Sierra Leone Adoption Fast Facts

Wondering how to adopt from Sierra Leone? Find statistics, prospective parent requirements, and an average budget and timeline.

The flag of Sierra Leone, representing Sierra Leone adoption

Adoptive parents are currently required to be a resident of Sierra Leone for six months and to attend the court hearing for the adoption; however, this requirement can be waived at the discretion of the High Court of Sierra Leone.

For more up-to-date information on adoption from Sierra Leone, visit the Sierra Leone page of the U.S. State Department’s website. Get parent-to-parent advice and support in the International Adoptive Families group in our online community, Adoptive Families Circle.


Search the National Infertility & Adoption Directory for adoption agencies placing children from Sierra Leone.


Sierra Leone Adoption Fast Facts

  • 2016 Adoptions: 22 children
  • Hague Country: No
  • Estimated Total Cost: Unknown
  • Profile of Children: 39% of children are between 5 and 12 years old. 50% are girls (2015). The child must be under 17 years old. Children 16 and older must consent to the adoption.
  • Parent Ages: Unless related to the child, one of the adoptive parents must be at least twenty-five years old and twenty-one years older than the child.
  • Family Status: Married couples and single women may adopt.
  • Travel: Parents are commonly required to be a resident of Sierra Leone for six months.
  • Timeline: The process for adopting from Sierra Leone can take anywhere from six months to two years.

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