Procedures for Adoption from South Korea

 

The adoption process begins when the completed application and application fee are returned to ABC. The application is reviewed and applicants are notified as outlined here.

Applications, Home Study, and Dossier Submission

(Approximate Time Estimate: 4-6 Months)

1. Complete and submit application to ABC Adoption. We recommend scheduling an informational meeting with ABC staff before submitting application.

2. After being accepted by ABC, complete and submit application to Spence-Chapin.

3. When approved by Spence-Chapin, you will attend an orientation meeting at ABC which will discuss the adoption process in greater depth.

4. Begin collecting required Home Study and Dossier documents.

5. Complete mandatory educational program.

6. Complete Home Study.

7. Apply at USCIS.

8. Complete international dossier.

9. Submit dossier to Spence-Chapin.

Stage Two – Receiving a Referral

(Approximate Time Estimate: 5 months)

1. Continue to attend monthly educational seminars offered at ABC.

2. Prepare the home for having an infant.

3. Receive referral which includes photos, medical history, and pregnancy history of birth mother.

4. Accept or decline referral .

5. Complete required paperwork regarding referral acceptance/denial.

6. Begin working with ABC and Spence-Chapin regarding travel arrangements.

Stage Three - Travel

(Approximate Time Estimate: 3-4 months)

1. Depending on whether you selected the escort option or the travel option, begin travel preparations accordingly (either to South Korea, JFK, or LAX).

2. Begin Embassy paperwork and required documentation.

Stage Four - Post-Placement

1. Obtain an Alien Registration Card for the child.

2. Re-adopt the child in the United States.

3. Obtain Certificate of US Citizenship.

4. Remove the child from the Korean Citizenship roles.

5. ABC is required to perform three post-placement reports within the first 20 weeks after the child enters the United States.

 

The above referenced time estimates are estimates and cannot be guaranteed by ABC Adoption, Spence-Chapin, or the country of origin. The wait times for referrals and travel are established overseas and subject to change at any time.

 

Not sure where to start? ABC is committed to sharing adoption information to interested couples and individuals as they explore their options. Consultations are offered free-of-charge without obligation. Let us know if we can be of assistance.