International Adoption and Readoption

Overview

Now that you have found one another, Adoption Law Group is here to help you finalize your readoption here in the U.S.

A U.S. birth certificate is a precious thing. By readopting your foreign-born child in the United States, your child will receive a California birth certificate (called a Delayed Registration of Birth) with your name/s listed as your child's parent/s.

In some cases, a readoption is required before U.S. citizenship can be granted. Here are a few key things to know about adopting your internationally adopted child here in California.

If you were granted legal guardianship of the child for purposes of adoption, you will need to complete an adoption, rather than readoption, of the child.  The requirements for each are different, and Adoption Law Group is knowledgable about both processes.

Is Readoption Necessary? 

If you did not formally adopt your child overseas, check your child's visa status. If your child entered the United States on an IH-4 or IR-4 visa, they may be considered a permanent resident. If so, we recommend you pursue readoption to ensure your child receives a U.S. birth certificate. Note: The child must be readopted before 18 years of age  to obtain U.S. citizenship.

Even if your child is already a U.S. citizen, a readoption is usually necessary to obtain a California birth certificate/delayed registration of birth. 

What Paperwork Will I Need? 

Before filing a readoption petition, you should gather hard copies of your certified documents, including immigration documentation, certified and translated copies of foreign adoption decrees, and the child's original birth certificate (with translation) from the child's country of origin. You will also need a copy of your original international homestudy, as well as at least one post-placement report from a licensed California adoption agency.

If you were given guardianship of your child in the foreign country and did not complete an adoption, Adoption Law Group will work with your agency to obtain and file the correct documents.  In most cases, you will need to be home with your child for at least six months and have had four post-placement supervision reports completed by your agency.

After the adoption is final, you will need to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship for your child. 

ALG will prepare the Adoption Request and supporting documents for filing, communicate with your agency, and schedule your final court hearing. A finalization hearing is a celebratory event usually open to family and friends.