Are you planning to adopt a child from Bulgaria? Adopting from another country is a big decision for any family. You will need to complete forms, meet requirements, and follow several steps. Learning what to expect can make the process easier to understand.
If you are researching Bulgaria international adoption, a Hague-accredited agency can help you understand the process and requirements. Children’s House International (CHI) is a Hague-accredited non-profit adoption agency.
Who Can Adopt From Bulgaria?
At Children’s House International (CHI), we work with families who want to adopt from Bulgaria. Our Bulgaria adoption program allows married couples and single applicants to adopt, if they meet Bulgarian and U.S. requirements.
What Children Are Waiting for Families?
Children waiting for adoption in Bulgaria are usually 18 months to 15 years old. Some children are part of sibling groups. Others may have medical or special needs.
Children may come from Bulgarian, Roma, or Turkish backgrounds. Every child is different. Families should learn about a child’s needs before accepting a referral.
Bulgaria Adoption Process
The process starts with an application and home study. You then work on U.S. immigration approval and gather the papers needed for your adoption file. After your documents are sent to Bulgaria, you may wait for a child referral to be issued.
When you receive a referral, you can ask questions about the child. You can also talk with a doctor about the child’s health before making your decision.
What Will We Need to Travel?
Bulgaria’s international adoption usually requires two trips. The first trip lasts about 5–7 days and allows the family to meet the child. About 4–6 months later, the family returns for a 10–12-day trip to complete the adoption and bring the child home.
How Long Will the Process Take?
There is no set time for every family. The wait may depend on the child you hope to adopt and the needs you are open to. At CHI, we also offer waiting-child options for families who may be open to older children, sibling groups, or children with special needs.
How Can CHI Help?
International adoption means adhering to the rules in both countries. An agency can help you understand these rules, prepare your papers, and learn what to expect at each stage.
At CHI, we have worked with Bulgaria since the 1990s and have professional partners there. Before you begin, ask questions and learn what the process may look like for your family. Good planning can help you take each step with confidence. Contact us to learn more.
Call us at 360-383-0623.

