Intercountry adoption involves adopting a child from abroad. This complex process has strict rules to safeguard the child's welfare and prevent abuses such as child trafficking.
Regulation via the Hague Adoption Convention
The Netherlands is a party to the Hague Adoption Convention, which regulates intercountry adoptions. This convention ensures that adoptions take place in the best interests of the child and without financial exploitation.
Steps for Intercountry Adoption
| Step | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Registration with Stichting Adoptievoorzieningen | - |
| 2 | Information and preparation phase | 6-12 months |
| 3 | Family assessment 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 suitable match with a child | 1-5 years |
| 7 | First acquaintance and picking up the child | Several weeks |
| 8 | Legal completion in the Netherlands | 6-12 months |
Requirements for Adoptive Parents
- Minimum age difference with child: 18 years
- Maximum age at start of procedure: 46 years (with exceptions)
- Positive outcome of family investigation
- Obtaining principle consent via the Minister
- Financial and housing stability
Cost Overview
Adopting a child from abroad involves significant costs:
- Information course: approximately €1,500
- Family report: circa €1,100
- Mediation costs: between €10,000 and €30,000 (depending on country of origin)
- Travel expenses: variable
- Legal handling in the Netherlands: around €1,000
Cooperation with Countries of Origin
The Netherlands maintains contacts with a select number of countries for adoption. Each country applies its own criteria, for example regarding single persons, same-sex couples, or age limits.
Process after Arrival in the Netherlands
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, the process proceeds as follows:
- Child's residence on the basis of principle consent
- Follow-up investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board
- Submission of adoption request to the court
- Judgment of adoption in accordance with Dutch law
- Granting of Dutch nationality to the child
How long does an adoption procedure take?
The process usually takes 3 to 6 years. The preparation phase takes 1-2 years, followed by a waiting period that varies per country and can sometimes last years.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 are allowed to adopt, but many countries of origin do not permit this, which limits the options.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average duration of an intercountry adoption?
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 an adoption from abroad 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 costs. Sometimes there are tax deductions via the Tax Authorities or local subsidies available.
Are single persons allowed to adopt a child from abroad?
Yes, single persons can adopt in the Netherlands, but many countries of origin do not allow this. Inquire with a mediation organization about the options.
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, such as with nationality or rights. The Netherlands recognizes the adoption after completion here, but always consult an expert or mediation agency.
How does the procedure proceed after arrival in the Netherlands?
After arrival, the child resides on the basis of principle consent, followed by an investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board, and the adoption is finalized via the District Court of The Hague (district). For legal advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.