If you are hoping to adopt a child from Colombia, you may have many questions. Learning about the process can help you know what to expect next. Working with an experienced and Hague-accredited adoption agency can help you understand the process and the steps you need to take.
Children’s House International (CHI) offers an adoption program in Colombia for families that meet its requirements. Colombia has its own set of adoption rules. We have over 5000 children currently waiting for adoption with us. Colombia is also home to people from different ethnicities. Children may have Latin-Colombian, African-Colombian, or European-Colombian heritage.
Guide to Adopting a Child from Colombia
Children waiting for families in Colombia are often 8 years old or older. Sibling groups may also be available, with at least one child in the group being older. Children under age 8 who are available for adoption will likely have medium to major special needs.
The process includes:
Fill the Adoption Application
The first step is to apply to CHI’s Colombia program. You can also talk with our team about the program and your adoption goals.
Check your eligibility
- Applicants should be 25 to 60 years old.
- Single women and men can adopt.
- Colombian citizens or those born in Colombia with a birth certificate may qualify to adopt a healthy, young child.
- Married couples should have been married for at least two years.
- Parents must be at least 15 years older than the child and no more than 50 years older. Some exceptions may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- A psychological evaluation is required. Health and mental health concerns are also reviewed. Adoptive parents must have no criminal record. Some minor offenses from their past may be reviewed.
Complete a Home Study
Next, you will need to complete a home study. A social worker will talk to you about your family, home, health, work, and reasons to adopt. In states where CHI provides home study services, the home study may be conducted by a CHI social worker. If you live elsewhere, we can help you find a Hague-accredited social worker in your area.
Prepare Your Documents
You will need to collect many documents for your adoption file, called a dossier. Documents may require an apostille and a translation before being sent to Colombia. Colombia’s Central Authority, ICBF, reviews the dossier.
Wait for a Child Referral
After your dossier is approved, ICBF may refer a child to your family. CHI will share the referral with you. Our current program mainly serves children ages 6 to 17, including children with special needs and sibling groups.
Travel to Colombia
After you accept a referral and complete the required U.S. steps, you will travel to Colombia. The family may be required to stay for about 4 to 6 weeks. The entire adoption process may take 18 to 36 months, though this may vary.
Want to Adopt a Child? Contact Us
To adopt a child from Colombia, you need patience, careful planning, and the right support. CHI is here to guide families through the process, from the first application to bringing their child home.
If Colombia may be the right program for your family, learning the steps early can help you feel ready for what comes next. Contact us for more information.
Call us at 360-383-0623.