Intercountry adoption involves adopting a child from abroad. This process is complex and subject to strict rules to safeguard the child's welfare and prevent child trafficking.
Hague Adoption Convention and Legislation
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 motives.
Step-by-Step Plan 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 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 18-year age difference with the child
- Maximum 46 years old at start of procedure (with exceptions)
- Positive outcome of family investigation
- Official principle consent from the Minister
- Stable housing and financial situation
Cost Overview
Adopting a child from abroad involves high costs:
- Information course: approximately €1,500
- Family assessment: approximately €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
Cooperation with Countries of Origin
The Netherlands works with a select number of countries for adoption. Each country sets its own conditions, for example regarding the suitability of single persons, same-sex couples, or age limits.
Procedure after Arrival in the Netherlands
Upon arrival in the Netherlands, the process proceeds as follows:
- Child resides under principle consent
- Follow-up investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board
- Submission of adoption request to the court
- Judicial decision for adoption under Dutch law
- Granting of Dutch nationality to the child
What is the average duration of an adoption process?
The process typically 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 (such as marital status and age) 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 accept this, which significantly limits the options.Contact and Support in Rijswijk
For legal questions or guidance, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. Adoption cases are often handled by the District Court of The Hague, under which Rijswijk falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an intercountry adoption process take?
On average, the process takes 3 to 6 years, including preparation (1-2 years), waiting time (1-5 years), and completion in the Netherlands (6-12 months).
What does intercountry adoption cost and are there financial compensations?
Costs range between €15,000 and €40,000, depending on the country. This includes family investigation (€1,100), mediation (€10,000-€30,000), and travel. Tax deductions via the Tax Authorities or local subsidies may sometimes be available.
Can single persons adopt from abroad?
Yes, but options are limited because not all countries allow it. A family investigation determines if your situation is suitable. Contact a mediation organization for the possibilities.
What if the country of origin does not recognize the adoption?
This can lead to legal complications, such as issues with nationality or rights. The Netherlands recognizes the adoption after completion here, but it is advisable to seek advice in advance from an expert or mediation organization.
How does the procedure proceed after arrival in the Netherlands?
After arrival, the child resides under principle consent, followed by an investigation by the Child Care and Protection Board, submission of an adoption request to the court (often the District Court of The Hague for Rijswijk), and upon approval, the child receives Dutch nationality.