How to Adopt Internationally
Step-by-Step Process
Hand in Hand
International adoption with Hand in Hand follows a 12-step process beginning with research and ending with post-adoption support. Key steps include completing a home study, filing immigration paperwork with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), submitting a dossier to your child’s country, receiving and accepting a child referral, travel, and finalization. The full process typically takes 1–3 years depending on the country. Hand in Hand guides families through every step with a dedicated caseworker.
- Ethical & Child-Centered
- 50+ Years of Experience
How International Adoption Works
International adoption involves several important stages including education, home study preparation, matching, travel, placement, and post-placement support. Our team guides families through every step.
The 12 Steps
1. Research
Learn what to expect. Read about international adoption, compare country requirements and fees, and choose the agency that is right for you.
2. Meet Your Caseworker
Your Hand in Hand caseworker will guide your entire adoption journey and answer every question along the way.
3. Application
Submit your application, disclosure statement, fee agreement, most recent tax return (1040), family photo, and application fee.
4. Review Process
Hand in Hand reviews and approves your application. You receive a welcome letter and are officially part of the Hand in Hand family.
5. Home Study
Complete your international home study through Hand in Hand or an approved local agency. Adoptive parent training also happens at this stage.
6. File I-800A
We help you file your I-800A with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — the first immigration step for your child.
7. Compile & File Dossier
Work with your caseworker to gather all documents required by the foreign country. Hand in Hand arranges translation into the country’s language.
8. Review & Match
The foreign country reviews your dossier. Once approved, you wait for a child referral. You then accept or decline the proposed match.
9. File I-800
The second immigration step with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition classifies your child as an immediate relative and requests immigration pre-approval.
10. Prepare
With your match confirmed, prepare your home and life for your child’s arrival. Continue learning about your child’s country of origin with your caseworker’s guidance.
11. Travel
Travel to meet and bring home your child. Some countries require two trips; others require one. You will spend 7–45 days in your child’s home country.
12. Post-Adoption
Return home as a family. Schedule required post-adoption visits with your social worker. Hand in Hand remains your resource for the long road ahead.
OUR STORY
Adoption Realities
Bringing a child into your home through adoption changes their world from one with little hope to one of endless possibilities. International adoption also adds complexity and uncertainty for families. Children may need time to adjust to a new language, culture, and family. Many children have special needs requiring extra care and energy. Hand in Hand discusses all realities with you to ensure international adoption is right for your family.
International adoption is one path to building a family through adoption — but it is not the only one. If your heart is drawn to adopting a newborn domestically, or if you are a birth mother exploring your options, Heart to Heart Adoptions is a licensed nonprofit domestic infant adoption agency based in Utah that supports both adoptive families and birth mothers across the United States. The two paths are different, and we want every family to find the one that is truly right for them.
Fees
International adoptions through Hand in Hand generally range from $17,000 to $40,000 depending on the country and your state of residence.
Countries We Serve
We partner with select international programs focused on ethical adoption and child-centered care.
Adopt from Brazil
The #1 U.S. program in Brazil — specializing in siblings, older children, and families ready to keep brothers and sisters together.
Adopt from Bulgaria
A transparent, Hague-accredited process with shorter timelines for children over three and those with special needs.
Adopt from Haiti
A program with deep roots — Hand in Hand has guided Haitian adoptions since 1990, including relative adoptions.
Adopt from Hong Kong
Our newest program focuses on children with special placement needs. Finalization happens in the U.S. after you return home.
Adopt from Hungary
Hand in Hand’s newest country program. Contact us to learn about current openings and requirements.
Hand in Hand walked beside us through every step of the process. We felt supported, informed, and cared for from beginning to end.
THE MILLER FAMILY
Adoptive Parents
Frequently Asked Questions About International Adoption
How long does international adoption take?
International adoption timelines vary by country and program, typically ranging from 1 to 4 years. Factors include home study completion, country-specific requirements, and administrative processes. Our team will give you a realistic timeline for your chosen country.
What countries do you work with?
We currently work with Colombia, China, Philippines, Bulgaria, Ecuador, and Hong Kong. Each program has unique requirements and timelines. Visit our Countries page for detailed information on each program.
What is a home study?
A home study is a thorough assessment of your family conducted by a licensed social worker. It includes background checks, home visits, interviews, and documentation. It is required for all international adoptions.
How much does international adoption cost?
Can single parents adopt internationally?
What support do you provide after placement?
Ready to Begin Your
Adoption Journey?
Our team is here to answer your questions and help you explore the next step for your family.