India Adoption

Country-specific adoption information for parents considering adopting from India.

India lifted a temporary suspension on processing new dossiers in January 2012. new guidelines dictate that dossiers must now be submitted directly to the Central Adoption Resource Authority in India, and U.S. adoptive parents must work through a service provider approved by the Indian government. Preference is given to families of Indian origin.

For more information, visit www.adoption.state.gov. View photos and get parent-to-parent advice in our online community, www.adoptivefamiliescircle.com.

India Adoption Requirements and Facts:

• 2011 adoptions: 226 children
• Hague Accredited: Yes
• Estimated Total Cost: $20,000 to $35,000
• Profile of Children: 72% are one year to four years old at time of adoption (2010). Youngest children often have medical diagnoses.
• Parent Ages: Married couples must be 30 to 55 years old, with a combined age of 90 or younger. Prospective parents must be at least 21 years older than the child. Singles up to age 45 may also adopt.
• Family Status: Married couples must be in a stable relationship for a minimum of five years. Singles may adopt. Lesbian and gay couples cannot adopt.
• Travel: Both parents must travel to attend the court hearing if adoption is completed in India.
• Timeline: From completed dossier to placement, approximately 12 to 24 months, but can be longer.

India Adoption Directory

Find an adoption agency placing children from India in your state

Helpful Articles from Adoptive Families Magazine

• Journey Into Our Son's Culture
  "Visiting our son in the orphanage where he lived revealed the humbling truth that he'll leave behind a lovely way of life."
• Journey to Calcutta
  "Despite my parents' urging, I had always rejected my Indian identity. At 21, I learned to embrace it."
• Misunderstanding Mongolian Spots
  It's a good idea to ask your pediatrician to make a note of your child's Mongolian spots, found commonly among people of East Indian descent.
• A Fearless Love
  A mother's story of adopting a girl from India.
• Raising a Child of Another Race
  Deliberate parenting can make a difference.

Helpful Web Resources for India Adopters

• Yahoo! I Child list
• U.S. State Department Country Adoption

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