International Adoption Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about adopting in a particular country? Click below for our country-specific Frequently Asked Questions pages:
What countries do you work with?
We have programs in China, Ethiopia and Russia. We also do home studies for Michigan families who wish to adopt from other countries.
Do you work with families nationwide?
Yes. If you live outside of Michigan, you will have to get a home study from a licensed agency in your state. We can then work with you to complete your adoption placement.
How can I afford adoption?
The fees required in an adoption may seem overwhelming at first, but broken down, and with the help of the over $12,000 U.S. federal tax credit, adoption is more affordable than you might think.
Here are the ways most prospective parents raise the necessary funds: Federal and state tax credits, home equity loans, personal savings, employer benefits, family loans or gifts, churches, refinancing a mortgage, credit card payment, borrowing from 401(k), pension, or insurance policy, or grants and loans.
What are the age requirements?
- China: Both parents must be between thirty to forty-nine years old to qualify for a child under one year of age. The limit is fifty-four years old to qualify for a Waiting Child.
- Ethiopia: No strict age requirements for married couples; persons older than fifty will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The minimum age for single applicants is twenty-five years old.
- Russia: Adults up to forty-five years old are eligible to adopt a child under twelve months of age; older adults are able to adopt older children.
What are the travel requirements?
- China: One trip is required—fourteen to sixteen days; one or both parents travel.
- Ethiopia: Two trips. An AAI escort is available to bring your child home.
- Russia: Three trips are required; the first is about seven days in length, the second lasts about fourteen days, the third lasts five to seven days.
What are the ages of the children?
- China: Toddler, preschool and school-aged children are the most readily available
- Ethiopia: Children available for adoption range in age from infants to fifteen years old; preschool- and school-aged children are most readily available
- Russia: Preschool- and school-aged children are most readily available
Are the children healthy?
- China: Yes, but children with special needs are more readily available.
- Ethiopia: Yes, the children are extensively tested to rule out disease. Medical records are available for every child.
- Russia: The majority of children come home in good health; we also place children with special needs.
Note: The health of children varies, and unknown health concerns are best detected by asking a pediatrician to review a child’s medical and social history.
Due to the nature of international adoption, the information on this page is subject to change without notice.
