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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Liberia"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/li-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/li-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/li-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/li-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/afr/li_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/li_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Downtown_Monrovia_3348917715_67a2002529.jpg/800px-Downtown_Monrovia_3348917715_67a2002529.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Downtown Monrovia, Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0b/Downtown_Monrovia_3348917715_67a2002529.jpg/800px-Downtown_Monrovia_3348917715_67a2002529.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Downtown Monrovia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/44/Flickr_-_usaid.africa_-_Liberia_schoolgirls.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Schoolgirls in Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/44/Flickr_-_usaid.africa_-_Liberia_schoolgirls.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Schoolgirls.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c1/Monrovia_Street2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Monrovia Street, Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c1/Monrovia_Street2.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Monrovia Street.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d1/Young_boy_grinding_sugar_cane_in_Liberia.jpg/800px-Young_boy_grinding_sugar_cane_in_Liberia.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Boy grinding sugar cane in Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d1/Young_boy_grinding_sugar_cane_in_Liberia.jpg/800px-Young_boy_grinding_sugar_cane_in_Liberia.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Boy grinding sugar cane.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/be/City_of_Kakata%2C_photograph_of_main_road_near_BWI%2C_May_2012.jpg/800px-City_of_Kakata%2C_photograph_of_main_road_near_BWI%2C_May_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kakata, Margibi County, Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/be/City_of_Kakata%2C_photograph_of_main_road_near_BWI%2C_May_2012.jpg/800px-City_of_Kakata%2C_photograph_of_main_road_near_BWI%2C_May_2012.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Kakata, Margibi County.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0a/Voinjamamosque.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Voinjama Mosque, Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0a/Voinjamamosque.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Voinjama Mosque.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Bomi_lake.jpg/800px-Bomi_lake.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Lake Bomi, Tubmanburg, Liberia.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Bomi_lake.jpg/800px-Bomi_lake.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Lake Bomi, Tubmanburg.'''<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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=Liberia Adoption Alert=
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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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<span style="color:red">'''Notice: Notice regarding fees charged for exit clearance (August 31, 2010)'''
 
  
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The Department of State is aware of cases where [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] have been asked to pay a fee for an exit clearance letter in Liberia. Americans should be extremely cautious about any requests for payments of fees associated with exit clearance letters. Liberia's Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization does not charge a fee for the exit clearance letter. Any requests for such fees should be immediately reported to the U.S. Embassy.
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=About Liberia=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Liberia'''
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Settlement of freed [[slaves]] from the US in what is today [[Liberia]] began in 1822; by 1847, the Americo-Liberians were able to establish a republic. William TUBMAN, president from 1944-71, did much to promote foreign investment and to bridge the economic, social, and political gaps between the descendants of the original settlers and the inhabitants of the interior. To learn more please read [[About Liberia]].
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111 U.N. Drive
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Mamba Point
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Monrovia, Liberia  
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Tel: +231-77-054-826
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Fax: +231-77-010-370
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Email: ConsularMonrovia@state.gov
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'''''The U.S. Government does not condone bribery or corruption of any kind.'''''
 
  
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=Liberia Adoption Alert=
  
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<span style="color:red">'''Notice: Notice Concerning [[Adoption]] Processing In Liberia (April 26, 2010)'''
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There have been multiple [[adoption]] alerts for [[Liberia]]. To learn more please read [[Liberia Adoption Alert]].
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On January 26, 2009, the Government of Liberia suspended adoptions because of allegations of mismanagement and corruption in the [[adoption]] process. The U.S. Department of State cautions American citizens against filing an application to [[adopt]] a child from Liberia while the moratorium on [[adoption]] remains in effect. The U.S. Embassy remains in frequent contact with [[adoption]] officials, but there is no indication when the moratorium might be lifted.
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Since the suspension went into effect, the Liberian Government has formed an Ad-hoc Central [[Adoption]] Authority to have oversight over adoptions and is working to pass [[adoption]] legislation focused on strengthening existing laws and preventing abuses of the [[system]]. The U.S. government strongly supports the Liberian Government's efforts to strengthen its [[adoption]] laws and regulations to provide greater transparency and safeguards for prospective adoptive children, their [[Birth Parent|birth parent]](s) and prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
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The Government of Liberia has informed the U.S. Embassy that it will not process any [[adoption]] cases during the suspension, including those that were in progress before the suspension was announced, and that it will not permit [[adopted]] children depart Liberia. They have also indicated that no new [[adoption]] applications should be accepted by [[adoption]] service providers, no referrals of children to prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] made, and no [[adoption]] petitions filed with the Liberian court while the suspension is in effect. The Liberian Government has made no provisions for the grandfathering of cases under the existing laws. Therefore any case in which a full and final [[adoption]] had not been completed prior to January 26, 2009 is effectively on hold.
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The U.S. Embassy in Monrovia has been informed by the Government of Liberia that it will issue exit clearances, on a case-by-case basis, to children whose full and final [[adoption]] had been completed prior to January 26, 2009 and approved by Liberia's Ad-hoc Central [[Adoption]] Authority. Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] who believe their case might fall into this category should contact the Consular Section at adoptionsmonrovia@state.gov to discuss next steps in the visa process and any gaps in their [[adoption]] file. Additionally, the Government of Liberia is requiring that all [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] appear personally for the exit clearance interview. Processing the visa and obtaining the exit clearance takes about a week of time, but [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] are advised to purchase open-ended return tickets, as there is no guarantee as to how quickly the exit clearance can be obtained.
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] and [[adoption]] service providers are reminded that a consular officer is required, by law, to complete a For I-604 (determination of [[orphan]] status) before issuing a visa in all IR-3 and IR-4 [[adoption]] cases. In some cases, this may require only a conversation with the [[Birth Parent|birth parent]], but in others it may require a full field investigation, possibly lasting several weeks. Since verifying the parent-child relationships in Liberia is difficult, we also expect that in most cases where the child was relinquished by the [[Birth Parent|birth parent]], [[DNA Testing|DNA testing]] will be recommended in order to establish a blood relationship between the [[adopted]] child and claimed [[Birth Parent|birth parent]](s).
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Please continue to monitor [[adoption]].state.gov  for updated information.
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=Hague Convention Information=
 
=Hague Convention Information=
  
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Liberia is not 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, when the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry [[adoption]] processing for Liberia did not change.  
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[[Liberia]] is not 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, when the Hague [[Adoption]] Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry [[adoption]] processing for [[Liberia]] did not change. To learn more please read about [[Liberia and the Hague Convention]].
  
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'''Currently there is a moratorium on new adoptions and all approved adoptions must be approved by the ad-hoc [[adoption]] committee before the children may leave the country.'''  Any prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] who is in the process of adopting from Liberia should contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Liberia at the following e-mail address.
 
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In July 2008, the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Health and Social Welfare began carefully reviewing all [[adoption]] cases submitted to them for approval. This change occurred because the Government of Liberia noticed an increasing number of cases in which [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] decided to terminate their parent/child relationship with Liberian adoptive children.  The Liberian Parliament is considering a revised [[adoption]] law, which was proposed in November 2007. If enacted, the new law would provide additional safeguards to protect adoptive children, birth parents, and prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to United States from Liberia, you must be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Learn more.
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to United States from [[Liberia]], you must be found eligible to [[adopt]] by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Liberia]].
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In addition to these U.S. requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], Liberia also has the following eligibility requirements for prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]:
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==Residency==
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There are no residency requirements for intercountry adoptions in Liberia.
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
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There are no age requirements for intercountry adoptions in Liberia.
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==Marriage==
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There are no marriage requirements for intercountry adoptions in Liberia. If you are married, both parents must [[adopt]] the child.
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==Income==
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There are no income requirements for Liberian intercountry adoptions.
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==Other==
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N/A
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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Liberia has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. You cannot [[adopt]] a child in Liberia unless he or she meets the requirements outlined below.  
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[[Liberia]] has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for [[adoption]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Be Adopted from Liberia]].
  
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The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy thoroughly investigates each [[adoption]] case to verify that the child's [[orphan]] status is legitimate. Since these investigations can take a considerable amount of time, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should check with the Embassy to ensure that the investigation has been completed before making travel arrangements for the child to depart Liberia.
 
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In addition to these requirements, a child must meet the definition of an [[orphan]] under U.S. law for you to bring him or her home back to the United States. Learn more about these U.S. requirements.
 
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'''ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:'''
 
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'''[[Relinquishment]] Requirements:''' In addition to a statement of [[relinquishment]] from the biological parents, the Liberian Government also requires an approved case summary from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MHSW). The case summary is issued after a social worker has investigated the case thoroughly and concluded that [[adoption]] is in the best interest of the child and the Minister or one of his deputies has reviewed all the legal paperwork necessary to process an [[adoption]] in Liberia.
 
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'''[[Abandonment]] Requirements:''' If the child was born in wedlock, the consent of both parents is required. If the child was born out of wedlock, only the mother must consent. Parental consent is not required if the parents have abandoned the child, if the [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] have been legally terminated, if the parents are deceased, or if a [[Legal Guardian|legal guardian]] has been appointed by the court.
 
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'''Age Requirements:'''  If the child is 16 years or older, the child must consent to the [[adoption]]. Please note that a child who is 16 years or older is not considered a "child" but the Immigration and Nationality Act and therefore may be ineligible to immigrate to the United States.
 
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'''Other Requirements:''' In addition to obtaining a statement of [[relinquishment]] from the biological parent or legal guarding of the child being [[adopted]], no [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] can be issued without an approved case summary from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MHSW). A case summary from the MHSW is issued only after a social worker has investigated the case thoroughly and concluded that [[adoption]] is in the best interest of the child, and the Minister has reviewed all the legal paperwork necessary to process an [[adoption]] in Liberia. This requirement has added time to the processing of adoptions, but it is in the best interest of all parties and is strongly endorsed by the Embassy.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Liberia's [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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'''[[Liberia]]'s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
The Ministry of Justice  
 
The Ministry of Justice  
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==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Liberia generally includes the following steps:  
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The process for adopting a child from [[Liberia]] generally includes the following steps:  
  
  
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# Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]
 
# Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]
 
# Be Matched with a Child
 
# Be Matched with a Child
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in Liberia
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# [[Adopt]] the Child in [[Liberia]]
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]
 
# Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]
 
# Bring Your Child Home
 
# Bring Your Child Home
  
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To learn more about this process please read about [[How to Adopt from Liberia]].
  
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'''1. Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider]]'''
 
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The first step in adopting a child from Liberia is usually to select a licensed agency in the United States that can help with your [[adoption]]. [[Adoption]] service providers must be licensed by the U.S. state in which they operate. [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_community/agencies.php Learn more] about choosing the right [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]].
 
  
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=Traveling Abroad=
  
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'''2. Apply to be Found Eligible to [[Adopt]]'''
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
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To bring an [[adopted]] child from Liberia to the United States, you must apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]] (Form [[I-600A]]) by the U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php Learn how].
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In addition to meeting the U.S. requirements for [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], you need to meet the requirements of Liberia as described in the "Who Can [[Adopt]]" section.  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Liberia]]. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more please read about [[Traveling Abroad in Liberia]].
  
  
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'''3. Be Matched with a Child:'''
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=After Adoption=
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If you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry [[adoption]], the central [[adoption]] authority in Liberia will provide you with a referral to a child. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of a particular child and provide a permanent family placement for the referred child.
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The child must be eligible to be [[adopted]] according to Liberia's requirements, as described in the "Who Can be [[Adopted]]" section. The child must also meet the definition of an [[orphan]] under U.S. law. Learn more.
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'''What does [[Liberia]] require of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] after the [[adoption]]?'''
  
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Liberian law has no post-[[adoption]] requirements for [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]. Parents should confirm any post-[[adoption]] requirements with their legal representatives.
  
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'''4. [[Adopt]] the Child (or Gain [[Legal Custody]]) in Liberia:'''
 
  
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The process for finalizing the [[adoption]] (or gaining [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Liberia generally includes the following:
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'''What resources are available to assist families after the [[adoption]]?'''
  
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*'''Role of The [[Adoption]] Authority:''' No [[Adoption Decree|adoption decree]] can be issued without an approved case summary from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MHSW).
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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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*'''Role of the Court:''' A petition for [[adoption]] must be filed with the Probate Court. The petition must contain the name, age, residence and marital status of the petitioners. The name, date and place of birth of the child, the date and manner in which the petitioners acquired [[custody]] of the child, facts (if any) that render consent of either parent unnecessary, the petitioners' desire to [[adopt]] the child and the child's change of name, should also be contained in the petition.  Upon receipt of a petition for [[adoption]], the Court schedules a hearing and serves notice on all interested parties. The petitioners or their legal representative, the parent, parents, or [[guardian]](s) of the child and the child are required to attend the hearing, though the court may waive the appearance of the child for good cause. This waiver must be stated in the order of [[adoption]]. All hearings are public, and held in open court. The court must be satisfied that the "moral and temporal interests" of the child will be satisfied by the [[adoption]]. Upon this showing, the [[adoption]] is ordered. The court must be satisfied that the "moral and temporal interests" of the child will be satisfied by the [[adoption]]. Upon this showing, the [[adoption]] is ordered.
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*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:''' Most [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] normally work with an [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] in the U.S., which in turn liaises with an [[orphanage]] or organization in Liberia prior to initiating the [[adoption]] process. The organization in Liberia must be registered with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
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*'''Time Frame:''' There are no fixed time lines or constraints on the Court's processing of adoptions. The [[adoption]] process, including formal [[relinquishment]] by the parent(s) if necessary, generally takes 3 to 4 weeks. Since November 2007, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] have experienced long delays, sometimes as long as 3 months in processing adoptions due to pending revision of the Liberian [[adoption]] law.
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*'''[[Adoption]] Fees:''' Official Government fees for adoptions in Liberia are minimal and consist mainly of court filing fees. These filing fees are normally less than $12,000 USD. The cost of employing local counsel varies but [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] can expect to pay several hundred dollars at a minimum for an attorney. Note: Liberia has proposed legislation that will increase fees for processing paper through the Courts and the Ministry of Justice for $5 to $1500 USD. These funds will be used to hire additional social workers and court clerks as well as for the general operation of both Ministries.
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*'''Documents Required:''' The following documents are required for [[adoption]] in Liberia:
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::1. Petition for [[Adoption]]
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::2. Written consent of the biological parents
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::3. Copy of [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]' passports
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'''5. Apply for the Child to be Found Eligible for [[Adoption]]:'''
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Here are some good places to start your support group search:  
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After you finalize the [[adoption]] (or gain [[Legal Custody|legal custody]]) in Liberia, the U.S Government, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) MUST determine whether the child is eligible under U.S. law to be [[adopted]] (Form [[I-600]]). [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php Learn how].
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'''6. Bring Your Child Home'''
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[https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/f_postadoption.cfm Child Welfare Information Gateway]  
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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 several documents for your child before he or she can travel to the United States:
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[http://www.nacac.org/ North American Council on Adoptable Children]
  
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
  
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You will first need to apply for a new birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a passport. Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.  
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'''NOTE:''' Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.  
  
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::2. Liberian 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 Liberia.
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=Contact Information=
  
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::3. Exit Clearance
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Liberia]]'''
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111 U.N. Drive
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Mamba Point
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Monrovia, [[Liberia]]
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Tel: 231-077-207-326
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Fax: 231-770-010-370
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Email: ConsularMonrovia@state.gov
  
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The Liberian Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization requires that [[adopted]] children leaving Liberia have an exit clearance letter issued by the Ministry of Jus ce. To receive this letter, you must show a valid visa for the child, and at least one adopting parent must meet with the representative of the Minister of Justice.
 
  
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::4. U.S. Immigrant Visa
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'''Liberian [[Adoption]] Authority'''
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Cllr. Philip Banks , Minister of Justice
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Ministry of Justice Building
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Ashmun Street (Opposite College of West Africa )
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Monrovia, [[Liberia]]
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Special Assistant: +231 6 520140 (Onesimus Bawon)
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Secretary: +231 6 551-598 ( Massa Johnson)
  
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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 in Monrovia for final review and approval of the child's [[I-600]] petition and to obtain a visa for the child. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you.
 
  
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Embassy Monrovia conducts immigrant visa interviews on Tuesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (exceptions are sometimes made for cases involving [[Special Needs Children|special needs children]]). [[Adoption]] service providers and prospective parents may secure an appointment by sending an e-mail to monroviaadoptions@state.gov.  
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'''Embassy of [[Liberia]]'''
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5201 16th Street, N.W.
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[[Washington]], D.C. 20011
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Tel: (202) 723-0437
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Fax: (202) 723-0436
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Email: info@embassyofliberia.org
  
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The [[adopted]] child must be physically present at the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia at the time of the visa interview. Parents must present the following items:
 
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::::1. The required immigrant visa fee in US dollar cash;
 
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::::2. An original and one copy of the [[Adoption Decree]] from the Ministry of Justice;
 
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::::3. An original and one copy of birth certificate for the [[adopted]] child;
 
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::::4. Originals and one copy of documents provided as evidence the child is an [[orphan]];
 
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::::5. Medical exam completed by one of our panel physicians. If no vaccinations, signed [[affidavit]] by parents (for children under age 10);
 
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::::6. Original form I-864 [[affidavit]] of support and a copy of the most recent Federal Tax Returns;
 
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::::7. Original Power of Attorney for representative if parents are not physically present and if [[I-600]] was filed with the USCIS;
 
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::::8. Valid Liberian passport for the child and one copy of passport;
 
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::::9. Two 2 inch by 2 inch front face photographs of the child with a white background.
 
  
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After the petition has been filed, the consular section requires at least three weeks to conduct a mandatory I-604, Determination on Child for [[Adoption]]. Due to security concerns, consular staff is unable to conduct I-604 interviews in outlying areas of the country. In those cases, the birthparent(s) relinquishing parental [[custody]] will be requested to come to the Embassy for a personal interview with a consular officer. Birthparents relinquishing parental [[custody]] who live within the Monrovia city area, may also be requested to come in for a personal interview. Furthermore, [[DNA Testing|DNA testing]] will be required for all cases in which consular staff cannot determine parentage by an interview.
+
'''Office of Children's Issues'''
 +
 +
U.S. Department of State 
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CA/OCS/CI 
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SA-17, 9th Floor
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[[Washington]], DC 20522-1709
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Tel: 1-888-407-4747
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E-mail: AskCI@state.gov
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Internet: [http://adoption.state.gov U.S. Department of State]  
  
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Learn more about the [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/visas.php immigrant visa process].
 
  
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'''U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)'''
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
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The National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
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1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
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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=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Liberia. 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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'''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 Liberia, 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 Liberia, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
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=After Adoption=
+
  
  
 
==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''
+
'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information''' adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=liberia
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 05:15, 19 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Downtown Monrovia.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Schoolgirls.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Monrovia Street.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Boy grinding sugar cane.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Kakata, Margibi County.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Voinjama Mosque.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Lake Bomi, Tubmanburg.
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 Liberia

Settlement of freed slaves from the US in what is today Liberia began in 1822; by 1847, the Americo-Liberians were able to establish a republic. William TUBMAN, president from 1944-71, did much to promote foreign investment and to bridge the economic, social, and political gaps between the descendants of the original settlers and the inhabitants of the interior. To learn more please read About Liberia.


Liberia Adoption Alert

There have been multiple adoption alerts for Liberia. To learn more please read Liberia Adoption Alert.


Hague Convention Information

Liberia is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Therefore, when the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for the United States on April 1, 2008, intercountry adoption processing for Liberia did not change. To learn more please read about Liberia and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

To bring an adopted child to United States from Liberia, you must be found eligible to adopt by the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government agency responsible for making this determination is the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Liberia.


Who Can Be Adopted

Liberia has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption. To learn more please read about Who Can Be Adopted from Liberia.


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Liberia's Adoption Authority

The Ministry of Justice

The Process

The process for adopting a child from Liberia generally includes the following steps:


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

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Liberia. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports. To learn more please read about Traveling Abroad in Liberia.


After Adoption

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

Liberian law has no post-adoption requirements for adoptive parents. Parents should confirm any post-adoption requirements with their legal representatives.


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


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Liberia

111 U.N. Drive Mamba Point Monrovia, Liberia Tel: 231-077-207-326 Fax: 231-770-010-370 Email: ConsularMonrovia@state.gov


Liberian Adoption Authority

Cllr. Philip Banks , Minister of Justice Ministry of Justice Building Ashmun Street (Opposite College of West Africa ) Monrovia, Liberia Special Assistant: +231 6 520140 (Onesimus Bawon) Secretary: +231 6 551-598 ( Massa Johnson)


Embassy of Liberia

5201 16th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20011 Tel: (202) 723-0437 Fax: (202) 723-0436 Email: info@embassyofliberia.org


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)

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=liberia