AC
AdoptionCenter Editorial Team
·Updated June 29, 2026·Last reviewed June 29, 2026·AdoptionCenter
Learn when the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children applies, how approval works, why families must wait, and common mistakes.
The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children, or ICPC, is the legal framework used for many placements across state lines for adoption, foster care, and certain other purposes.
In many interstate adoptions, the child must not leave the placement state until both states approve the placement.
What ICPC addresses
Safety and suitability
Legal and financial responsibility
Supervision
Services
Information sharing
Compliance across states
When it commonly applies
Private domestic infant adoption across state lines
Foster-care placement across state lines
Interstate adoptive placement
Certain relative placements
Some placements with parents
Residential treatment placement
Applicability can be complex. Never assume an exception.
Typical process
The sending party prepares the packet.
The sending state reviews it.
The receiving state reviews the home and placement.
Both states approve.
The child may travel.
Supervision continues until finalization or closure.
Common mistakes
Leaving before approval
Booking nonrefundable travel
Using an expired home study
Submitting incomplete documents
Assuming hospital discharge equals ICPC approval
Assuming relative status creates an exception
Legal-risk placement
ICPC approval does not guarantee adoption. Required consent or termination issues may still be unresolved.
Consult qualified counsel and the relevant compact offices.
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