Questions to Consider When Looking to Adopt a Child from the Dominican Republic

Adoption can be a wonderful way for couples to become parents. A lot of couples are looking into international adoptions. The fees for this kind of adoption can be a lot less expensive than a domestic adoption. Some couples rush into this and never take the time to look at the "fine print" first. Then when the process is under way they realize just how much is required of them and how long and heart wrenching this process can be.

If you are look into adopting a child from the Dominican Republic there are factors you must consider first. So before even starting the process ask yourself the following questions. If you do not meet the requirements, I would urge you to look at an international adoption from another country.

Are you a heterosexual couple who has been married for five years or more?

The reason is the Dominican Republic will not allow any couple who is not heterosexual and has not been married for five years or more to adopt a child. They use to allow couples who were married for short times and single individuals to adopt but new laws no longer allow this.

Are you between the ages of 30 and 60 years?

The Dominican Republic does not allow for anyone under 30 years of age and no one over 60 years of age to adopt a child. Also adoptive parents must be 15 years older than the child they wish to adopt.

Can you spent anywhere from 30 to 60 days in the Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic requires at least one of the adoptive parents to reside with the child in the Dominican Republic for at least 60 days for a child under the age of 12 and 30 days for a child over the age of 12.

Can you spend $5,000 to $8,000 for an adoption?

Attorney fees to adopt a child from the Dominican Republic can range between $5,000 and $8,000. This fee does include court cost and document fees. These fees do not include any of your travel fees or lodging fees.

Prospective adoptive families must hire a Dominican attorney specializing in adoption.

The U.S Embassy's list of attorneys

http://www.usemb.gov.do/Consular/ACS/legal_assistance-e.htm