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International adoption: The common obstacles parents face

On Behalf of | Jun 28, 2021 | Adoption

International adoption is sometimes the right choice for a family. However, there are many obstacles that may get in the way and impact the process.

Unlike a domestic adoption, the child or children who will be adopted are not in the same country. As a result, they will need to obtain visas, passports, get vaccines and go through other processes to be able to come to the United States.

There may be other issues that parents need to address as well.

3 common obstacles with international adoption

International adoptions have several major obstacles, but three of the most immediate include questions about the child’s age or identifying information, language issues and special health issues.

To start with, it may be difficult to know the exact birthdate of the child. This may lead to the agency making their best guess at the child’s age, and that is something to keep in mind. Usually, information provided to the team at the adoption agency will be used to set a new birthdate for the child.

Another issue could be with language. International adoptions aren’t always between two English-speaking countries. Parents who speak English and no additional languages may find it more difficult to adopt a child who speaks Spanish, Chinese or another language that they don’t. English is also difficult to learn, so it may take time before good communication will be possible.

Finally, remember that many children put up for adoption have special health needs. From issues like cleft palates to mental health concerns, there may be medical issues that need to be addressed once the children reach America (or, in some cases, beforehand).

Obstacles can make adoption frustrating for new parents, but help is available

International adoption obstacles can make adopting frustrating for new parents. Fortunately, it is possible to get past these obstacles and bring your child home. Get to know your legal rights and responsibilities, so that you can put the right plan in place to bring your child home safely while giving them all the support they need to learn the language and have the right start in America.

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