International Adoptions in Texas
Obtain Legal Counsel for Intercountry Adoption
The international adoption process is complex and requires the counsel
of an experienced immigration attorney. Along with the already complex
adoption process, foreign children must obtain an
immigrant visa before they can be united with their new parents here in the United States.
The best way to ensure that you take all the necessary steps for your
adopted child's
immigration is by consulting a Houston immigration attorney. Hira Law PLLC understands
the intercountry immigration process and can help you obtain an immigrant
visa for your child.
Steps in the International Adoption Process
As a U.S. citizen looking to adopt from another country, you will need
to undergo one of three different processes. The Hague Convention on Protection
of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption —
or the "Hague Process" —protects the best interests of
you and your future adopted child. You will go through a Hague Accredited
Adoption Service Provider (ASP), undergo a home study, and apply to the
U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service (USCIS) to ensure that your
family is suitable for intercountry adoption. Once your application is
approved, the child you wish to adopt must be approved for immigration
by the USCIS. The child may then be adopted, but an immigrant visa must
be obtained for them in order for them to enter the country.
The second process is the orphan process. If the child you wish to adopt
does not meet the requirements for the Hague Process and is an orphan
according to the USCIS definition, he or she may be adopted through the
orphan process. The child's parents must both be dead or have abandoned
the child, and the child must be under 16. An orphan child older than
16 but less than 18 years old can be adopted through this process if their
younger sibling under 16 has already been adopted by the prospective parents.
The third process is the immediate relative process. If you obtain custody
of a child under 16 or complete the adoption process before they turn
16, the child can immigrate as your son or daughter. You can also adopt
a child who is over 16, but not yet 18, if you have already adopted their
sibling who is under 16 years old. Speak with an immigration attorney
right away to learn which of these three options applies to your individual
situation.
Hire an International Adoption Attorney in Houston
Hira Law PLLC has handled immigration cases of all kinds and remains up
to date on any changes to the law. We understand the laws and regulations
for international adoption and work with the USCIS on a regular basis.
Retain a lawyer from our firm today for compassionate and comprehensive
counsel throughout the adoption process. We can minimize mistakes and
delays in order to expedite your child's immigration.
Contact us today to learn more!