Foreign Adoptions

Adopting from a foreign country was a choice made by more than 21,000 American families in 2003. Adoptions from other countries has grown over 300% over the course of the last decade, and in 2003, the 10 most frequently chosen countries were:

1. China
2. Russia
3. Guatemala
4. S. Korea
5. Kazakhstan
6. Ukraine
7. India
8. Vietnam
9. Colombia
10. Haiti

Source: U.S. Department of State

While the costs for international adoption can often be very high, many feel that the process is more predictable than domestic adoption. There are other factors seen as advantages as well. These include less stringent age restrictions for adopting parents and minimal, if any, risk that an adoption won't move through to completion.

In addition to high costs, some see disadvantages as including the travel requirements, the vast amount of paperwork that is almost always required, and concerns about the physical and emotional health of children living in orphanages.

If you are considering adopting from a foreign country, get started here.