Compare common requirements for domestic infant, foster care, international, relative, and stepparent adoption.
Adoption requirements vary by state, agency, adoption type, and—in international adoption—the child’s country of origin and U.S. immigration law. Common requirements include background checks, a home study, financial stability, health information, training, and court approval.
Applicants usually need an approved home study, background checks, education, financial review, and post-placement supervision.
Agency policies may be more restrictive than minimum state law.
Families may need foster or adoptive approval, state training, a home inspection, references, and preparation for trauma, grief, reunification, and birth-family relationships.
Requirements may come from the state, USCIS, the Hague process, the sending country, and the provider.
Country rules may address age, marriage duration, health, family size, income, criminal history, religion, and other factors.
Some states modify home-study requirements for relatives, but consent, background checks, notice, interstate approval, and court review may still apply.
Common issues include consent of the legal parent, rights of the other parent, child consent, investigation, and permanent support obligations.
Rules differ by state and program. Renters and single adults may qualify. Families generally must show stable housing and the ability to meet household needs.
A health condition or disability is not automatically disqualifying under every program. Parenting capacity, prognosis, support, and child needs matter.
Some offenses are disqualifying. Others may receive individual review. Full disclosure is essential.
Confirm current requirements with the applicable state, court, agency, USCIS, and foreign authority.
AdoptionCenter.us provides directory information and educational resources. A listing is not an endorsement or guarantee. Confirm current licensing, accreditation, services, fees, and disciplinary history directly with the appropriate authority before selecting a provider.