Adoption Process

As this is a new program, we cannot specify wait times for a referral at the present time.

Registration/ Application

Our Registration and Application are the first steps in beginning your journey as a client of Wide Horizons For Children (WHFC). Full service families will be assigned a social worker and begin the home study process when we receive the first part of the application materials. You will be required to complete and return a number of documents, including general household information, financial information, criminal background checks, and others.

For clients who will be using WHFC for child placement services only, you will be assigned a case manager to guide you through your adoption process, and to liaison with your home study agency social worker.

Home Study and CIS Approval

The home study is an assessment of an applicant's suitability to adopt a child, as well as an opportunity for a social worker to educate and counsel the applicants about adoption. The social worker will help identify the type of child a family is best suited to adopt. The home study itself is a written report of the findings of the social worker who has met with the applicants on several occasions, both individually and together. Additionally, in order to adopt internationally, all applicants must submit an I600-A application for favorable determination for the granting of an orphan petition.

Dossier Submission

The dossier consists of documents mandated by the adoption authorities in Rwanda before you can move forward with receiving the referral of a child for adoption. WHFC will provide detailed instructions as well as support to help you with the completion of your dossier.

Travel to Rwanda

While only one parent is required to travel, it is preferable for both parents to make the trip to Rwanda. You will stay in Rwanda for at least 10 days, and be required to spend at least 3 additional days in Nairobi, Kenya to process your child's visa.

Travel Resources

U.S. Department of State - Lists any current travel advisories for Rwanda and other countries.

Travel Protectors, LLC - Offers medical coverage and assistance services for Americans traveling outside the U.S.

Re-Fingerprinting & I600-A Updating

Are your fingerprints up to date? CIS regulations state that fingerprints must be no more than 15 months old at the time of I600 filing for child's immigrant visa. Contact your CIS Coordinator at 781.894.5330 for additional information.

Home with Child/ Post-Placement

Rwandan adoptions are considered to be full and final on the date the Rwanda government completes the adoption proceedings. However, not all adoptions are considered final by USCIS, and you must re-adopt the child under the laws of your state of residence. WHFC will assist families with this re-adoption process. A 3-year period of post-placement supervision and reporting is required after your child comes home.