Learn about children our adoption team met in the Philippines! Read More →
laughing boy holding parents hands on a beach

Adopt from South Africa

Launched in 2021, the South Africa program is Holt’s newest international adoption program.

On This Page:

Many children in South Africa are now waiting for a permanent, loving family.

In South Africa, children waiting for families are typically between 2-8 years old at the time they join their adoptive families and have minor to major developmental, physical or emotional special needs. Holt is one of three U.S. adoption agencies approved to unite children from South Africa with eligible families in the U.S. Alongside our partner Wandisa — a well-respected and child-centered organization local to South Africa — we will work to ensure you feel informed and prepared every step of the way.

Children in South Africa Who Need Families

  • Children have minor to major developmental, physical or emotional special needs.
  • Most children are between the ages of 2-8 years old at the time of placement.
  • Older children (5+) who may or may not have special needs other than age are also waiting to be matched with families. 
  • Children may have been born prematurely, have a history of abuse or neglect, or be malnourished. 
  • The most common needs among children in South Africa include HIV, fetal alcohol exposure and needs related to the trauma and loss they’ve experienced. Children with more involved special needs are also waiting for families through Holt’s waiting child photolisting. Learn more about Disabilities & Medical Conditions in Special Needs Adoption.
waiting child photo listing graphics

Meet the children waiting for a family

To preserve children’s confidentiality, you will be asked to log in or sign up before you access the waiting child photolisting.

Eligibility Requirements & Fees

couple sitting at home viewing virtual adoption financing webinar on their laptop

Need help funding your adoption?

Families adopting through Holt receive free, professional guidance and support from a one-on-one finance coach throughout their adoption process. Even if you’re just considering adoption, email us to set up your first consultation today!

Stories About Adoption from South Africa

South Africa Adoption FAQs

Vietnam children in orphanage waiting to be adopted

Help Protect International Adoption for Children

Your gift today will help a child be adopted, care for them while they wait, and even ensure that they receive critical post-adoption help for life!

Start Your Journey in Adoption

Whether you are considering adoption or are ready to apply to adopt, we have many free ways for you to explore our programs or get started.

Request Free Adoption Information

Click below to complete our inquiry form or email us at [email protected] to connect with one of our adoption specialists.

Adoption Info Meetings

Check out our free, virtual adoption information meetings open to families in all 50 states!

Apply Online

Ready to start your adoption journey? The first step is to create a Holt portal account, then submit an application. Click below to log in or create a new portal account. If you’re already in touch with Holt or have worked with Holt previously and do not have a portal login, email [email protected] to access your account!

Hear What Families Have to Say About Adopting Through Holt

Inquire About South Africa Adoption

Holt is ready to answer your questions! It only takes a few minutes to submit your inquiry. Our adoption specialists will be in touch with you within one business day.

Holt International is a Hague-accredited agency with adoption programs in these locations: