ready, they may contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo at CONSULARSANTOD2@state.gov.
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| − | [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] will be given an open appointment via email to come to the Consular Section at their convenience during normal working hours to complete the visa interview. However, the visa cannot be issued until a U.S. Embassy designated panel physician completes a medical examination of the child. Once the final medical report is obtained from the panel physician, the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and the child may come in with an open appointment letter for the visa interview.
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| − | On the day of the interview, [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will present their appointment letter to the guards outside the Consular Section who will direct them inside. Once inside, [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may proceed to Window 15 to inquire about an [[adoption]] visa interview for the day. The Embassy employee will ask for the SDO case number and the child's name in order to locate the file. The employee may ask for some additional documentation, including the final medical report, and payment of the Immigrant Visa Interview Fee at the Cashier. If the child is over 14 years of age, then s/he will be sent to be fingerprinted. Otherwise, after taking in all necessary documents, [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will be given a unique number that will be called when it is time for the interview. Until the number is called, the U.S. Embassy requests that families have a seat in the waiting area.
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| − | At the interview, the officer may ask questions regarding the entire [[adoption]] process on both the U.S. and Dominican procedures. If there are any questions, recommendations, suggestions, etc. adoptive families are free to provide these to the officer at this time. Assuming that everything is fine, the officer will approve the visa, finally approve the I-800 form, and send the file for printing the visa and the Hague [[Adoption Certificate]]. Again, families are asked to wait in the waiting area again for the visa to be prepared and printed.
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| − | Once printed, families will again be called to Window 15 by name or by the case number and will be given the child's passport with a visa inside and a manila envelope known as the Visa Packet. DO NOT OPEN THIS PACKET, as it is for the U.S. immigration officials to open once the family enters the United States. The family is now free to travel home.
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| − | '''TWO ITEMS TO REMEMBER:'''
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| − | ::::::1. DO NOT OPEN THE PACKET AT ANY TIME,
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| − | ::::::2. Please allow enough time to go through secondary at the first Port of Entry into the United States. The family will be asked to go into secondary for the Immigration Officer to open the packet and process the documents inside. If families do not allow sufficient time for this, they may miss onward travel plans.
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| − | '''Child Citizenship Act'''
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| − | '''''For adoptions finalized abroad:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when he or she enters the United States as lawful permanent residents.
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| − | '''''For adoptions finalized in the United States:''''' The Child Citizenship Act of 2000 allows your new child to acquire American citizenship automatically when the court in the United States issues the final [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]].
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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 a U.S. Passport''' | | '''Applying for a U.S. Passport''' |
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| − | A valid U.S. passport is required for American citizens to enter and leave the Dominican Republic. 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 [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/passports.html Passport Application Wizard] will help the applicant determine which passport form is needed, complete the form online, estimate the payment, and generate the form to print-all in one place. | + | A valid U.S. passport is required for American citizens to enter and leave the [[Dominican Republic]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more please read [[Traveling Abroad in Dominican Republic]]. |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Obtaining a Visa'''
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| − | | + | |
| − | In addition to a U.S. passport, the family will also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows an individual to visit. Where required, visas are attached to the passport and allow entry into a foreign nation. To find information about obtaining a visa for the Dominican Republic, see the Department of State's [http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/country.html Country Specific Information].
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Staying Safe on Your Trip'''
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| − | | + | |
| − | Before traveling, it is 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.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Staying in Touch on Your Trip'''
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| − | When traveling during the [[adoption]] process, we encourage United States Citizens to register their trip with the Department of State. Travel registration makes it possible to contact the individual if necessary. Whether there's a family emergency in the United States, or a crisis in the Dominican Republic, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching a United States Citizen.
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| − | | + | |
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| − | Registration is free and can be done [https://step.state.gov/step/ online].
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| | =After Adoption= | | =After Adoption= |
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| − | '''What does the Dominican Republic require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' | + | '''What does the [[Dominican Republic]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?''' |
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| | '''POST-[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] / POST-PLACEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS''' | | '''POST-[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] / POST-PLACEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS''' |
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| − | CONANI requires post [[adoption]] reports to be submitted by the ASP for 5 years after the child has entered the United States; the first report must be submitted 6 months after the child entered the US, the second report after the first year, then once a year for the next 5 years. The reports are to be submitted to the closest Embassy or Consulate of the Dominican Republic to the residence of the child in the United States. | + | CONANI requires post [[adoption]] reports to be submitted by the ASP for 5 years after the child has entered the United States; the first report must be submitted 6 months after the child entered the US, the second report after the first year, then once a year for the next 5 years. The reports are to be submitted to the closest Embassy or Consulate of the [[Dominican Republic]] to the residence of the child in the United States. |
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| − | [[Adoptive Parent|Adoptive parent]] are reminded that they are required by law and international treaty to complete all post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements in a timely manner. The ASP is required to assist families as well. | + | [[Adoptive Parent|Adoptive parent]] are reminded that they are required by law and [[international]] treaty to complete all post-[[adoption]] reporting requirements in a timely manner. The ASP is required to assist families as well. |
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| − | ==Contact Information==
| + | =Contact Information= |
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| − | '''U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic'''
| + | To learn more about contact info for [[adoption]] from this country please read [[Contact Information from Dominican Republic]]. |
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| + | |
| − | IV Unit (Adoptions)
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| − | Unit 3470, Box 531
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| − | APO AA 34041-0531
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | The mailing address if you use a private delivery service is:
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Embassy of the United States of America'''
| + | |
| − | César Nicolás Penson 85A esq. Leopoldo Navarro
| + | |
| − | Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Dominican Republic's Central Authority'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | Consejo Nacional para la Niñez y la Adolescencia (CONANI)
| + | |
| − | Av. Máximo Gómez esq. República de [[Paraguay]] # 154
| + | |
| − | Ensanche La Fe (Frente a la Bomba Esso)
| + | |
| − | Santo Domingo, República Dominicana
| + | |
| − | Tel: 809-567-2233 (Office of Adoptions, ext. 1157)
| + | |
| − | Email: adopciones@conani.gov.do
| + | |
| − | Website: [www.conani.gov.do CONANI]
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Embassy of the Dominican Republic'''
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | 1715 22nd Street, N.W.
| + | |
| − | [[Washington]], D.C. 20008 | + | |
| − | Tel: (202) 332-6280
| + | |
| − | Fax: (202) 265-8057
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Consulate of the Dominican Republic'''
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| − | | + | |
| − | 1501 New Broadway Ave., Suite 410
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| − | [[New York]], NY 10036
| + | |
| − | Tel: (212) 768-2480
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| − | Fax: (212) 768-2677
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| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''NOTE:''' the Dominican Republic also has consulates in Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston, [[New York]], and Puerto Rico.
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''Office of Children's Issues'''
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| − |
| + | |
| − | 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
| + | |
| − | Website: [http://adoption.state.gov U.S. Department of State]
| + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | | + | |
| − | '''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
| + | |
| − |
| + | |
| − | For questions about general immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
| + | |
| − | 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
| + | |
| | | | |
| − | For questions about the I-800A or I-800 petition process, call the National Benefits Center
| |
| − | Toll free (877) 424-8374; Toll (816) 251-2770
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| − | E-mail: NBC.Hague@dhs.gov
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| | | | |
| | ==SOURCE== | | ==SOURCE== |
| | | | |
| − | '''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=dominican_republic] | + | '''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs. U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=dominican_republic |
| | | | |
| | [[Category: International Adoption]] | | [[Category: International Adoption]] |
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.
The Taino - indigenous inhabitants of Hispaniola prior to the arrival of the Europeans - divided the island into five chiefdoms and territories. Christopher COLUMBUS explored and claimed the island on his first voyage in 1492; it became a springboard for Spanish conquest of the Caribbean and the American mainland. In 1697, Spain recognized French dominion over the western third of the island, which in 1804 became Haiti. To learn more, please read About Dominican Republic.
