Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the adoption process take?
The entire adoption process depends on the country you're adopting from. If adopting from China, at this time the process takes two years. From India, the process takes approximately a year.
What are the age requirements for adoption?
For India the requirements are parents must be between 27-40 years old to be referred a child under one and a half. Parents 40-44 years are referred toddlers and older children. For China parents between 30-49 years will likely be referred a infant girl. Parents between the age of 50-60 are likely to be referred a toddler or older child.
Do I need to readopt in the US?
If both parents were able to travel to the country and see the child prior Typically your child will be granted an IR 3 visa if both parents were able to travel to the country and see the child prior to adoption. If only one or none parent saw the child prior to adoption, then your child will be granted IR 4 visa. the adoption is complete overseas, and the US recognizes that as a valid adoption and does not require families to readopt. IFI recommends readoption regardless of the type of visa your child received.
Are there any financial assistance offered to families adopting?
On June 7, 2001 The Hope For Children Act was signed as part of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Recommendation Act of 2001 by President Bush. This new law states that families are now eligible for a tax credit of up to $10,000.
If your annual income is $150,00 or less, you are eligible for the full tax credit amount. If your annual income exceeds $150,000, you are eligible for a portion of the tax credit amount. For complete details on the adoption tax credit please visit www.irs.gov.
Do I have to travel to escort my child?
China and Nepal require at least one parent to travel to the country to escort their child. India does not require either parent to be present to escort their child.
Do you work with families in different states?
We have offices based in DC, Maryland, New York, Washington; but we also take families from all over the country, even if they don't live in those states. We collaborate with other intercountry adoption organizations to provide adoption services for families in all states.
My spouse is not a US citizen, can we still adopt?
Yes it is a law and policy that at least one person or spouse must be an American citizen to qualify international or national adoption. Other wise the USCIS will not permit the entry visa to the child.
Can a single person adopt?
Yes singles are allowed to adopt. Single women can choose either gender of a child. But when single man wants to adopt, there are some restrictions. Please contact us for details on these restrictions.
Books/DVDs
Adopting a Toddler
by Denise Harris Hoppenhauer
Adoption Parenting : Creating a Toolbox, Building Connections
by Sheena Macrae
Raising Adopted Children, Revised Edition : Practical Reassuring Advice for Every Adoptive Parent
by Lois Ruskai Melina
Adoption Explained: International (DVD)
|
