India Adoption
![[India Adoption]](/images/indiaadoption.jpg)
An Overview
In 2007, there were 416 U.S. visas issued to children adopted from India. Most relinquished children in India are from unwed mothers or from families too poor to care for them. As a result of gender discrimination, the majority of children adopted by Americans are girls. Guidelines in India are flexible, based on the needs of the child. By adopting a child from India, non-Indian parents need to accept that they are choosing a child of a different culture.
India gives preference to adoptions by Indian families, especially those still holding an Indian passport. Citizens of countries other than India must work through an adoption agency in their home country that appears on a list of agencies approved by the Indian government. Only these "enlisted" agencies may make children available for adoption by foreigners. View the list of approved agencies at adoptionindia.nic.in.
Once a family accepts a child, the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), the governing body in India, must approve the match. The actual adoption of the child takes place in the U.S., according to the laws of the state in which the family resides.
Fast Facts:
Number of Adoptions from India:
- 2007: 416
- 2006: 320
- 2005: 323
- 2004: 394
- 2003: 472
- 2002: 466
- 2001: 543
- 2000: 503
- 1999: 500
Profile of Children Adopted From India in 2006
Source: INS Immigration Statistics
64% Female
7% under 1 year of age
70% 1 – 4 years of age
Estimated Cost: $20,000
Profile of Children: Children range in age from 1 year to preteens. Youngest children often have diagnosed medical problems. Nearly 70% are 1 to 4 years old at time of adoption.
Parent Ages: Married couples having a composite age of 90 years or less can adopt an infant or young child. The age of any one prospective adoptive parent may not exceed 55 years. Single persons up to age 45 may also adopt, but it is preferable to be 30 to 35.
Family Status: Married couples must be in a stable relationship of five years. Singles may adopt, as well.
Travel: At least one parent must travel to India to adopt the child. Time spent in the country can vary from 8 to 12 days.
Timeline: From completed dossier to placement, approximately 18 to 24 months, but can be longer.
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