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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Iceland"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/ic-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/ic-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/ic-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/ic-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/eur/ic_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/eur/ic_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/90/Coat_of_arms_of_Iceland.svg/567px-Coat_of_arms_of_Iceland.svg.png|410x579px|thumb|'''The official coat of arms for Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/90/Coat_of_arms_of_Iceland.svg/567px-Coat_of_arms_of_Iceland.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/e/e5/Iceland2008-Sudureyri.JPG/800px-Iceland2008-Sudureyri.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Sudureyri, Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e5/Iceland2008-Sudureyri.JPG/800px-Iceland2008-Sudureyri.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Sudureyri.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/34/Reykjavik_rooftops.jpg/800px-Reykjavik_rooftops.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Colorful rooftops in Reykjavik, Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/34/Reykjavik_rooftops.jpg/800px-Reykjavik_rooftops.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Colorful rooftops in Reykjavik.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d9/Grassodenh%C3%A4user.jpg/800px-Grassodenh%C3%A4user.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Turf-roofed house in Iceland (Skógar).'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d9/Grassodenh%C3%A4user.jpg/800px-Grassodenh%C3%A4user.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Turf-roofed house in (Skógar).'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/af/Eyjafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur.jpeg/799px-Eyjafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur.jpeg|410x579px|thumb|'''Eyjafjörður, the longest fjord in Iceland.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/af/Eyjafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur.jpeg/799px-Eyjafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur.jpeg|410x579px|thumb|'''Eyjafjörður, the longest fjord in [[Iceland]].'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0f/Islande_-_Rekjavik_du_haut_de_la_cath%C3%A9drale.JPG/800px-Islande_-_Rekjavik_du_haut_de_la_cath%C3%A9drale.JPG|410x579px|thumb|'''Central Rekjavik.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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Iceland 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 Iceland and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention.
 
  
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Iceland is not considered a country of origin in [[Inter-Country Adoption|inter-country adoption]]. While legally possible, [[Inter-Country Adoption|inter-country adoption]] of an Icelandic [[orphan]] by foreigners is unlikely. No Icelandic orphans have received U.S. immigrant visas in the past five fiscal years. The information provided is intended primarily to assist in extremely rare [[adoption]] cases from Iceland, including adoptions of Icelandic children by relatives in the United States, as well as adoptions from third countries by Americans living in Iceland.
+
'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
−
=Who Can Adopt=
+
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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[[Adoption]] between the United States and Iceland is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to adopt from Iceland, 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].
 
  
 +
=About Iceland=
  
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Iceland also has the following requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
+
Settled by Norwegian and Celtic (Scottish and Irish) immigrants during the late 9th and 10th centuries A.D., [[Iceland]] boasts the world's oldest functioning legislative assembly, the Althing, established in 930.  For more information please read [[About Iceland]].
  
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==Residency==
 
  
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be residents of Iceland or "have a special connection to the country" to be allowed to adopt children in Iceland.
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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==Age of Adopting Parents and Marriage==
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[[Iceland]] 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 [[Iceland]] and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about [[Iceland and the Hague Convention]].
  
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Applicants must be at least 25 years old, but not more than 45 years old.  Married couples or a male and a female that have lived together in a proxy marriage (cohabitation registered with the National Registry) for at least 5 years can adopt together.  One of the married individuals or a male/female in a proxy marriage can adopt the partner's child or foster child with the partner's permission.  One of the married individuals or a male/female in a proxy marriage can adopt a child without the partner's permission if the partner has vanished or his/her mental state would impede the [[adoption]] process.  Individuals can adopt children in special circumstances and if the [[Adoption Benefits|adoption benefits]] the welfare of the child.  Same-sex couples can adopt (since 2006) as long as they fulfill all other requirements, such as length of marriage/ proxy marriage, age, health and no criminal record.
 
  
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==Income==
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=Who Can Adopt=
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Financially able to support a family.
+
  
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==Other==
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[[Adoption]] between the United States and [[Iceland]] is governed by the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention. Therefore to [[adopt]] from [[Iceland]], you must first be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Iceland]].
  
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Applicants must be in good mental and physical state and must not have a criminal record.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Because Iceland is party to The Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from Iceland must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that Iceland attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to Iceland'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 [[Iceland]] is party to The Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, children from [[Iceland]] must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. For example, the Convention requires that [[Iceland]] attempt to place a child with a family in-country before determining that a child is eligible for intercountry [[adoption]]. In addition to [[Iceland]]'s requirements, a child must meet the definition of a Convention [[adoptee]] for you to bring him or her back to the United States.
 +
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Iceland's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Iceland]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
The Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs - The National Commissioner on Adoptions.  
 
The Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs - The National Commissioner on Adoptions.  
−
 
  
 
==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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Because Iceland is party to The Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from Iceland 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.
+
Because [[Iceland]] is party to The Hague [[Adoption]] Convention, adopting from [[Iceland]] 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|I-600a]] with Iceland 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 .  
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'''NOTE:'''  If you filed your [[I-600A|I-600a]] with [[Iceland]] 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.  [https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption/Adoption-Process/how-to-adopt/hague-transition-cases.html Learn more].  
  
  
 
# Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]  
 
# Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]  
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# Apply to be Found Eligible to Adopt  
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# 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  
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# Adopt the Child in Iceland  
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Iceland]]
 
# Bring your Child Home  
 
# Bring your Child Home  
  
 +
To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Iceland]].
  
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'''1. Choose an Accredited [[Adoption Service Provider]]:''' 
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=Traveling Abroad=
  
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The first step in adopting a child from Iceland is to select an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that has been accredited. Only these agencies and attorneys can provide [[adoption]] services between the United States and Iceland. Learn more.  
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
 +
A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Iceland]]. 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 Iceland]].
  
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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). Learn how.
 
  
 +
=After Adoption=
  
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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 Iceland. Iceland's [[adoption]] authority will review your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Iceland's law.  
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[[Iceland]] does not have any post-[[adoption]] or post-placement reporting requirements at this time.
  
  
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
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'''What resources are available to assist families after the [[adoption]]?'''
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If both the United States and Iceland determine that you are eligible to adopt, and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Iceland 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.
+
  
 +
Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]]. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family -- whether it's another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
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'''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. Learn how.
 
  
 +
Here are some good places to start your support group search:
  
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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. 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/she will notify the Iceland's [[adoption]] authority (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.
 
  
 +
[https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_postadoption.cfm Child Welfare Information Gateway]
  
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'''''Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about the immigrant visa later in the [[adoption]] process.''''' 
 
  
 +
'''NOTE:''' Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
  
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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 Iceland, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the [[adoption]] or grant of [[custody]] for the purposes of [[adoption]] in Iceland.'''''
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=Contact Information=
  
 +
'''U.S. Embassy in [[Iceland]]'''
 +
 +
Laufasvegur 21,
 +
101 Reykjavik, [[Iceland]]
 +
Tel: (354) 562-9100
 +
E-mail: reykjavikconsular@state.gov
  
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Iceland generally includes the following:
 
  
 +
'''[[Iceland]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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*'''[[Adoption|ADOPTION]] APPLICATION AND ROLE OF [[Adoption|ADOPTION]] AUTHORITY:''' The first step to adopt a child is to apply for a pre-approval from The National Commissioner on Adoptions. Applicants can get the application forms  on the Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs website . Then they return the forms to "slensk Ættleiðing (Icelandic [[Adoption]] Society -IAS) and the agency will send the forms to The National commissioner on adoptions and attach necessary documents. Please see the Required Documents section below.  The application with attached documents is sent to The National Commissioner on Adoptions which then asks the social services and the child protection agency in the applicants' home town to give a report about the applicant's home and family environment. An employee from social services will contact the applicant and do a [[Home Study|home study]]. This report is sent to the ministry which will take the decision based on this report. If the pre-approval is granted, then it is sent in English to IAS and the applicant gets a copy. The approval notice, which is valid for two years, will state that the applicant is permitted to adopt a child from a specific third country.
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The Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs  
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*'''ROLE OF [[Adoption Agencies|ADOPTION AGENCIES]]:'''  "slensk Ættleiðing (Icelandic [[Adoption]] Society) is the only [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] in Iceland. Please see their website (only in Icelandic): http://www.isadopt.is
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Arnarhvall on Lindargata
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*'''TIME FRAME:'''  The pre-approval process, described below, will take three to six months. The length of time to adopt in a third country will depend on the child's country of origin.
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150 Reykjavik, [[Iceland]]  
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*'''DOCUMENTS REQUIRED:''' Documents required include the following:
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Tel: 011-354-560-9010
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::::1. Application for pre-approval, Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs - The National Commissioner on Adoptions. Skuggasundi, 150 Reykjavík. Telephone: 354-545-9000. Opening hours: Mon-Fri. 8:30 - 16.00;
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Fax: 011-354-552-7340
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::::2. Birth certificate from applicant;
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E-mail: postur@dkm.stjr.is  
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::::3. Information about applicant on this form. (1. Re Application For Permission to Adopt. 2. Re Application for Pre-Approval)
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::::4. Marriage certificate or certificate that proves proxy marriage of applicant;
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::::5. Certificate from the National Registry to show how long applicants have been living together. Marriage must have lasted at least three years and Proxy Marriage at least five years. The certificate can be sought at the National Registry in Iceland, Borgartúni 21a, 104 Reykjavík. Telephone: 354-569-2900. Business hours: Mon-Fri. 8:30-16:00;
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::::6. Police certificates from countries prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] resided for 3 months after the age of 16;
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::::7. Information about the applicant's health on the Information on Health Re application for Pre-Approval to Adopt a Child form;
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::::8. Doctors certificate for the adopting parent. Here you can get the Medical Certificate for Prospective [[Adoption]] Parent form, needs to be filled out by a doctor and the applicant;
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::::9. Certified copy of tax returns for the last two years.
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The documents referenced above can be sought in Icelandic at http://www.domsmalaraduneyti.is/raduneyti/starfssvid/aettleidingar.
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'''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. Learn how.
 
  
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'''Embassy of [[Iceland]]'''
 +
 +
1156 15 th Street N.W., Suite 1200
 +
[[Washington]], D.C. 20005-1704
 +
Tel.: (202) 265 6653
 +
E-mail: icemb.wash@mfa.is
 +
Internet: [http://www.iceland.org/us Embassy of Iceland]
 +
  
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'''6.Bring Your Child Home'''
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[[Iceland]] also has a Consulate General in [[New York]] and honorary consulates around the United States.
  
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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:
 
  
 +
'''Office of Children's Issues'''
  
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::1. Birth Certificate
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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
 +
Internet: [http://adoption.state.gov U.S. Department of State]
  
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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.  To obtain a new birth certificate for the adopted child, please contact Iceland's national Registry:
 
  
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'''The National Registry (Thjodskra)'''
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'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
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Borgartun 24,
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105 Reykjavik,
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For questions about immigration procedures, call the National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
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Iceland.
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Phone #354-569-2900,
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Opening hours are from 8:30 - 16:00
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Phone hours from 9:00 - 16:00,
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The fee is Icelandic kronur 900,00
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+
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::2. Iceland 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 Iceland.  To obtain a Passport for the child in Iceland please contact The District Commissioner in Kopavogur.
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'''The District Commissioner in Kopavogu ( Sýslumaðurinn í Kópavogi)'''
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Dalvegi 18
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201 Kópavogur - Map
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Tel.+354-560-3000;
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Fax +354-560-3090
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Netfang kopavogur@syslumenn.is
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Opening hours are from 9:00 to 15:30.
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Phone hours are from 8:30 to 16:00
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+
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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 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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'''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 Child Citizenship Act.
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=Traveling Abroad=
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=After Adoption=
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1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
  
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''
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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=[[iceland]]
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Revision as of 11:47, 12 July 2021

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

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

Sudureyri.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Colorful rooftops in Reykjavik.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Turf-roofed house in (Skógar).
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Eyjafjörður, the longest fjord in .
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Central Rekjavik.
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 Iceland

Settled by Norwegian and Celtic (Scottish and Irish) immigrants during the late 9th and 10th centuries A.D., Iceland boasts the world's oldest functioning legislative assembly, the Althing, established in 930. For more information please read About Iceland.


Hague Convention Information

Iceland 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 Iceland and the United States must meet the requirements of the Convention and U.S. law implementing the Convention. To learn more please read about Iceland and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

Adoption between the United States and Iceland is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. Therefore to adopt from Iceland, you must first be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Iceland.


Who Can Be Adopted

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


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Iceland's Adoption Authority

The Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs - The National Commissioner on Adoptions.

The Process

Because Iceland is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Iceland 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 Iceland 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 Iceland
  6. Bring your Child Home

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

Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

Iceland does not have any post-adoption or post-placement reporting requirements at this time.


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


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Iceland

Laufasvegur 21, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland Tel: (354) 562-9100 E-mail: reykjavikconsular@state.gov


Iceland's Adoption Authority

The Ministry of Judicial and Ecclesiastical Affairs Arnarhvall on Lindargata 150 Reykjavik, Iceland Tel: 011-354-560-9010 Fax: 011-354-552-7340 E-mail: postur@dkm.stjr.is


Embassy of Iceland

1156 15 th Street N.W., Suite 1200 Washington, D.C. 20005-1704 Tel.: (202) 265 6653 E-mail: icemb.wash@mfa.is Internet: Embassy of Iceland


Iceland also has a Consulate General in New York and honorary consulates around the United States.


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 adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=iceland