Intercountry adoption involves adopting a child from another country. This process is complex and has strict rules to prevent child trafficking and prioritize the child's welfare.
Hague Adoption Convention
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Adoption Convention. This convention ensures that adoptions take place in the best interests of the child and without financial motives.
Process of Intercountry Adoption
| Step | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Registration with Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen | - |
| 2 | Information and preparation phase | 6-12 months |
| 3 | Investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board | 4-6 months |
| 4 | Application for principle consent | 2-3 months |
| 5 | Registration with a mediation agency | - |
| 6 | Waiting for a match with a child | 1-5 years |
| 7 | First meeting and picking up the child | Several weeks |
| 8 | Legal completion in the Netherlands | 6-12 months |
Requirements for Adoptive Parents
- At least 18 years older than the child
- Maximum 46 years old at the start of the procedure (with exceptions)
- Positive family report
- Principle consent from the government
- Stable housing and financial situation
Cost Overview
Intercountry adoption involves high costs:
- Information course: approximately €1,500
- Family investigation: circa €1,100
- Mediation costs: between €10,000 and €30,000 (depending on country of origin)
- Travel costs: variable
- Legal handling in the Netherlands: approximately €1,000
Cooperating Countries
The Netherlands has agreements with a select number of countries for adoption. Each country applies its own criteria on who qualifies, such as rules for single persons, same-sex couples, and age limits.
Procedure after Arrival in the Netherlands
Upon arrival in the Netherlands:
- Child's residence based on principle consent
- Follow-up investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board
- Submission of adoption request to the court
- Adoption ruling in accordance with Dutch law
- Granting of Dutch nationality to the child
What is the average duration of an adoption process?
The total process usually takes 3 to 6 years. The preparation phase takes 1-2 years, followed by a waiting period that can vary from 1 to 5 years depending on the country.Can we choose a specific country for adoption?
You can express a preference for a country, but the final choice depends on your personal situation (age, relationship status) and the countries with which the Netherlands cooperates.Is adoption possible for same-sex couples?
In the Netherlands, same-sex couples may adopt, but many countries of origin do not allow this, which significantly limits the options.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average duration of the adoption process?
The process takes an average of 3 to 6 years, including 1-2 years of preparation, a waiting period of 1-5 years, and 6-12 months of completion in the Netherlands.
What does intercountry adoption cost and are there financial compensations?
The costs range between €15,000 and €40,000, depending on the country and organization. Consider family investigation (€1,100), mediation (€10,000-€30,000), and travel expenses. Sometimes deductions via the Tax Authorities or local subsidies are possible.
Can single persons adopt a child from abroad?
Yes, single persons may adopt in the Netherlands, but many countries of origin do not allow this. Inquire with a mediation organization about the possibilities.
What if the country of origin does not recognize the adoption?
If the country of origin does not recognize the adoption, legal complications may arise regarding nationality or rights. The Netherlands recognizes the adoption after the local procedure, but consult an expert for advice.
How does the procedure proceed after arrival in the Netherlands?
After arrival, the child resides based on principle consent. The Child Care and Protection Board conducts a follow-up investigation, followed by a request to the court in Utrecht, such as the Central Netherlands District Court (Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1). For legal advice, you can go to the Legal Counter Utrecht (Catharijnesingel 55).