International Relative Adoption
Adopt a family member living in China, Haiti, Hong Kong, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines or Vietnam!
At Holt, we understand the importance of kinship ties and believe that every child should have the opportunity to grow up in the family and culture of their birth. When children come into our partners’ care overseas, we first strive to reunite them with their birth family — whether their parents, grandparents or other relatives — before pursuing in-country or international adoption. For individuals who live in the U.S. and hope to adopt a child in their extended family overseas, we also offer international relative adoption!
Learn about our international relative adoption services by country below, or contact us at [email protected] or at 1-888-355-4658 to speak to a Holt adoption specialist!
Learn About Relative Adoption by Country
China Relative Adoption
In 2024, China suspended its international adoption program, but families are still eligible to adopt relatives within three degrees of kinship living in China. China’s relative adoption program takes an average of 2-3+ years to complete, and both parents (or single women) must be at least 30 years of age at the time of dossier submission. View the details below to learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from China
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly, depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the China program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss any questions you have with Holt staff.
Relationship to Adoptive Parents
- For relative adoptions, families can only adopt relatives related by blood.
- The adopter must be within three degrees of kinship of the adoptee, meaning an adoptive parent must share a common grandparent with the adoptee. Cross-generational adoption is not allowed.
- Only children of siblings and first cousins can be adopted.
Age of Adoptive Parents
- Both parents must be at least 30 years of age at the time of dossier submission.
- There can be up to a 50-year age difference between the child and the younger spouse.
- Single women may be eligible to adopt.
Length of Marriage
If married, a couple must be married for at least three years and adopt jointly with their spouse.
Divorce
No more than two divorces between the couple are allowed.
Children in Family
The youngest child must be at least 3 years of age at the time of dossier submission. There may be up to five children under the age of 18 in the home.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
China requires a minimum annual income of $30,000, plus $10,000 for each child currently in the home. Parents must include proof of income. Couples must also have a net worth of $80,000, and singles must have a net worth of $100,000. Families should have a stable residence, legitimate employment and sufficient financial means to support a child, taking into account income, personal savings, taxes, etc.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is a part of both the homestudy and dossier process.
In addition:
- China requires that the body mass index (BMI) of each applicant does not exceed 40.
- If one spouse is healthy, China is open to a chronic, well-controlled medical condition in the other spouse.
- If an applicant has had skin, thyroid, breast or testicular cancer, China requires that they be cancer free for at least three years. For other types of cancer, the applicant must be cancer free for at least five years.
If you have any current medical conditions or a history of any major illness, surgery or disorder, or if you’d like to discuss any other questions regarding your health, please contact Holt prior to applying.
Mental Health
China is open to one or both applicants with a well-controlled mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression, with a positive mental health letter from a doctor.
FAQs on China Relative Adoption
<strong>What overseas entities are involved in this process</strong>?
China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs will need to approve the child’s eligibility for intercountry adoption. The family may need an attorney in China to assist with document preparation. Holt will work collaboratively with the attorney, prospective adoptive family and Ministry of Civil Affairs.
<strong>If I already have found a child whom I want to adopt, can Holt help with the process</strong>?
For this process, Holt will only accept cases in which a prospective adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative and your case meets the other eligibility requirements (listed above), then Holt can assist with your case.
<strong>What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted</strong>?
The relative adoption process in China is rather lengthy. Because of this, cases can be risky if the child is 13-15 years old when the process begins, as a child may age out of eligibility to be adopted. Please consult with Holt staff for more information regarding the risks of pursuing the adoption. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children who are already 15 years old or older.
<strong>I want to adopt the child because the birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify</strong>?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons, and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to obtain approval from China and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child. Documentation will be required.
<strong>Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt</strong>?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, officials in China and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, U.S. visa processing at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
<strong>How long does it take to adopt a child from China</strong>?
Time frames for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average time frames:
- 6-9 months for adoptive family homestudy and dossier completion
- 6-12+ months for child background assessment completion by attorney to prepare documents for court
- 6-9 months between match and travel, depending on USCIC visa processing time frames and court hearing
- 2-3+ years TOTAL time frame
<strong><strong><strong>What is a homestudy</strong></strong>?</strong>
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report, evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, adoptive parent trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier; however, the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.) Homestudies for China must be done by a Hague- or COA-accredited agency.
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal history checks
- Child abuse registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (unless that particular country does not have a child abuse registry)
- Meeting agency eligibility requirements
- Meeting government requirements, based on child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical and mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture
- Resources available to meet the needs of the child
<strong>What is a dossier</strong>?
Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents and some that will be gathered from other sources. China requires certain dossier forms to be completed and certain formats to be followed to verify information in a uniform way. After your homestudy report is completed, you will finish gathering the dossier documents and any other documents requested by the court in China. All dossier documents including the homestudy are required to be certified at the state level.
<strong>Am I required to travel to China</strong>?
At least one adoptive parent is required to travel to China to receive placement of the child. If only one parent in a married couple travels, the non-traveling spouse must authorize a Power of Attorney prior to travel.
<strong><strong>What can I expect for travel</strong></strong>?
You will likely be required to be in China for approximately two weeks, although the length of your trip may vary. Some families choose to arrive earlier or stay longer, which is not a problem.
<strong><strong>When is the adoption final</strong></strong>?
The adoption is finalized in China, and children will travel to the U.S. on an IR-3 visa.
<strong><strong>Are post-adoption reports required</strong></strong>?
Yes. Post-adoption visits from your direct social worker will take place at 1 month, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months after placement. You will also be required to submit annual child updates to Holt at 3 years, 4 years and 5 years after the arrival of your child in the U.S. It is also highly recommended that you readopt the child in a U.S. court of law.
Haiti Relative Adoption
The Haiti Adoption Program is Paused
Due to the current conditions in Haiti, intake for the Haiti program is currently closed and Holt’s Haiti adoption program is not accepting standard process applications. Contact us at [email protected] to learn about Holt’s other country programs and the children who need families!
Holt has helped unite children in Haiti with their relatives in the U.S. since 2014. The process takes on average 3-4 years and adoptive parent eligibility may be flexible. See the information below to learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from Haiti
Eligibility criteria for adoption is set by your state, the U.S. government and the foreign country you are adopting from. Here are some important regulations specific to the Haiti program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss any questions you have with Holt’s Haiti program staff.
Age of Adoptive Parents
Parents generally must be between the ages of 30-50 to adopt from Haiti. However, for relative adoptions, there is no age requirement or limit.
Length of Marriage
IBESR requires that couples be married for at least five years, married for a combination of some years co-habiting together and then married, or co-habiting together for longer than five years. Applicants must be able to document co-habitation requirements through proof of living together (rental agreement, mortgage or some document attested to by someone in authority). If this applies to you, please contact Holt’s Haiti program to discuss.
Divorce
One divorce per each prospective adoptive parent is accepted.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
Applicants must not go below USCIS poverty guideline standards.
Physical Health
IBESR requires a positive medical letter and labs to be done for the family dossier. If you have any current medical conditions or history of any major illness, surgery, disorder, or would like to discuss any other questions regarding health, please contact the Haiti program prior to applying. IBESR may be more flexible with relative adoptions than non-relative adoptions, however we cannot know this unless we inquire with Haiti in advance.
Mental Health
If either prospective adoptive parent is currently taking any mental health medication (i.e., anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication), they will most likely not be eligible. If one applicant has a history of medication use that was very mild and brief, and over five years ago, families may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the Haiti program prior to applying.
A psycho-social letter, written by a licensed psychologist, is required for the Haiti family dossier.
Single Applicants
Parent must be at least 35 years old.
FAQs on Haiti Relative Adoption
What overseas agencies are involved in the relative adoption process from Haiti?
Holt has staff members living and working in Haiti. Our staff represent families to IBESR, Haiti’s central adoption authority, which oversees all child welfare systems in the country, including international relative adoptions.
What is the maximum age a relative child can be adopted?
At 3-4 years on average, the relative adoption process in Haiti is rather lengthy. Children also age out of eligibility for international adoption once they turn 17. Because of this, cases can be risky if the process is started when the child is close to aging out. Please consult Holt’s Haiti program staff before pursuing relative adoption for a child around this age or older.
I want to adopt the child because their birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not generally considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove to U.S. immigration why the birth parents can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). It’s also extremely difficult to obtain approval from Haitian and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child.
Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, Holt Haiti, IBESR and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, U.S. immigration and/or the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti will ultimately decide whether to issue a visa for a relative child’s adoption. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, U.S. immigration and/or the U.S. Embassy is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
How long does it take to adopt a relative child from Haiti?
Timeframes for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average timeframes:
- 3-6+ months for homestudy and dossier completion
- 6+ months for IBESR to approve the dossier and child match
- 12+ months between match and travel, depending on USCIS visa processing timeframes
- Approximately 3-4 years TOTAL timeframe
What is a homestudy?
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker licensed in your state from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, group trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork, and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier, however the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.)
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal History checks
- Child Abuse Registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (Unless that particular country does not have a Child Abuse Registry.)
- Meet agency eligibility requirements
- Meet government requirements, based on child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical & mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture
- Resources available to meet the needs of child
<strong>What is a dossier?</strong>
There are two dossiers a family is required to prepare for a Haiti relative adoption.
- Child’s Dossier — This is the family’s responsibility to prepare in Haiti on behalf of the child. Holt does not assist with gathering these documents. We recommend families seek legal advice in Haiti from a lawyer who is knowledgeable about adoption/intercountry adoption. Once completed, this child dossier will be submitted to Holt Haiti staff by the family and/or the family adoption lawyer in Haiti.
- Family Dossier — Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents, and some that will be gathered from other sources. Compared to most country programs, the dossier required for the Haiti program is moderately difficult and there is a complex authentication process that families are required to take the dossier through for finalization. Families should be able to prepare many of their dossier documents during the same time it takes to complete the homestudy process.
Am I required to travel to Haiti to adopt a relative?
Haiti has a two-trip adoption process, which is the same for both relative and non-relative international adoptions. Haitian law requires that both parents travel on the first trip, which is a two-week socialization trip at which time the family will be interviewed by an IBESR social worker. Only one parent is required to travel for the second trip, though two parents are always encouraged to travel. During this trip, a family will receive the child into their physical custody. This trip generally lasts 6-7 days.
When is the adoption final?
The adoption will be final in Haiti. The required post-adoption reporting period is registered at 1 month, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months and 24 months. Additionally, families are legally expected by Haitian law to complete an annual report every year until a child turns 18 years old.
Hong Kong Relative Adoption
Holt’s relative adoption program takes an average of 2-3+ years to complete. Adoptive parent eligibility is flexible and allows for single applicants. Learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more below!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from Hong Kong
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly, depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the Hong Kong program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss any questions you have with Holt staff.
Relationship to Adoptive Parents
- The adopter must be within three degrees of kinship of the adoptee, meaning an adoptive parent must share a common grandparent with the adoptee. Cross-generational adoption is not allowed.
- Only children of siblings and first cousins can be adopted.
States of Residency
Currently, we are only able to accept families in states with Holt branch offices (California, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Washington and Wisconsin) or in states where families partner with Alliance for Children, our approved cooperating agency (Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Texas).
Age of Adoptive Parents
Both parents must be at least 25 years of age at the time of dossier submission. The maximum age is 55, but exceptions are possible.
Length of Marriage
If married, the couple must have been married for at least three years and must adopt jointly with their spouse.
Divorce
A maximum of two divorces per spouse are accepted.
Single Applicants
- Single women and single men with strong support systems may apply.
- Single applicants must be at least 25 years of age at the time of dossier submission.
- Single applicants with children already in the home will be carefully assessed to determine their ability to parent another child with significant special needs.
- Single parents will be required to have a companion when traveling to Hong Kong.
Children in Family
The youngest child in the family must be at least 1 year old at the time of application. There is no limit on the number of children in the home, but larger families will be carefully assessed. Out-of-birth-order placements will also be carefully assessed, especially when the eldest or only child will be displaced.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
Hong Kong requires prospective adoptive parents to provide evidence that their income, after deducting all necessary monthly expenditures, exceeds Hong Kong’s income standards. Known in Hong Kong as the Median Monthly Domestic Household Income, this standard is published in the Quarterly Report on General Household Survey, which can be found on the Hong Kong Census and Statistic Department website.
Prospective adoptive parents residing outside of Hong Kong must submit their tax returns and complete a questionnaire detailing their financial assets. Parents must include proof of income. They must have a stable residence, legitimate employment and sufficient financial means to support a child, taking into account income, personal savings, taxes, etc.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is a part of both the homestudy and dossier process. If you have any current medical conditions or a history of any major illness, surgery or disorder, or if you’d like to discuss any other questions regarding your health, please contact Holt prior to applying. Applicants must be in good to excellent physical health. Medical letters will be required for any identified conditions.
Mental Health
Applicants must be in good mental health. Hong Kong is open to one or both applicants with a well-controlled mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression, with a positive mental health letter from a doctor. Medical letters and psychological evaluations will be required for any identified conditions.
FAQs on Hong Kong Relative Adoption
<strong>What overseas entities are involved in this process</strong>?
One of Holt’s overseas partner agencies will need to approve the child’s eligibility for intercountry adoption. The partner agency will work with the local and national Department of Social Welfare and the Adoption Unit in Hong Kong. Holt will also work collaboratively with our overseas partner agency and prospective adoptive family throughout the process.
<strong>If I already have found a child whom I want to adopt, can Holt help with the process</strong>?
For this process, Holt will only accept cases in which a prospective adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative and your case meets the other eligibility requirements (listed above), then Holt can assist with your case.
<strong>What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted</strong>?
The relative adoption process in Hong Kong is rather lengthy. Because of this, cases can be risky if the child is 13-15 years old when the process begins, as a child may age out of eligibility to be adopted. Please consult with Holt staff for more information regarding the risks of pursuing the adoption. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children who are already 15 years old or older.
<strong>I want to adopt the child because the birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify</strong>?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons, and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to obtain approval from Hong Kong and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child. Documentation will be required.
<strong>Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt</strong>?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, officials in Hong Kong and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the U.S. Embassy in Hong Kong. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, the U.S. Embassy in Hong Kong is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
<strong>How long does it take to adopt a child from Hong Kong</strong>?
Time frames for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average time frames:
- 6-9 months for adoptive family homestudy and dossier completion
- 6-12+ months for child background assessment completion by attorney to prepare documents for court
- 6-9 months between match and travel, depending on USCIC visa processing time frames and court hearing
- 2-3+ years TOTAL time frame
<strong>What is a <strong>homestudy</strong>?</strong>
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report, evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, adoptive parent trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier; however, the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.)
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal history checks
- Child abuse registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (unless that particular country does not have a child abuse registry)
- Meeting agency eligibility requirements
- Meeting government requirements, based on child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical and mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture
- Resources available to meet the needs of the child
<strong>What is a dossier</strong>?
Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents and some that will be gathered from other sources. Hong Kong requires certain dossier forms to be completed and certain formats to be followed to verify information in a uniform way. After your homestudy report is completed, you will finish gathering the dossier documents and any other documents requested by the court in Hong Kong.
<strong>Am I required to travel to Hong Kong</strong>?
At least one adoptive parent is required to travel to Hong Kong to receive placement of the child.
<strong><strong>What can I expect for travel</strong></strong>?
You will likely be required to be in Hong Kong for approximately one week, but the length of your adoption trip may vary. Some families choose to arrive earlier or stay longer, which is not a problem.
<strong><strong>When is the adoption final</strong></strong>?
The adoption is not finalized in Hong Kong. After a series of post-placement visits, the adoption will be finalized in the U.S.
<strong><strong>Are post-placement reports required</strong></strong>?
Yes. Post-placement visits from your direct social worker will occur at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months after placement. Additional reports may be required by your homestudy agency or per state requirements until the child’s adoption is finalized.
<strong><strong>What are the fees for Hong Kong relative adoption</strong></strong>?
We are open and transparent about our fees and want you to be aware of all potential costs involved in an adoption, including third-party costs and travel.
Holt is a Christian, private, nonprofit, licensed and accredited child welfare and family service organization. Our adoption work is entirely financed through adoption fees and donations. It is not government subsidized. We believe that children are the highest priority, and we want as many children as possible to have families. To that end, we strive to keep our fees within a reasonable range. All fees are subject to change and are charged at the rate that is current at time of billing. Holt may increase fees if adoption expenses in the foreign country increase substantially after the time of application. Families will be notified in writing of any fee increase. Holt International accepts the following for adoption fees: check, cashier’s check or money order. If you would like to pay by credit card, there will be a 3% convenience fee added to your total. Fees due upon invoice.
South Africa Relative Adoption
South Africa’s relative adoption program takes an average of 2-3+ years to complete. Families are required to spend approximately 10-12 weeks in South Africa, where they will finalize their adoption. If necessary, one family member may return to the U.S. after a child’s South African passport has been applied for, which is usually about two weeks after the court grants the adoption order. Learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more below!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from <strong>South Africa</strong>
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly, depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the South Africa program. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss any questions you may have with our adoption specialists (or Holt team).
Age of Adoptive Parents
Parents must be at least 25 and no older than 48 years of age to apply for adoption. They must also be at least 15 years older than the child they wish to adopt. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Length of Marriage
There are no restrictions on length of marriage for couples wishing to adopt. Both married couples and individuals in a life partnership are eligible to jointly adopt a child. Single applicants and those in same-sex marriages and same-sex partnerships may also apply for adoption.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
Applicants must meet the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines — 125% of the poverty line. They must also prove to South Africa’s Commissioner of Child Welfare that they are able to support and educate a child before an adoption order is issued. Proof of income is required.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is a part of both the homestudy and dossier process. If you have any current medical conditions or a history of any major illness, surgery or disorder, or if you’d like to discuss any other questions regarding your health, please contact Holt prior to applying. South Africa is more flexible in regard to relative adoptions than to non-relative adoptions, but we may need to inquire with our overseas partners in advance.
Mental Health
Applicants must be in good mental health. However, South Africa is open to one or both applicants with a well-controlled mental health condition, such as anxiety or depression, with a positive mental health letter from a doctor. Medical letters and psychological evaluations will be required for any identified conditions.
FAQs on South Africa Relative Adoption
<strong><strong>What overseas agencies are involved in this process</strong></strong>?
Families will work with Wandisa, Holt’s partner agency in South Africa. Wandisa is a child protection and adoption agency that is approved by the South Africa Central Authority (SACA). SACA is responsible for overseeing all intercountry adoptions from South Africa. Families will also work with an attorney in South Africa.
<strong>If I already know of a child whom I want to adopt, can Holt help with the process</strong>?
For this process, Holt, Wandisa and the South Africa Central Authority will only accept cases in which a prospective adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative and your case meets the other eligibility requirements (listed above), then Holt can assist with your case.
<strong>What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted</strong>?
The relative adoption process in South Africa is rather lengthy. Because of this, cases can be risky if the child is 13-14 years old when the process begins, as a child may age out of eligibility to be adopted. Please consult with Holt’s staff for more information regarding the risks of pursuing the adoption of an older child. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children who are already 14 years old or older.
<strong>I want to adopt the child because the birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify</strong>?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons, and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to obtain approval from South Africa and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child.
<strong>Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt</strong>?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, Wandisa, the South Africa Central Authority and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the U.S. Embassy in Johannesburg. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, the U.S. Embassy is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
<strong>How long does it take to adopt a child from <strong>South Africa</strong></strong>?
Time frames for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average time frames:
- 6-9 months for adoptive family homestudy and dossier completion
- 12-18+ months for child background assessment completion by the child’s legal custodian and the child’s social worker, and submission of the child study report and dossier to Holt’s partner in South Africa and to the South Africa Central Authority for review and approval of the match
- 6-9 months between match and travel, depending on USCIC visa processing time frames
- 2-3+ years TOTAL time frame
What is a homestudy?
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report, evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, adoptive parent trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier; however, the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.)
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal history checks
- Child abuse registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (unless that particular country does not have a child abuse registry)
- Meeting agency eligibility requirements
- Meeting government requirements, based on the child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical and mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture
- Resources available to meet the needs of the child
What is a dossier?
Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents and some that will be gathered from other sources. South Africa requires certain dossier forms to be completed and certain formats to be followed to verify information in a uniform way. After your homestudy report is completed, you will finish gathering the dossier documents and have the whole packet state certified and authenticated before sending all the originals to Holt.
Am I required to travel to <strong>South Africa</strong>?
South African law requires that both adoptive parents travel to South Africa to receive placement of the child. It is recommended that single applicants have a travel companion for a portion of the trip.
What can I expect for travel?
Families will travel to South Africa to meet their child, and while there, they will appear in front of an adoption magistrate who will hear the case and legally finalize the adoption. Families are required to travel to South Africa for approximately 10-12 weeks to complete their adoption. If necessary, one family member may return to the U.S. after a child’s South African passport has been applied for, which is usually about two weeks after the court grants the adoption order.
Families will begin visits with their child as soon as they enter the country. These visits will slowly increase in time as the date of family court approaches. This time is focused on bonding and attachment with the child. After family court, applicants will become the legal parents of their child. Families will then travel to the town of Somerset West, the headquarters of Wandisa, Holt’s partner agency in South Africa. In Somerset West, families will be assisted in having their documents apostilled, completing paperwork for the Department of Home Affairs, and scheduling immigration medicals and visa appointments. The family’s final destination will be the U.S. Consulate in Johannesburg, where they will complete U.S. immigration requirements by appearing for an in-person interview for the child’s visa.
Wandisa staff will assist families during the travel portion of the process. However, families are responsible for their own transportation and accommodations. Wandisa staff will guide families through all adoption-related appointments and will monitor all arrangements regarding the child’s transition into the family.
When is the adoption final?
The adoption is finalized in court in South Africa, and your child will travel to the U.S. on an IR-3 visa.
<strong><strong>Are post-adoption reports required</strong></strong>?
Yes. Post-adoption reports from your direct social worker will be required at 1 month, 6 months, 12 months, 24 months, 42 months and 60 months after placement. Although the adoption will be finalized in South Africa, Holt strongly recommends that families refinalize their adoption once they arrive in the U.S.
Taiwan Relative Adoption
Holt began working with families to adopt relative children from Taiwan in 2019. Typically, parents must be at least 25 and no older than 48 years of age to adopt their relative child, although exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for older children. The process often takes between 2-3+ years in total. Learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more below!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from Taiwan
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly, depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the Taiwan program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss your eligibility with Holt’s Taiwan program staff.
Relationship to Adoptive Parents
- The adopter must be within six degrees of kinship of the adoptee, or within five degrees of kinship by marriage.
- If the adoptive parent is married, their spouse must also adopt the child.
Age of Adoptive Parents
Typically, parents must be at least 25 and no older than 48 years of age. However, in some cases, parents can be up to 55 when adopting an older child. Single parents must be at least 20 years older than the child to be adopted. If married, one spouse must be at least 20 years older than the child to be adopted, and the other spouse must be at least 16 years older.
Length of Marriage
If married, the couple must be married for at least three years and must adopt jointly with their spouse.
There is no official policy or law prohibiting adoptions by LGBTQI+ individuals. On May 16, 2023, Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan amended the same-sex marriage law to allow same-sex couples to adopt children to whom they are not biologically related. The new amendment will apply Taiwanese laws to the formation or termination of parental rights.
All U.S. citizens considering intercountry adoption must comply with the laws and regulations governing adoption and immigration in the child’s country of origin and in the United States. U.S. federal law does not prohibit LGBTQI+ U.S. citizens or same-sex couples from becoming adoptive parents. However, prospective adoptive parents may also wish to review the section on U.S. state laws maintained by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
Divorce
A maximum of two divorces between the couple are accepted.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
Applicants must meet the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines — 125% of the poverty line. Parents must include proof of income. They must also have a stable residence, legitimate employment and sufficient financial means to support a child, taking into account income, personal savings, taxes, etc.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is a part of both the homestudy and dossier process. If you have any current medical conditions or a history of any major illness, surgery or disorder, or if you’d like to discuss any other questions regarding your health, please contact the Taiwan program prior to applying.
Mental Health
Applicants must be assessed to be free of mental health issues and demonstrate the capacity to parent an adopted child.
FAQs on Taiwan Relative Adoption
<strong>What overseas entities are involved in this process</strong>?
Each family will need an attorney in Taiwan. Holt will work collaboratively with the attorney and the prospective adoptive family.
<strong>If I already know of a child whom I want to adopt, can Holt help with the process</strong>?
For this process, Holt will only accept cases in which a prospective adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative and your case meets the other eligibility requirements (listed above), then Holt can assist with your case.
<strong>What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted</strong>?
The relative adoption process in Taiwan is rather lengthy. Because of this, cases can be risky if the child is 13-15 years old when the process begins, as a child may age out of eligibility to be adopted. Please consult with Holt staff for more information regarding the risks of pursuing the adoption of an older child. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children who are already 15 years old or older.
<strong>I want to adopt the child because the birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify</strong>?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons, and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to obtain approval from Taiwan and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child.
<strong>Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt</strong>?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, a Taiwan attorney, a Taiwan judge and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT). More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, the AIT is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
<strong>How long does it take to adopt a child from Taiwan</strong>?
Time frames for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average time frames:
- 6-9 months for adoptive family homestudy and dossier completion
- 6-12+ months for child background assessment completion by attorney to prepare documents for court
- 6-9 months between match and travel, depending on USCIC visa processing time frames and court hearing
- 2-3+ years TOTAL time frame
What is a homestudy?
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report, evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, adoptive parent trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier; however, the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.)
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal history checks
- Child abuse registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (unless that particular country does not have a child abuse registry)
- Meeting agency eligibility requirements
- Meeting government requirements, based on child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical and mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture • Resources available to meet the needs of the child
What is a dossier?
Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents and some that will be gathered from other sources. Taiwan requires certain dossier forms to be completed and certain formats to be followed to verify information in a uniform way. After your homestudy report is completed, you will finish gathering the dossier documents and any other documents requested by the court in Taiwan.
Am I required to travel to <strong>Taiwan</strong>?
At least one adoptive parent is required to travel to Taiwan to receive placement of the child. If only one parent in a married couple travels, the non-traveling spouse must authorize a Power of Attorney prior to travel. The judge may also request that the adoptive parent(s) travel for the court hearing.
What can I expect for travel?
You will likely be required to be in Taiwan for approximately one week, but the length of your adoption trip can vary. Some families choose to arrive earlier or stay longer, which is not a problem.
When is the adoption final?
The adoption is finalized in court in Taiwan. Children in these cases will travel to the U.S. on an IR-3 visa.
<strong>What are the fees for Taiwan relative adoption</strong>?
We are open and transparent about our fees and want you to be aware of all potential costs involved in an adoption, including third-party costs and travel.
Holt is a Christian, private, nonprofit, licensed and accredited child welfare and family service organization. Our adoption work is entirely financed through adoption fees and donations. It is not government subsidized. We believe that children are the highest priority, and we want as many children as possible to have families. To that end, we strive to keep our fees within a reasonable range. All fees are subject to change and are charged at the rate that is current at time of billing. Holt may increase fees if adoption expenses in the foreign country increase substantially after time of application. Families will be notified in writing of any fee increase. Holt International accepts the following for adoption fees: check, cashier’s check or money order. If you would like to pay by credit card, there will be a 3% convenience fee added to your total. Fees due upon invoice.
Thailand Relative Adoption
Holt has helped children in Thailand join their relatives in the U.S. since 2017. The process takes on average 2.5-3 years and adoptive parent eligibility is very flexible. When the relationship between the adoptive parent and child is close — such as a direct aunt/uncle or grandparent — the process can be finalized sooner. View the details below to learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from Thailand
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly, depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the Thailand program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss any questions you have.
Age of Adoptive Parents
Parents must be at least 25 years old and at least 15 years older than the child.
Length of Marriage
If married, the couple must have been married for at least 2 years. Thai law does not recognize same-sex marriage.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Income
Must meet USCIS guidelines – 125% of the poverty line. Must include proof of income with the request (dossier) to CAC to adopt.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is a part of the both the homestudy and dossier process. If you have any current medical conditions or history of any major illness, surgery, disorder or would like to discuss any other questions regarding health, please contact the program prior to applying. CAC is more flexible with relative adoptions than non-relative adoptions, however we may need to inquire with CAC in advance.
Mental Health
A comprehensive psychological evaluation, written by a psychologist or psychiatrist, is required as part of the dossier.
FAQs on Thailand Relative Adoption
What overseas agencies are involved in the relative adoption process from Thailand?
Holt Sahathai Foundation (HSF) is our partner agency in Thailand, and they are approved by the Child Adoption Center (CAC). CAC is the central authority in Thailand, and is responsible for overseeing all international adoption from Thailand.
If I already know of a child that I want to adopt, can you help with the process?
For this process, CAC will only accept cases in which a prospective adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative and your case meets the other eligibility requirements mentioned below, then Holt can assist with your case.
What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted?
The relative adoption process in Thailand is rather lengthy. If the child is 12-13 years old when the process begins, it may not be complete by the time the child ages out of eligibility to be adopted. Please consult the Thailand program for more information regarding the risks of pursuing adoption for an older child. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children who are already 14 years old or older.
I want to adopt the child because their birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). Furthermore, it’s extremely difficult to obtain approval from Thailand and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child.
Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, HSF, CAC and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, the U.S. Embassy is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
How long does it take to adopt a child from Thailand?
Timeframes for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average timeframes:
- 6-9 months for adoptive family homestudy and dossier completion
- 12-18+ months for child background assessment completion by CAC social worker and submission of child study report and child dossier to child adoption board for review and approval of the match
- 6-9 months between match and travel, depending on USCIS visa processing timeframes
- 2.5-3+ years TOTAL timeframe*
* When the relationship between the adoptive parent and child is close — such as a direct aunt/uncle or grandparent — the process can be finalized sooner
What is a homestudy?
A homestudy is a very comprehensive written report evaluating the family’s ability/eligibility to adopt a child. You will work with a social worker from a Holt branch or cooperating agency to complete this process, which often consists of home visits, adoptive parent trainings, phone interviews, completion of paperwork, and submission of documentation proving certain information. (Some of these documents are similar to documents required for the dossier, however the homestudy and dossier are completely separate sets of original documents.)
Initial screening (prior to homestudy) includes:
- Criminal history checks
- Child abuse registry clearances in every state and country that you have lived in, from age 18+ (unless that particular country does not have a child abuse registry)
- Meet agency eligibility requirements
- Meet government requirements, based on child’s country of origin and U.S. regulations
Some factors considered in the evaluation of family functioning include:
- Marital stability
- Health (physical & mental)
- Motivation for adopting
- Employment and financial security
- Family history and extended family support of adoption
- Understanding and respect for child’s birth family and culture
- Resources available to meet the needs of the child
What is a dossier?
Most countries require a dossier as a way to evaluate a family’s ability to adopt a child. A dossier consists of several documents, some of which are prepared by the adoptive parents, and some that will be gathered from other sources. Thailand requires certain dossier forms to be completed and certain formats to be followed to verify information in a uniform way. After your homestudy report is completed, you will finish gathering the dossier documents and have the whole packet state-certified and U.S./Thai Embassy-authenticated before sending all the originals to Holt.
Am I required to travel to Thailand?
Thai law requires that both adoptive parents travel to Thailand to take placement of the child.
What can I expect for travel?
Your adoption schedule length will depend on if you are finalizing the adoption or not (see next question). If you are not finalizing, the trip will take approximately two weeks. If you are finalizing, the trip will be approximately one month in length. Some families choose to arrive earlier or stay longer, which is not a problem.
When is the adoption final?
The answer depends on how close of a relation there is between the adoptive parent and child. If the relation is that of a great aunt/uncle, a cousin or a further relation, you will only be able to finalize the adoption in local U.S. courts after completing the required post-placement period of six months, (also called a “trial custody period”). Upon finalization, your child will gain U.S. citizenship. Children in these cases will travel to the U.S. on an IH-4 visa.
If the relationship is closer, such as a direct aunt/uncle or grandparent, you can finalize the adoption while you are in Thailand taking placement of the child. We highly recommend finalizing in Thailand because the child will become a U.S. citizen as soon as they enter the U.S. This will involve registering the adoption with the CAC. Children in these cases will travel to the U.S. on an IH-3 visa.
Philippines Relative Adoption
For over 20 years, Holt has helped unite children in the Philippines with their relatives in the U.S. As the relative adoption process in the Philippines takes 2-3 years on average — and children ages 14+ aren’t eligible — the program is best for families hoping to adopt children younger than 12 (and no older than 13) at the time of application. Learn about the process, eligibility guidelines and more below!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from the Philippines
Eligibility criteria are typically set by the foreign country, and criteria can vary greatly depending on the needs of their children, laws/rules/policies, culture, etc. Here are some important regulations specific to the Philippines program to review and consider prior to application. If you are unsure if you are eligible for this program, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to discuss your eligibility with Holt’s Philippines program staff.
Age of Adoptive Parents
Parents must be at least 27 years old and at least 16 years older than the child. A maximum of 45 years age gap between the primary caregiver and adoptive child should be maintained except in cases where the circumstances will be favorable to the child. If there is more than a 45-year gap, we would need to inquire with NACC on a case-by-case basis. A formal limit has not been set by NACC for the prospective adoptive father.
Length of Marriage
At least three years, or a minimum of one year married plus two or more years of living together in a committed relationship, prior to the marriage.
Divorce
A maximum of two divorces are accepted.
Children in the Family
No more than three currently living in the home, unless pre-approved by NACC on a case-by-case basis.
Religion
The Philippines program is only open to Catholic and Christian families. Families must provide a reference letter from a pastor or priest documenting five years of church attendance.
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a U.S. citizen.
Education
NACC requires prospective adoptive parents to have at least a high school diploma.
Income
NACC requires a minimum annual income of $40,000.
Physical Health
A full medical exam is required. Although the BMI (Body Mass Index) limit is 35, NACC has additional requirements for families with a BMI of 29 and above.
NACC will not accept adoptive parents with the following medical conditions:
- Complicated Diabetes/Metabolic Syndrome
- Obesity (BMI should be 35 and below)
- Cancer
- Any major transplant (kidney, heart, lung, liver)
- Pacemaker/stroke/myocardial infarction
- Multiple sclerosis or other degenerative muscular disorder
- Autoimmune disorders
- Risk factors that will impede care for the child (e.g. blind, deaf, wheelchair-bound)
- Hepatitis C
If you have any current medical conditions or history of any major illness, surgery, disorder or would like to discuss any other questions regarding health, please contact the program prior to applying. NACC may be more flexible with relative adoptions, however we cannot know this unless we inquire with NACC in advance.
Mental Health
If either parent is currently taking any mental health medication (i.e. anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication), they will most likely not be eligible. If one applicant has a history of medication use that was very mild and brief and over 5 years ago, they may be approved on a case-by-case basis. Please call the Philippines program prior to applying.
A comprehensive psychological evaluation, written by a psychologist or psychiatrist, is required. NACC requires the following two tests as a part of the evaluation:
- Minnesota Multi-Phasic Personality Inventory-2-Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF)
- NEO PI-R or 16PF Questionnaire
Single Applicants
Parent must be at least 27 years old and at least 16 years older than the child, with a maximum age gap of 45 years between the applicant and adoptive child except in cases where circumstances will be favorable to the child. If more than a 45-year gap, families may be approved on a case-by-case basis.
Within Four Degrees of Consanguinity
NACC will sometimes accept a relative adoption case where the adoptive applicant is within five degrees of consanguinity if there is proof of a strong relationship between the applicant and child. This will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis only.
FAQs on Philippines Relative Adoption
What overseas agencies are involved in this process?
Kaisahang Buhay Foundation (KBF) is our partner agency in the Philippines, and they are approved by the National Authority for Child Care (NACC). NACC is the central authority of the Philippines, and responsible for overseeing all international adoption from the Philippines, including relative adoptions.
If I already have a child that I want to adopt, can you help with the process?
NACC will not accept cases in which neither adoptive parent is biologically related to the child. If the child is a relative (within 4 degrees of consanguinity) and your case meets the other eligibility requirements for relative adoption from the Philippines (see above), then Holt can assist with your case.
What is the maximum age of a relative child to be adopted?
The relative adoption process in the Philippines is rather lengthy. Because of this, cases can be risky if the child is 12-13 years old when the adoption clearance process begins. Please consult with the Philippines program staff for more information before pursuing adoption for a child ages 12-13. Unfortunately, we cannot accept relative adoption cases for children that are 14 years old or older.
I want to adopt the child because their birth parents are living in poverty. Does my case qualify?
U.S. immigration regulations for relative adoption cases are restrictive. Poverty alone is not considered a valid reason for adoption. There must be other substantiated reasons and the birth parents must be incapable of providing proper care. If a biological parent is caring for the child, then it’s difficult to prove why they can no longer parent the child, even if the biological parent and/or child are being financially supported by the prospective adoptive parents (or other family members). It’s also extremely difficult to obtain approval from the Philippines and U.S. authorities for cases in which both biological parents are still living. There must be extraordinary circumstances that prevent one or both biological parents from caring for their child.
Can Holt guarantee that a visa will be issued for the relative child I want to adopt?
No. It is important to understand that although Holt, KBF, DSWD, NACC and the USCIS/NBC office (in the U.S.) all evaluate the situation and make recommendations based on assessment and prior experiences, the ultimate decision will be up to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines. More than likely, a visa will be approved for the child once the case has made it through the various stages of evaluation mentioned above. However, the U.S. Embassy is the ultimate authority regarding visa issuance, and only they can make the final decision.
How long does it take to adopt a relative child from the Philippines?
Timeframes for relative adoptions can vary greatly. However, here are some average timeframes:
- 1-2 months for KBF’s informal assessment and referral to NACC
- 1-2+ years for DSWD to submit child study report and child dossier to NACC for review (times vary greatly)
- 3-6+ months for homestudy and dossier completion
- 3-6 months for NACC to approve the dossier and match
- 5-7 months between match and travel, depending on USCIS visa processing timeframes
- 3-4+ years TOTAL timeframe
Am I required to travel to the Philippines to adopt a relative?
At least one parent must travel, although both parents are encouraged to travel. If only one parent is traveling, you can have a family member or close friend travel with you to provide support. Your trip will require seven days, which includes five business days in the Philippines and travel time to fly there and back. Some families choose to stay longer.
When is the adoption final?
You will finalize the adoption in local U.S. courts after completing the required post-placement period of six months — also called a “trial custody period” — and upon receipt of the Affidavit of Consent to Adoption issued by NACC. It usually takes 2-4 months after the final report is sent to receive this. Upon finalization, your child will gain U.S. citizenship.
What are the fees for Philippines relative adoption?
We are open and transparent about our fees and want you to be aware of all potential costs involved in an adoption, including third-party costs and travel.
Holt is a Christian, private, nonprofit, licensed and accredited child welfare and family service organization. Our adoption work is entirely financed through adoption fees and donations. It is not government subsidized. We believe that children are the highest priority, and we want as many children as possible to have families. To that end, we strive to keep our fees within a reasonable range. All fees are subject to change and are charged at the rate that is current at time of billing. Holt may increase fees if adoption expenses in the foreign country increase substantially after time of application. Families will be notified in writing of any fee increase. Holt International accepts the following for adoption fees: check, cashier’s check or money order. If you would like to pay by credit card, there will be a 3% convenience fee added to your total. Fees due upon invoice.
Vietnam Relative Adoption
Holt’s Vietnam adoption program is currently not accepting standard process applications. However, Holt will work with families to adopt relative children from Vietnam. Our international relative adoption program began in 2023. The adoption process typically takes about 2-3+ years, and adoptive parent eligibility is very flexible. Contact us for more information on adopting a relative child from Vietnam!
Eligibility Requirements for Relative Adoption from Vietnam
Parental eligibility for adopting a relative child from Vietnam is the same as the standard Vietnam program, but with greater flexibility to the requirements listed below. If you don’t meet these requirements, please contact us at 1-888-355-4658 or [email protected] to learn if you might still be eligible.
Parent’s Age
Applicants should be married couples or singles who are 25 years of age or older. Parents 55 years or older will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must be at least 20 years older than the adopted child.
Length of Marriage
Couples must be married for at least one year before applying.
Divorce
Each applicant may have up to two divorces. Applicants with more than two divorces are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Children in Family
There can be four children already present in the home. Families with more than four children will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Single Applicant
Vietnam is open to single applicants.
Travel
Both parents are required to travel and should expect to spend about 2-3 weeks in Vietnam.
How Long It Takes
The process time frame may vary from province to province.
Additional Information
- Minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required for both parents.
- Parents with major medical or arrest histories, please contact us before applying.
- Prospective families must speak with Holt’s Vietnam adoption program staff prior to submitting an application.
Note
- Vietnam is a Hague Convention country.
Read One Holt Family’s Relative Adoption Story
Adoption
Relative Adoption from Thailand
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