I have just completed a series called International Adoption: How to Choose a Country. If you are looking to adopt domestically in the United States, you might find yourself in a similar position of choosing a state instead of a country from which to adopt. Adoption laws differ from state to state, and some couples consider these differences when making this decision.

There are many factors to consider,... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

10. Decide which country is the best fit for your family.

If you have followed the process laid out in International Adoption: How to Choose a Country, then you have probably already narrowed down your selection of countries.... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

9. Examine ethical considerations.

Ethics should always be a consideration when you adopt, whether you are pursuing a domestic or international adoption. The child you adopt should be waiting in an orphanage or foster home and need a home. Alternatively, the birthmother should have chosen adoption for the... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

8. Evaluate the possible health and emotional risks for each country.

As I discussed in my last post, International Adoption: Life Before Adoption, whether a child lives in a foster home or an orphanage can affect the child’s emotional... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

7. Consider the child’s life before adoption.

If you proceed with an international adoption, the child you adopt will most likely be living in either a foster care situation or an orphanage before the adoption. Where your child lives before the adoption can affect both your child’s physical and emotional health.

Attachment... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

6. Evaluate your feelings toward each country’s heritage.

For whatever reason, some people feel drawn toward one country and not another when considering an international adoption. Listen to that voice inside of yourself that pulls you in a particular direction.

Once we had decided on International adoption,... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

5. Research the history and political climate of each country.

Before you choose a country for your international adoption, be sure to learn all you can about the country’s history, culture, and political climate. Once you adopt a child from that country, your family will be connected to that country. Your child’s roots are from that country,... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

4. Compare and contrast the international adoption processes.

The adoption process varies widely from country to country, so be sure to examine the processes for each country that you are considering. Here are some factors you might want to consider:

How Long Does It Take?

One big factor to compare... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

3. Compare and contrast cost and time commitments.

All international adoptions are expensive. You are working with agencies or facilitators in two countries, both of whom expect to be paid. You will also need to travel to bring your child home or pay the travel expenses for your child and his escort. No matter how you slice... more

From International Adoption: How to Choose a Country:

2. Consider travel requirements.

Travel requirements can be a big issue in selecting a country for your international adoption. It is no small task to take several weeks off work, fly halfway around the world, and spend several weeks in another country. Travel requirements are definitely an issue... more