Processing Time
The application through final adoption decree takes approximately 12-24 months, depending on the gender of child requested. The average referral time takes approximately 6-12 months: boys typically take 6-9 months, girls 9-12 months.
Children Available
Boys are more available than girls; 10 months - 15 years old. You have the option to adopt more than one child.
Parents' Ages
Parents must be at least 25-years-old, and cannot be more than 40-45 years older than the adoptee (this varies from region-to-region and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis).
Marriage Status
Only married couples are accepted for a healthy adoption. Singles may adopt a child with special needs or an older, healthy child.
Divorce
Permitted (maximum of two per spouse).
Children in Family
Families with children in the home are permitted to adopt.
Income
Families must be able to show they can adequately provide financially for their children. A family’s income and full financial status will be evaluated as part of the adoption process.
Criminal History
No felonies permitted. All other criminal history must be at least 15 years old, and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Medical History
No mental health and/or cancer diagnoses or treatment permitted. Other medical history reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Travel to Country
Both parents must travel on three trips. The duration of the first trip is typically one week. The average waiting time before the second trip is typically 2-6 months from the first trip. The second trip is typically 6-14 days. There is a 30 day appeal period following court and before the court decree goes into effect. During this time both parents may return to the U.S. to return on a third and final trip which is typically one week.
**Please refer to America World's
Agency Adoption Requirements for a complete list of requirements.
