This is how we understand the process to go (based on South Korea information).
- Attend intercountry adoption information meeting and complete the pre-application.
- Receive notification of approval of the pre-application.
WHERE WE ARE IN PROCESS
- Apply for passports ~$200
- Complete formal application and return with $550 non-refundable fee
- Receive approval of formal application and assignment of a social worker
- Obtain the I600A or I800A orphan packet from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services)
- Begin Immigration Pre-filing process by completing the I600A or I800A form and assignment of fingerprinting appointment by USCIS.
- Social worker begins the Home Study ~$1,800
- Complete Home Study and training requirements, and pay balance of agency fee. ~$5,150
- Agency sends Home Study to country
- Await your referral from country
- Country identifies a child for us and we receive a referral
- Accept referral and complete acceptance documents ~$14,175-16,705
- Begin the court process (in local county)
- Birth country completes the necessary legal procedures before child may travel
- Receive visa approval through USCIS
- Travel to country to receive child!!!! ~$4-6,000
- Complete court and immigration process (local court)
- Social worker begins required post-adoption reports ~$900-975
- Apply for a birth certificate after receiving final order of adoption
Misc. Expenses ~$1,500-2,400
Total Estimated Cost: $28,275 to $33,780
