International Adoption is just one of several ways to build your family. However, the process can be complex, paperwork-intensive, and expensive. The waiting time for inter-country adoption, including the home study, U.S. Citizenship, and Immigration Services (USCIS – formerly INS) approval process, can take from one to three years. Adoptions of children with special needs may lower fees and shorten waiting periods.

There are a number of countries that work with U.S. couples hoping to adopt, so identifying which country works best for your family is usually the first step you would take when moving forward. In Wisconsin, a licensed adoption agency must complete your home study. Things to consider when adopting internationally are: age, gender, race, medical needs.

If you're unsure about what would work best with your family, a qualified adoption professional should be able to assist you in identifying the most important requirements, which will ultimately assist you in deciding what country program will work best for you. Popular countries from which to adopt include Guatemala, China, Russia, Ethiopia, Haiti, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Liberia, Colombia, India, and recently Vietnam.

For more information about international adoption please view the links below. We are available to help you with your questions or concerns. Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-762-8063, or email us at: info@wiadoptioninfocenter.org.

Stories of Inspiration
Adoption Attorney List
How to Make Adoption Affordable
International Handbook
Joint Council on International Children’s Services