International Adoption: 10 Questions to ask potential agencies

1. How long has the agency been working in international adoption? How long have they worked in each country?
2. Which countries does the agency work with and how many placements were made last year from each?
3. Is the agency Hague accredited?
4. Does the agency have any religious or denominational affiliation?
5. Will the agency provide family references?
6. Does the agency have a complete list off all fees, costs, and expenses that will occur in the adoption process? Get an estimate of ALL expenses, not just agency fees.
7. If the country you apply for changes its rules and you become disqualified, can you switch to another country? If you decide not to pursue adoption what fees are non-refundable?
8. How does the agency take precautions to be sure that the children  are “true” orphans and not children taken from their biological parents for monetary gain?
9. What are the agencies requirements for adoptive families (age, religious, health issues, number of children in the home, finances, etc.)?
10. What pre-placement training and post-placement services are provided?

This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute the only questions that should be asked. This does not take the place of legal counsel. Any legal questions should be answered by a qualified attorney.