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Adoption ABC's: The Process

Beginning the adoption process is a little like learning a new language. Many things are likely to feel strange. Be assured, however, that the adoption process has predictable steps and that with the guiding hand of your social worker and other experienced staff, we will work to make things run as smoothly as possible. There will be unexpected twists - that's not unusual in adoption.

The adoption process will include the following steps:

Application

An application packet will be sent to you following your registration with the agency. The application step involves completing or forwarding all of the requested information/documents in the application packet. In some instances, documents will be forwarded to us by a third party. Materials requested will include autobiographical information, financial information and copies of your birth certificate and marriage certificate when applicable. We also require letters of reference and completed medical statements, as well as criminal and child abuse clearance for all family members. Our experienced staff will assist with any questions you may have about document collection.

The home study

The home study report is written by your social worker after all of your documents are submitted/forwarded and interviews have been completed. On average, the social worker will meet with you three times, including one home visit. Should new information arise after that, the report can be changed or amended. While prospective parents may sometimes feel intimidated by the process, the home study is actually an excellent opportunity to explore issues and expectations around parenting and adoption. First time applicants to WHFC are asked to participate in a pre-adoptive group. Issues discussed are pertinent to adoption, including short and long term adjustment, acceptance by the family and community as well as medical and legal concerns. The home study is an important part of your dossier and is a requirement of all of our adoption programs. For more information on the home study, read the article What Your Homestudy Can Do For You by Lisa Lovett, LCSW.

Selecting a program

Some prospective parents come to us with a clear preference for one of our programs. For others, the decision is a gradual process that may take several months or longer. It is possible to begin your home study process without first selecting the adoption program and prospective parents are encouraged to apply to more than one program at no extra agency cost (China is an exception). Program requirements, set by the country of origin, will also help direct prospective parents to the programs which are viable choices for them.

There are many ways to gather information about program choices. In fact, your social worker is an excellent sounding board for this discussion. She will put you in touch with our program staff who have current, detailed knowledge of each program. Once you have registered with WHFC you are welcome to call other families who have adopted to discuss their experience. Attending an agency cultural event is also an excellent way to meet parents and children. For more information, read the article Making a Program Choice: What to Consider, by Janice Hoffman.

Preparing your dossier

Once you have selected your program(s), our Program Coordinators will guide you through the collection of documents required by the country. The content of the country dossier will vary depending upon the program selected. Please note that dossiers require original documents separate from those required for the agency application materials.

U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service

Clearance by CIS is necessary to bring your adopted child into the U.S. You will be required to file for the I600A - Application For Advance Processing of Orphan Petition - and the I600 - Petition to Classify Orphan As An Immediate Relative. Fingerprint clearance will also be required.

To begin the process, contact your local CIS office to obtain the necessary forms. You may obtain these forms, free of charge, by either calling (800-870-3676), visiting the CIS office or from their website at www.uscis.gov. Please note that detailed filing procedures for immigration will be made available to you at WHFC as you go through the process.

Your child's referral

This is the moment you have been waiting for! You will receive notice of the child that has been matched with you and presented with the information that has been made available to the agency. The extent of this information will vary by country. WHFC advises you to consult with a pediatrician about the child's medical history, if available, in order to ensure a good understanding of the child's health and development.

Bringing your child home

Travel options and length of stay requirements vary by program. Please refer to the individual adoption programs for detailed information. Some programs allow your child to be escorted to the United States while others require a stay of several weeks. Once a referral is accepted by the parents, appropriate passport and visa arrangements need to be made for the child. WHFC will provide detailed instructions about this process to all applicants.

Post-placement services

After the child(ren)'s arrival, post placement follow-up will be completed by your social worker for a minimum of six months. Some countries require additional follow-up and it is expected that adoptive families will cooperate with all requirements set forth by the country of origin. Visits with your social worker may be both in home or office visits. Families will be asked to provide brief written reports and photos at regular intervals. For more information, read the article "Answering the Post Placement Service Question: Why Are We Doing This?" by Laura Stevens, MSW, PhD.

Finalization

WHFC will assist families with the process of finalization. Parents are encouraged to finalize the adoption of their child in their own state of residence in order to provide them and the child with the full protection of state law.

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