From your Heart
to your Home
Use the checklist below
to get organized and gather materials.

If you’re reading this, you’ve come a long way toward adopting your child. Don’t worry if you
have unanswered questions– that’s to be expected and we’re here to answer them.
We know that there is a lot of information to absorb, and we encourage you
to call us with any questions.

The first steps in the adoption process involve locating and submitting a great deal of personal information and documents. This may seem overwhelming at first, but we have designed this packet to help you get your adoption going as quickly as possible. On the back of this sheet you’ll find a checklist to help you gather and organize your materials.

“Getting Started” Checklist

Here are some items you may need to prepare or consider in advance with your application for adoption:
• International Adoption Services Agreement, signed and notarized (Holt will mail you a copy of this agreement to sign, notarize and return.)
• One 4x6 photo of each of the following (please label each photo):
• Family photo with all family members living in the home
• Photo of the exterior of your home
These photos may be sent overseas and need not be professional, but must be current and good quality. Additional photos may later be required by some country programs.
• One copy of page one of your last three years’ Federal Income Tax Returns (Form 1040 or 1040A).
• Enclose application fee—$300 (please see note below)

Items To Begin Collecting For The Dossier:
This is a collection of documents which represents the adoptive family to the overseas government. Requirements for the dossier vary by country and program. When you apply for a child from a particular country, we will provide you information regarding the specific contents of your dossier.

In the meantime, you can start gathering some of the basic documents that you will need for your dossier. Generally, three copies of each are sufficient.
• Certified birth certificates
• Certified marriage certificate
• Certified death certificate of spouse (if applicable)
• Certified divorce decree(s) (if applicable)

Note: If you’d like to apply for Holt’s Waiting Child Program only
Note:  To begin adoption processing for a waiting child only, apply to Holt’s Waiting Child Program  Completing the application through the Waiting Child Program (WCP) and paying the WCP fee of $50 allows you to request more detailed information on specific waiting children. (The application fee balance of $250 is due when you are matched with a waiting child.)