Overview
The India Adoption Program is stable with a long reputation of placing children. Children are available primarily due to poverty. Special consideration is given to individuals of Indian heritage. Non-Resident Indians (NRI) residing in the USA receive priority and may apply for young, non-special needs children. Families of non-Indian descent are eligible to adopt identified children with special needs through the Waiting International Children (WIC) program. The 'special needs' designation includes any child over age 5 years, sibling groups of all ages, and children with minor/moderate special needs.
Children Available for Adoption from India: In India, children who need families range in age from infants to preteens (8 months - 10 years). Sibling groups are also available. There are two separate adoption programs in India. The first applies only to those of Indian heritage. These families may adopt non-special needs children and infants. Singles and couples who are not of Indian descent may apply to the WIC (Waiting International Children) program, and adopt identified children. This is a great program for families who are open to parenting a child above the age of infancy.
Parent Qualifications:
- One applicant must be a U.S. Citizen
- Up to 4 children in the home are allowed.
- PAP(s) must be at least 25 years older than the child they are adopting.
- Individual PAP age should be no more than 55 years.
Married Couples:
- Married couples must be married for at least two years and have a stable marital relationship.
- To adopt a child 0-4 years old, the combined age of the adoptive parents should be no more than 90 years at the time of registration with CARA.
- To adopt a child 4-8 years of age, the combined age of the adoptive parents should not be more than 100 years at the time of registration with CARA.
- To adopt a child 8-18 years of age, the combined age of the adoptive parents should not be more than 110 years at the time of registration with CARA.
Single Persons:
- Singles should not be older than 45 years at the time of registration with CARA to adopt a child 0-4 years old.
- Singles should not be older than 50 years at the time of registration with CARA to adopt a child 4-8 years old.
- Singles should not be older than 55 years at the time of registration with CARA to adopt a child 8-18 years old.
- Un-married or single men may not adopt a girl child.
Timeline: Timeline is flexible depending on the program and a family's flexibility. Typically application through placement: 18-36 months
India Adoption Resources
Agencies Working With India Adoption
International Adoption Agency & Orphan Care
International & Domestic Adoption Agency
International Adoption Agency
