Domestic vs. International

If you are wondering which path to choose, here are a few of the high-level differences between domestic and international adoption.

Domestic Adoption

• Possibility of adoption infant/newborn is high


• It may be possible to obtain medical history of the child and birth family


• In some cases a relationship with the birthmother/family is a possibility


• In most cases the birthmother/family selects the adoptive family


• Minimal travel and times away from home required


• The ability to choose child's ethnic background


• Revocation period varies from state to state


• Expenses can vary greatly


• Healthy older children are available through foster care system


• Several methods of adoption are available (agency, private, foster care)

International Adoption

• Available children usually at least 12 months or older


• International travel required in most cases


• Length of stay in each country varies from one to six weeks


• No revocation period


• Very little, if any, medical history available on children and/or birth family


• Wait time varies based on country's policies/procedures


• Can be expensive but within a set range for each country


• Increased possibility of emotional/attachment issues


• Developmental delays common in institutionalized children


• Possibility of delays/closures due to country's government and procedures


• Language and/or cultural barriers may exist

(c) 2008