Getting Started

The Adoption Process

Immigration & Naturalization Services

The Dossier

Authentication

Adopt the Child

Post Placement and Naturalization

International Adoption FAQ

How to Apply

Getting Started with International Adoption

Over the past five years things have changed dramatically for families wanting to adopt a child through inter country adoptions. Many countries have opened their doors to Americans wanting to adopt and children of all ages, genders and color have found loving homes. Last year alone, over 14,000 foreign born children were adopted by American families.

This number will continue to increase as foreign countries and the United States government work together to make the international adoption process safer and easier for adoptive families. Despite the fact that more and more children are adopted through inter country adoptions, the process is still emotional, complex, expensive and uncertain. Before you consider international adoption, you should evaluate your motives for adoption and educate yourself about the risks involved.

International adoptions are not for the faint of heart. Because of the capricious nature of foreign governments, there are a lot of things over which agencies have no control. Political strife, changes in adoption requirements, language barriers and economic situations can put an adoption on hold. Often there is very little medical or genetic information about children from foreign countries. Children who have lived in poverty and/or institutions may have developmental delays, emotional trauma, nutritional concerns and exposure to serious illness or disease. These problems are sometimes either misdiagnosed or unidentified due to lack of medical technology and medical histories in the foreign country.

Last of all, one of the most important things to remember about international adoption is that it is "forever". Once the adoption is finalized, that child is yours the same as if he/she was born into your family. These children come as a prepackaged bundle of personality, joys and problems. They desperately need homes, and any effort to help these children is good and noble. However, as prospective parents, education and self evaluation are the keys to a successful placement. Preparation for an international adoption begins NOW. Think about what you expect from an inter country adoption and how you picture the child of your dreams. Ponder how racial issues might affect your family. Consider what medical needs you are able to accept in a child. Evaluate all of your expectations with your mind and your heart. If getting a healthy child is the most important thing to you, international adoption may not be where your child is. If you are emotionally and financially unable to deal with the ups and downs of international adoption it may be better to look at other options for adoption. Only you know what your limitations are.

Wasatch International Adoptions is here to help you any way we can as you contemplate international adoption. We know this is a very important decision which you are considering and we understand your excitement, fears and concerns. We also know that not everyone is a suitable candidate for international adoption. Understanding your desires for a child, becoming well informed and counseling with knowledgeable and experienced adoption professionals can help you make the right decision for your family.