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Difference between revisions of "Adopting from Mozambique"

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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/mz-lgflag.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''The official flag of Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/flags/large/mz-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/mz-map.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/maps/mz-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/mz_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map of Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
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{{#eimage:https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/graphics/locator/afr/mz_large_locator.gif|410x579px|thumb|'''Map.'''<BR/>Source: cia.gov.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5281/5244564847_69ee7ca50a.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Household women and girls take lunch of boiled sorghum in northern Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5281/5244564847_69ee7ca50a.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Household women and girls take lunch of boiled sorghum.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b4/Gurue_Mount_Murresse.jpg/800px-Gurue_Mount_Murresse.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Mount Murresse in Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b4/Gurue_Mount_Murresse.jpg/800px-Gurue_Mount_Murresse.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Mount Murress.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cd/Mozambique_classroom.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A boy in his classroom, Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cd/Mozambique_classroom.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A boy in his classroom.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3004/3912235854_5ca64f24de.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A fishing boat in Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d8/2010-10-18_10-55-00_Mozambique_Maputo_Macamo.jpg/800px-2010-10-18_10-55-00_Mozambique_Maputo_Macamo.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''View of capital city Maputo.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d8/2010-10-18_10-55-00_Mozambique_Maputo_Macamo.jpg/800px-2010-10-18_10-55-00_Mozambique_Maputo_Macamo.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''View of capital city Maputo, Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/87/Mozambique025.jpg/800px-Mozambique025.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A family in Nampula.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/87/Mozambique025.jpg/800px-Mozambique025.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''A family in Nampula, Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5d/Mozambique022.jpg/400px-Mozambique022.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Makhuwa children in Nampula.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/5d/Mozambique022.jpg/400px-Mozambique022.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Makhuwa children in Nampula, Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9d/Quilimane.jpg/421px-Quilimane.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The old cathedral of Quelimane.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
  
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{{#eimage:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9d/Quilimane.jpg/421px-Quilimane.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''The old cathedral of Quelimane, Mozambique.'''<BR/>Source: Wikipedia.org.}}
 
  
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{{#eimage:https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4052/5168029295_0f8dfc83a7.jpg|410x579px|thumb|'''Mozambique children.'''<BR/>Source: flickr.com.}}
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating [[international]] adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
  
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'''Notice: As of July 14, 2014, all individuals and agencies facilitating international adoptions must be in compliance with the Intercountry [[Universal Accreditation Act]].'''
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The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed and qualified professional. While the content of this website is frequently updated, information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies, omissions or typographical errors.
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
 
  
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Mozambique is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(the [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]).  Intercountry adoptions of children from non-Hague countries are processed in accordance with [http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?c=ecfr&rgn=div5&view=text&node=8:1.0.1.2.8&idno=8#8:1.0.1.2.8.1.1.3 8 Code of Federal Regulations, Section  204.3] as it relates to orphans as defined under the [http://www.uscis.gov/iframe/ilink/docView/SLB/HTML/SLB/0-0-0-1/0-0-0-29/0-0-0-101/0-0-0-434.html Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 101(b)(1)(F)].
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=About Mozambique=
  
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Almost five centuries as a Portuguese colony came to a close with independence in 1975. Large-scale emigration, economic dependence on [[South Africa]], a severe drought, and a prolonged civil war hindered the country's development until the mid 1990s. The ruling Front for the Liberation of [[Mozambique]] (Frelimo) party formally abandoned Marxism in 1989, and a new constitution the following year provided for multiparty elections and a free market economy. To learn more please read [[About Mozambique]].
  
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be legal residents of Mozambique and must be present in the country for the duration of the adoption process. This includes a six month integration period after a prospective adoptive child is placed in the home, and before the adoption can be finalized by the court.  (Visit the Embassy of Mozambique website for current visa information.)  Additionally, married prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be married for three years prior to the initiation of the adoption process.  The marriage can be civil, religious, or traditional, as long as it is registered.  Civil marriages are registered with the civil registrar.  Religious marriages are registered with the office of the religious denomination chosen by the given couple.  This is done by having the community leader, married couple, and their witnesses sign a declaration and taking it to the relevant district office.  Traditional marriages require the presence of the community leader and at least two witnesses.  This is done by presenting witnesses to the appropriate district official.  In cases in which the marriage took place at least three years prior to the initiation of the adoption, but was not registered, the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may invoke common law.
 
  
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=Hague Convention Information=
  
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The Government of Mozambique requires post-adoption monitoring until the child reaches 21 years of age.  This requirement may be waived at the judge’s discretion. However, the courts may not grant an adoption if the child will be immediately taken out of Mozambique.
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[[Mozambique]] is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry [[Adoption]](the [http://adoption.state.gov/hague_convention/overview.php Hague Adoption Convention]). To learn more please read about [[Mozambique and the Hague Convention]].
  
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Changes to Mozambique’s intercountry adoption laws are under consideration by Unidade Technica da Reforma Legal (UTREL), which drafts and proposes laws for the Government of Mozambique.  To date, no substantial amendments have been made to the existing laws.  Mozambican law does not make a distinction between intercountry and [[Domestic Adoption|domestic adoption]].  This may mean that foreigners will be expected to meet the same pre- and post-adoption monitoring requirements as Mozambican families, which may become an obstacle if the court decides the child cannot be monitored outside of Mozambique.
 
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'''U.S. IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS'''
 
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To bring an [[adopted]] child to the United States from Mozambique, you must meet [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who_can_adopt/eligibility.php eligibility and suitability requirements].  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/who.php Who Can Adopt] under U.S. immigration law.
 
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Additionally, a child must meet the [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php definition of orphan] under U.S. law in order to be eligible to immigrate to the United States on an IR-3 or IR-4 immigrant visa.
 
  
 
=Who Can Adopt=
 
=Who Can Adopt=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet the following requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from Mozambique:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet multiple requirements in order to [[adopt]] a child from [[Mozambique]]. To learn more please read about [[Who Can Adopt from Mozambique]].
 
   
 
   
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==Residency==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be legal residents of Mozambique and must be physically present in Mozambique for the duration of the adoption process, including a six-month integration period after a prospective adoptive child is placed in the home and before the adoption can be finalized by the court.
 
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==Age of Adopting Parents==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be over 25 years of age and less than 50 on the date the child is entrusted to them, unless the child is the biological son or daughter of one of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
 
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==Marriage==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must be married for three years prior to the initiation of the adoption process.  Single people are not eligible to [[adopt]].  The Government of Mozambique does not legally permit same-sex couples to [[adopt]].
 
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==Income==
 
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None.
 
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==Other==
 
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Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must undergo a home study evaluation by Mozambican social and health workers from the country’s child welfare office and must be certified approved for adoption.
 
  
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
 
=Who Can Be Adopted=
  
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Mozambique has specific requirements that a child must meet in order to be eligible for adoption:
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In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, [[Mozambique]] 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 Mozambique]].
  
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'''[[Relinquishment]]:'''  In order to be eligible for adoption, a child must be relinquished by both parents.  However, there is an exception if the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] is the spouse of a biological parent or a partner with whom the biological parent has been living for at least three years.  In these situations, only the biological parent who is not living with the minor child and the prospective [[Adoptive Parent|adoptive parent]] must relinquish [[Parental Rights|parental rights]].
 
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'''[[Abandonment]]:'''  A child of unknown parents.
 
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'''Age of Adoptive Child:'''  The prospective adoptive child must be a minor under 14 years of age, or 18 years of age if s/he has been fostered by the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] since 12 years of age.
 
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'''Sibling Adoptions:'''  None
 
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'''[[Special Needs]] or Medical Conditions:'''  None
 
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'''Waiting Period or Foster Care:'''  The adoption is generally preceded by a minimum adaptation period of six months, in which the prospective [[adopted]] child is integrated into the family via foster care before the legal adoption is finalized in the court.  This process must take place in Mozambique.
 
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'''Caution:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be aware that not all children in orphanages or children’s homes are adoptable.  In many countries, birth parents place their child(ren) temporarily in an orphanage or children’s home due to financial or other hardship, with the intention of returning for the child when they are able to do so.  In such cases, the birth parent(s) have rarely relinquished their [[Parental Rights|parental rights]] or consented to their child(ren)’s adoption.
 
  
 
=How to Adopt=
 
=How to Adopt=
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==Adoption Authority==
 
==Adoption Authority==
  
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'''Mozambique’s Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Mozambique]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
 
Social Services National Directorate (Direcção Nacional da Acçao Social)  
 
Social Services National Directorate (Direcção Nacional da Acçao Social)  
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==The Process==
 
==The Process==
  
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The process for adopting a child from Mozambique generally includes the following steps:
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The process for adopting a child from [[Mozambique]] 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 Mozambique
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# [[Adopt]] the child in [[Mozambique]]
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
 
# Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
 
# Bring your child home
 
# Bring your child home
  
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To learn more about this process please read [[How to Adopt from Mozambique]].
  
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'''1. Choose an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]]'''
 
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The recommended first step in adopting a child from Mozambique is to decide whether or not to use a licensed [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] in the United States that can help you with your adoption.  Adoption service providers must be licensed by the U.S. state in which they operate.  The Department of State provides information on [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/agencies.php selecting] an [[Adoption Service Provider|adoption service provider]] on its website.
 
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U.S. adoption service providers do not usually play a role in the adoption process.  The services of a private attorney in Mozambique are not normally required for the adoption process.  However, the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique maintains a [http://maputo.usembassy.gov/legal_information.html list of attorneys] that is available on request.
 
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'''2. Apply to be found eligible to [[adopt]]'''
 
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In order to [[adopt]] a child from Mozambique, prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] will need to meet the requirements of the Government of Mozambique and U.S. immigration law.  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] must submit an application to be found eligible to [[adopt]] with the municipal juvenile court (Tribunal de Menores) closest to the residence of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
 
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Prospective adoptions parents must provide an application addressed to the presiding judge of the court, stating:
 
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::1. Advantages of adoption for the adoptee;
 
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::2. Age of adoptee;
 
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::3. Age of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]], and
 
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::4. Marital status of the [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]].
 
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The prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]’ signature on the statement must be witnessed by three people.  If the judge makes a positive decision on the adoption, the case is generally transferred to the Social Services National Directorate to conduct a home study.  To meet U.S. immigration requirements, you may also file an [[I-600A]], [http://www.uscis.gov/i-600a Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition] with U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to be found eligible and suitable to [[adopt]].
 
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'''3. Be matched with a child'''
 
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If you are eligible to [[adopt]], and a child is available for intercountry adoption, Mozambique’s Social Services National Directorate will provide you with a referral.  Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs of and provide a permanent home for a particular child.
 
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The child must be eligible to be [[adopted]] according to Mozambique’s requirements, as described in the Who Can Be [[Adopted]] section.  The child must also meet the [http://adoption.state.gov/adoption_process/how_to_adopt/childeligibility.php definition of an orphan] under U.S. immigration law.
 
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'''4. [[Adopt]] the child in Mozambique'''
 
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The process for finalizing the adoption in Mozambique generally includes the following:
 
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*'''Role of Adoption Authority:'''  Municipal authorities oversee adoptions within their respective geographic areas of [[jurisdiction]].  U.S. citizens wishing to [[adopt]] in Maputo should contact Ana Maria Macuacua, the head of Maputo City’s Social Service National Directorate at  (258) 21 302613.  Numbers for offices in other provinces can be obtained by contacting the national directorate at +258 21 302613.
 
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*'''Role of the Court:'''  The Juvenile Court (Tribunal de Menores) grants official orders of adoption or guardianship.
 
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*'''Role of [[Adoption Agencies]]:'''  None.
 
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*'''Adoption Application:'''  The first step in the adoption process is submission of a formal adoption request to the Juvenile Court in the appropriate governing municipality.  Together with the initial application, prospective parents should submit a certified copy of their marriage certificate (translated into Portuguese) and photocopies of their passports and Mozambican residency permits (known as a “DIRE”).  A list of other supporting documents and required forms may be obtained from the court.  If the court grants the order of adoption, the Social Services Directorate (SSD) will then begin a lengthy investigation of the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]]’ lifestyle, economic means, mental and physical health, and other details associated with a home study evaluation. During this time, the process of identifying a child for adoption is also initiated by the SSD. As a final step, the SSD will pass the parents’ petition for adoption to the Juvenile Court (Tribunal de Menores), to issue a certificate of approval officially endorsing the adoption. The [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] may then begin the process of registration, name change, and application for new identity and nationality documents for their child.
 
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*'''Time Frame:'''  The adoption process in Mozambique takes approximately six to nine months.  U.S. immigrant visa petitions filed at the U.S. Embassy in Mozambique on behalf of [[adopted]] minors are forwarded to the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg for adjudication.
 
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*'''Adoption Fees:'''  There is a court fee of 1,450 Meticais (approximately USD $50), in addition to minor fees for forms and documents.  [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] will also be responsible for acquiring official translations of both English- and Portuguese-language documents.  The U.S. Embassy in Mozambique maintains a list of Portuguese/English translators for the public use.
 
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*'''Documents Required:'''  Prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] should be prepared to submit certified copies of their marriage certificate, Mozambican residency cards, passports (all with official translations, if required), along with bank statements and health certificates to the SSD who then submits these documents to the Juvenile court.  '''NOTE:'''  Additional documents may be requested.
 
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*'''Authentication of Documents:'''  You may be asked to provide proof that a document from the United States is authentic.  If so, the Department of State, Authentications Office may be able to assist.
 
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'''5. Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status'''
 
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After you finalize the adoption in Mozambique, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services must determine whether the child meets the definition of orphan under U.S. law.  You will need to file a Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative].
 
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'''6. Bring your child home'''
 
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Once your adoption is complete, you need to apply for several documents for your child before you can apply for a U.S. immigrant visa to bring your child home to the United States:
 
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::1. Birth Certificate
 
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If you have finalized the adoption in Mozambique, you will first need to apply for a new Mozambican birth certificate for your child, so that you can later apply for a Mozambican passport.  Your name will be added to the new birth certificate.  To obtain a new birth certificate, please contact Conservatória does Registo Civil, located at Av. Karl Max (Tel: (258) 21 33798).
 
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::2. Mozambique 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 Mozambique.  Please contact the Direção Nacional de Migração, located at Av. Ho Chi Min 316, Maputo (Tel: (258) 21430782/21 303765), in order to obtain the passport.
 
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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 and you have filed Form [[I-600]], [http://www.uscis.gov/adoption/immigration-through-adoption/orphan-process Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative], you then need to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa for your 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 [http://adoption.state.gov/us_visa_for_your_child/health.php medical report] on the child.
 
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The U.S. Embassy in Mozambique does not conduct immigrant visa interviews or make decisions in immigrant visa cases.  All immigrant visa applications for citizens of Mozambique, including [[adopted]] children, are adjudicated by the [http://southafrica.usembassy.gov/immigrant_visas.html Consular Section at the U.S. Consulate General] in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]].
 
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APPLYING FOR A VISA AT THE U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL IN JOHANNESBURG, [[South Africa|SOUTH AFRICA]]:  All U.S. immigrant visas for citizens of Mozambique are processed by the Consular Section at the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, [[South Africa]].  Before traveling, please review the Consular Information Sheet for [[South Africa]] and be sure to comply with the Government of [[South Africa]]’s entry requirements, which stipulate that travelers to [[South Africa]] must have at least two blank pages in their foreign passport upon entry.
 
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Once the Consular Section is in receipt of a family’s approved Form [[I-600]] petition, the Consular Section will contact the family concerning their next steps.  Immigrant visa applicants must complete a series of forms—details of which will be provided to the prospective [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] by the U.S, Consulate General in Johannesburg—before the immigrant visa interview may take place.  Once the family is documentarily ready for the immigrant visa interview, they must call the Consular Section to schedule an appointment.  A consular officer conducts the interview and, if the visa application is approved, issues the visa.  A consular officer must see the [[adopted]] child before the immigrant visa may be issued.  All adoption cases must include full judicial documentation that constitutes irrevocable release of the child for immigration and adoption, as well as permission to depart the country by the court that granted the adoption.
 
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Mailing Address:
 
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Consulate General of the United States of America
 
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P.O. Box 787197, Sandton, 2146
 
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Johannesburg, [[South Africa]]
 
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Physical Address:
 
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1 Sandton Drive, Sandhurst (opposite Sandton City Mall)
 
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Johannesburg, [[South Africa]]
 
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Tel:  (27 11) 290-3000
 
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Fax:  (27 11) (011) 884-0396
 
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Email:  consularjohannesburg@state.gov
 
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'''NOTE:'''  Visa issuance after the final interview now generally takes at least 24 working hours and it will not normally be possible to provide the visa to [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] on the day of the interview.  [[Adoptive Parents|Adoptive parents]] should not make final travel arrangements before they receive the visa.
 
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'''Child Citizenship Act'''
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
 
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'''''For adoptions finalized after the child’s entry into the United States:'''''  An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
 
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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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Read more about the [http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english/legal-considerations.html Child Citizenship Act of 2000].
 
  
 
=Traveling Abroad=
 
=Traveling Abroad=
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'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
 
'''Applying for Your U.S. Passport'''
  
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave Mozambique. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.  Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The [https://pptform.state.gov/ Passport Application Wizard] will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print-all in one place.
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A valid U.S. passport is required to enter and leave [[Mozambique]]. 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 Mozambique]].
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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 Mozambique, 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 Mozambique, registration assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you. Registration is free and can be done online.
 
  
 
=After Adoption=
 
=After Adoption=
  
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The Government of Mozambique requires post-adoption monitoring until the child reaches 21 years of age. This requirement may be waived by the Juvenile court.  However, the courts may not grant an adoption if the child will be immediately taken out of Mozambique.
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The Government of [[Mozambique]] requires post-[[adoption]] monitoring until the child reaches 21 years of age. This requirement may be waived by the [[Juvenile]] court.  However, the courts may not grant an [[adoption]] if the child will be immediately taken out of [[Mozambique]].
  
  
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We strongly urge you to comply with Mozambique’s post-adoption requirements in a timely manner.  Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process.  Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s positive experiences with American parents.
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We strongly urge you to comply with [[Mozambique]]’s post-[[adoption]] requirements in a timely manner.  Your [[Adoption Agency|adoption agency]] may be able to help you with this process.  Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s positive experiences with American parents.
  
  
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'''Post-Adoption Resources'''  
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'''[[Post-Adoption Resources]]'''  
  
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the adoption.  There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
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Many [[Adoptive Parents|adoptive parents]] find it important to find support after the [[adoption]].  There are many public and private nonprofit post-[[adoption]] services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee [[organizations]] active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin.  Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
  
  
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==Contact Information==
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=Contact Information=
  
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'''U.S. Embassy in Mozambique'''
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'''U.S. Embassy in [[Mozambique]]'''
  
 
U.S. Embassy
 
U.S. Embassy
 
Consular Section
 
Consular Section
 
Avenida Kenneth Kaunda 193
 
Avenida Kenneth Kaunda 193
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Maputo, Mozambique
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Maputo, [[Mozambique]]
 
Tel:  (258) 21 49 2797
 
Tel:  (258) 21 49 2797
 
Fax:  (258) 21 49 0448
 
Fax:  (258) 21 49 0448
 
Email:  ConsularMaputo@state.gov  
 
Email:  ConsularMaputo@state.gov  
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Internet:  [http://maputo.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy Mozambique]
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Internet:  maputo.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy Mozambique
  
  
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'''Mozambique’s Adoption Authority'''
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'''[[Mozambique]]’s [[Adoption]] Authority'''
  
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Adoption information may be requested from this office by postal mail, international courier or phone using the following contact information
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[[Adoption]] information may be requested from this office by postal mail, [[international]] courier or phone using the following contact information
 
Direcção Nacional de Acção Social
 
Direcção Nacional de Acção Social
 
Departamento da Crianca (Social Services National Directorate, Children’s Department)
 
Departamento da Crianca (Social Services National Directorate, Children’s Department)
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'''Embassy of Mozambique'''
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'''Embassy of [[Mozambique]]'''
  
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Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique
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Embassy of the Republic of [[Mozambique]]
 
1525 [[New Hampshire]] Avenue, N.W.
 
1525 [[New Hampshire]] Avenue, N.W.
 
Suite 570
 
Suite 570
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Tel:  1-888-407-4747
 
Tel:  1-888-407-4747
 
Email:  AskCI@state.gov  
 
Email:  AskCI@state.gov  
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Internet:  [http://adoption.state.gov]
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Internet:  adoption.state.gov
  
  
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National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
 
National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
 
Tel:  1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
 
Tel:  1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
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Internet:  [http://uscis.gov USCIS]
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Internet:  uscis.gov USCIS
  
  
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==SOURCE==
 
==SOURCE==
  
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'''Intercountry [[Adoption]], Bureau of Consular Affairs.  U.S. Department of State Country Information'''[http://adoption.state.gov/country_information/country_specific_info.php?country-select=mozambique]
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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=mozambique
  
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]
 
[[Category: International Adoption]]

Latest revision as of 05:38, 19 February 2018

The official flag.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Map.
Source: cia.gov.

Household women and girls take lunch of boiled sorghum.
Source: flickr.com.

Mount Murress.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A boy in his classroom.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

View of capital city Maputo.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

A family in Nampula.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

Makhuwa children in Nampula.
Source: Wikipedia.org.

The old cathedral of Quelimane.
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 Mozambique

Almost five centuries as a Portuguese colony came to a close with independence in 1975. Large-scale emigration, economic dependence on South Africa, a severe drought, and a prolonged civil war hindered the country's development until the mid 1990s. The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) party formally abandoned Marxism in 1989, and a new constitution the following year provided for multiparty elections and a free market economy. To learn more please read About Mozambique.


Hague Convention Information

Mozambique is not party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption(the Hague Adoption Convention). To learn more please read about Mozambique and the Hague Convention.


Who Can Adopt

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, you must also meet multiple requirements in order to adopt a child from Mozambique. To learn more please read about Who Can Adopt from Mozambique.


Who Can Be Adopted

In addition to U.S. immigration requirements, Mozambique 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 Mozambique.


How to Adopt

Adoption Authority

Mozambique’s Adoption Authority

Social Services National Directorate (Direcção Nacional da Acçao Social)


The Process

The process for adopting a child from Mozambique 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 Mozambique
  5. Apply for the child to be found eligible for orphan status
  6. Bring your child home

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


Traveling Abroad

Applying for Your U.S. Passport

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


After Adoption

The Government of Mozambique requires post-adoption monitoring until the child reaches 21 years of age. This requirement may be waived by the Juvenile court. However, the courts may not grant an adoption if the child will be immediately taken out of Mozambique.


We strongly urge you to comply with Mozambique’s post-adoption requirements in a timely manner. Your adoption agency may be able to help you with this process. Your cooperation will contribute to that country’s positive experiences with American parents.


Post-Adoption Resources

Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.


Here are some places to start your support group search:


Child Welfare Information Gateway

North American Council on Adoptable Children

Adoption Services Support Groups for Adopting Persons


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


Contact Information

U.S. Embassy in Mozambique

U.S. Embassy Consular Section Avenida Kenneth Kaunda 193 Maputo, Mozambique Tel: (258) 21 49 2797 Fax: (258) 21 49 0448 Email: ConsularMaputo@state.gov Internet: maputo.usembassy.gov U.S. Embassy Mozambique


Mozambique’s Adoption Authority

Adoption information may be requested from this office by postal mail, international courier or phone using the following contact information Direcção Nacional de Acção Social Departamento da Crianca (Social Services National Directorate, Children’s Department) Av. Ahmed Sékou Touré 908, Tel: +258 21 350300/301 064 Ms. Francisca Sales is the Director of the Social Services National Directorate at the federal level.


Embassy of Mozambique

Embassy of the Republic of Mozambique 1525 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. Suite 570 Washington, D.C. 20036 Tel: (202) 293-7146 Email: embamoc@aol.com


Office of Children’s Issues

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


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

For questions about immigration procedures: National Customer Service Center (NCSC) Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833) Internet: uscis.gov USCIS


For questions about filing a Form I-600A or I-600 petition: National Benefits Center Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local) Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov

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=mozambique