International Adoption Costs

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International Adoption

Whether you have already decided to adopt internationally or are first exploring the possibility, the Web can give you an overview of the international adoption process and U.S. international adoption requirements. Online, you'll be able to research countries that have established international adoption programs, learn about the associated costs and how to select a reputable adoption agency, learn about potential issues facing children who have spent time in orphanages, find support groups in your area, and find current adoption-related news and publications.

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International Adoption Process

To complete an international adoption, United States citizens must fulfill the requirements of the ... read more »

International Adoption Programs and Requirements

You may not have an initial preference as to the country from which to adopt, and that's OK. Some ... read more »

Adoption Home Study

All countries require the completion of an adoption home study before you adopt. The home study is ... read more »

International Adoption Costs

International adoption costs can range from about $10,000 to $30,000. Remember, these are only rough estimates. These costs can include home study fees, country adoption fees, dossier fees, travel, escort fees, translation fees, passport fees, etc. Fees are paid for before, during, and on completion of an adoption.

Dulcinea's Insight

Check the Web sites of different adoption agencies to compare fees. But still always clarify all adoption agency fees in writing, and make sure you understand which services are covered in your agency's fees and which aren't.

Most agencies require fees to be paid before and during adoption. Be wary of agencies that request all of the fees upfront.

Dulcinea's Picks

Adoptive Families Magazine has downloadable adoption budgeting Excel worksheets to track your expenses throughout the adoption process. For even more insight, read "How We Afforded Our Adoption," a compilation of the best ideas for raising the necessary funds, gathered from families who have adopted.

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The National Endowment for Financial Education has information on how to make international adoption more affordable. This site includes details on family leave, employee benefits, and tax credits.

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Spence-Chapin has a brochure you can download with suggestions about how to afford adoption. Although this site focuses on how to budget adoption specifically while using the Spence-Chapin agency, most of the information is helpful for everyone. Spence-Chapin is a private nonprofit adoption agency based in New York City.

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National Adoption Foundation (NAF) says its mission is to provide potential adopting families with information and resources on financial assistance. Click the "How We Can Help" link to see the financial help programs they offer or use the "Ask a Pro" feature to voice your question directly to a "qualified professional expert."

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Joint Council on International Children's Services (JCICS) has a downloadable cost comparison worksheet in Excel format to help you determine international adoption costs while examining different approaches.

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