Your Voices Were Heard: Intercountry Adoption Remains a Priority
To follow up on our last blog post, we are encouraged to share positive news from the U.S. Department of State regarding the processing of intercountry adoption visas.
The Department of State has issued formal guidance to U.S. consulates overseas reaffirming that intercountry adoption remains a high priority for the Administration. Consular posts have been instructed that adoption-related visas are eligible for National Interest Exceptions under the current presidential proclamation and should be processed on a priority, case-by-case basis.
What This Means for Families
Here are the main points for families in the process of international adoption:
Intercountry adoption visas will continue to be processed, even in countries where other immigrant visas may be limited or paused.
No additional steps are required for families to request a National Interest Exception. Adoption cases are automatically considered and prioritized.
Families should continue moving forward as normal, including submitting visa applications and attending consular interviews.
With overall visa volumes currently reduced, many U.S. consulates have increased capacity to assist with adoption cases.
The Department of State has also designated a specific point of contact within the Bureau of Consular Affairs to support coordination and address adoption-related questions, further underscoring the government’s commitment to children and families.
Walking This Journey Together
America World remains committed to walking alongside families every step of the adoption journey. We will continue to work closely with U.S. consulates, partner governments, and adoption authorities to advocate for timely processing and the best interests of children.
We are grateful for this clear affirmation of support for intercountry adoption and hope this guidance brings encouragement and confidence to families currently in process or considering adoption.
This outcome did not happen by chance. It is the direct result of families, advocates, agencies, and supporters raising their voices, contacting representatives, and standing up for children waiting to come home. Your advocacy mattered, and it made a difference. Thank you for speaking up, praying, sharing, and advocating with persistence and hope.
Above all, we give thanks and glory to God, whose faithfulness sustains families through seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and hope. We are grateful for His guidance, provision, and the many ways He works through the prayers and advocacy of His people to bring children home to loving families.
As always, we invite families to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.