Process


The following describes the general process for international adoption. The placement and legal processes are unique to each adoption:

  1. Adoptive couple attends Orientation.
  2. Adoptive couple submits a preliminary application. You will have a response within 72 hours.
  3. Adoptive family submits Formal Application with non-refundable fee.
  4. Application is approved by our main office and contract is sent for approval and signature.
  5. Contract is reviewed and approved by the Director and case is assigned to an adoption worker.
  6. An initial homework packet is sent out; the assigned worker will contact family to arrange an initial interview once completed packet is received.
  7. The assigned worker meets with the family for joint and individual interviews and a home visit; the non-refundable assessment fee is due at the first interview.
  8. Family begins working on compiling the dossier and submitting needed paper work to USCIS.
  9. Background screening checks are completed, file is completed and home study is completed.
  10. Home study is approved by Director.
  11. Adoptive couple attends classes which are held on a quarterly basis.
  12. Adoptive couple completes and submits the dossier for their country with non-refundable fee to Grand Rapids.
  13. Waiting period – Varies from country to country.
  14. Adoptive family receives a referral from the country and travels usually between six to eight weeks after the referral is received to complete the legal process in the country.
  15. Adoptive family returns to the United States with their adopted child.
  16. Post-placement visits take place (number of visits varies from country to country but always consists of one on arrival and a minimum of two other visits).
  17. Post Adoption Services provided as needed.

Legal Process
The legal process for adoption is typically completed in the foreign country with the exception of the Philippines where the finalization occurs in the United States.

Feel free to browse through the International pages of Bethany's website. For more information please contact us at 407.877.4006 or fill out our contact form.