India Adoption Program: Our Families

Families with Non-Resident Indian (NRI) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status may apply for infants; all other families must be open to a child 3-6 years old. Families without NRI or OCI status are encouraged to double apply to another country program. There may be some flexibility in program requirements for older children or children with special needs. In all cases, at least one parent must be a U.S. citizen. It is beneficial for one parent to retain their Indian citizenship.

The program accepts couples between the ages of 30-55 years, with a combined age of no more than 90 years. The age difference between the adoptive parents and the child should be at least 21 years; and no more than 45 years. Parents between the ages of 45-55 may apply to adopt an older child; the child's age would be determined based on the parent's age. Three years of marriage is strongly recommended; however at least 5 years of a stable relationship may be acceptable. Single women up to the age of 45 years who have not been previously married, widowed or divorced may adopt on a case by case basis.

Although no restrictions have been specifically written in the CARA guidelines, preference is often given to families with less than 4 children in the home. If the family has previously adopted children, those cases must be finalized prior to moving forward with a new adoption.

Family Stories

Jadon's Journey
by Alex and Kelly A
It has been a year now that Jadon Aniket has come home, and it is well past time that I write to you! What an exciting, experience-filled two years this has been for us!

Report from India
by Steve S & Melinda B
After 26 hours of travel by van, air, and truck we arrived safely at 2 AM India time in Pune. Just driving here is quite an experience.