Adoption is a legal procedure whereby a child officially becomes the descendant of the adoptive parents, and the legal bond with the biological parents is terminated.
Meaning of adoption
Adoption makes a child legally the child of the adoptive parents. This means:
- The child has the same rights as a biological child
- The legal relationship with the original parents is severed
- The child can take the family name of the adoptive parents
- The child becomes the heir of the adoptive parents
Types of adoption
| Category | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| International adoption | Child originating from abroad |
| National adoption | Child from the Netherlands is adopted |
| Stepparent adoption | Partner adopts the child of the other partner |
| Adoption of adults | An adult is adopted |
Conditions for adoption
Dutch legislation imposes strict requirements on adoption:
- Adoptive parents must be at least 18 years older than the child
- The child is generally a minor (with exceptions)
- The child must have lived with the adoptive parents for at least 1 year
- Adoption must be clearly in the best interest of the child
- No future bond with the biological parents may be expected
Steps in the adoption procedure
- Information session and preparation course (for international adoption via Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen)
- Submission of a petition to the court
- Investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board
- The judge hears all involved parties (including children from 12 years old)
- Ruling by the judge on the adoption
Consent requirements
For adoption, consent must be given by:
- The biological parents (if they have parental authority)
- The child itself, from 12 years old
- The partner of the adopter, if relevant
Can single persons adopt a child?
Yes, in the Netherlands, adoption by single persons is permitted. For international adoption, however, countries may impose additional conditions. In Utrecht, you can seek advice on this at the Juridisch Loket.Is it possible to reverse an adoption?
In very rare cases, an adoption can be revoked. This requires a request from the child or the adoptive parents and is only granted by the court in exceptional circumstances.Does a child maintain contact with the biological parents after adoption?
This varies per case. In an open adoption, contact remains possible, whereas in a closed adoption, this is not the case. In Utrecht, there is an increasing focus on forms of open adoption.Frequently asked questions about adoption in Utrecht
What is the average duration of an adoption procedure?
An adoption process usually takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on the type. International adoptions can take longer due to additional formalities and international coordination. In Utrecht, you can start the procedure via the District Court of Midden-Nederland.
What does adoption cost in the Netherlands?
The costs vary per situation. Domestic adoption costs approximately €1,500 to €5,000 for legal and investigation procedures. International adoption can amount to €10,000–€30,000 due to travel and translation costs. Stepparent adoption ranges between €1,000 and €3,000. For current information, you can contact the Child Care and Protection Board.
Can I adopt if I already have my own children?
Yes, the law does not limit the number of children in a family. However, it is investigated whether adoption is in the interest of all children in the family. The Child Care and Protection Board assesses the family's capacity in Utrecht.
What if the biological parents do not give consent?
If the biological parents with parental authority refuse, the court can replace their consent. This only happens in cases of serious neglect or if the child has lived with the adoptive parents for a long time. The child's best interest always takes precedence.
Does the child automatically get the surname of the adoptive parents?
No, this is a choice. When submitting the petition, you can indicate whether the child receives the surname of the adoptive parents or retains the original name.
Contact information in Utrecht:
- District Court of Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55