Hague-Accredited Adoption

Adopting a child from another country can be a big step for a family. It can also bring many questions. What should you do first? What forms are needed? What happens after you are matched with a child?

A Hague-accredited adoption agency can help you understand these steps. The Hague Adoption Convention is meant to help protect children and families during international adoption.

Children’s House International (CHI) is a non-profit international adoption agency. It was founded in Utah in 1975 and became fully Hague accredited in 2009. We have helped more than 3,000 children find loving homes around the world. Currently, our agency works with families in six states and offers adoption programs in many countries. Our team includes adoption professionals and people who have adopted children themselves.

Learn About the Adoption Programs

Start by learning about the countries where you may adopt. Each country has its own rules. The rules may cover the child’s age, health, family needs, and parent requirements.

Choose an Adoption Program

After you choose a program, you can apply to the adoption agency. Upon contacting us, our staff will explain the next steps, forms, costs, and rules based on the country you choose. This is also a good time to ask questions. You should feel clear about what will happen before you move ahead.

Complete Your Home Study

Home study is an important part of the adoption process. A social worker will learn about your family, home, health, work, and finances. At CHI, we provide home study services in several states. Families in other states may work with a local Hague-accredited agency. The social worker may:

Meet with you and your family
Visit your home
Ask questions about your life
Review the needed records
Check your background

Home study and placement services are separate. Even if CHI does not provide home study services in your state, you can still work with us for placement through one of our international adoption programs.

Complete the Required Forms

International adoption involves a lot of paperwork. You may need birth, marriage, financial, and medical records, along with background checks. We can help you understand which documents are required and when they must be submitted.

Receive a Child Referral

You may receive a referral with information about a child who may be a match for your family. Take time to read the child’s information and learn about their needs.

Complete the Adoption and Bring Your Child Home

The final steps may include additional paperwork, legal work, travel, and compliance with other country rules. After adoption, families may also have post-adoption reports or support.

We Can Help You

A Hague-accredited adoption agency can guide you through each stage and help you understand what comes next. Children’s House International has experience with international adoption and can help families learn more about available programs and services.