Adoption From Guatemala

Currently, our Guatemala Adoption program is on hold, and we are not accepting new applications. In December 2007, the Guatemala government passed new adoption legislation in order to become Hague compliant. We have yet to see how the law will impact our current program. At the least, before working here again, we must wait for the Hague to go into effect in the U.S. in April 2008. Please check back periodically for more updates.

	CHILDREN AVAILABLE: Healthy infants, generally newborn to three months old at time of referral, of Latino ethnicity (Spanish and Mayan mix). More boys than girls. Siblings and older children sometimes. All children will be in private foster care, most from birth. Most birthmothers will receive some prenatal care. Some birthmother history will be available. Medical report and photos provided. Children tested for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis. All children will see a pediatrician regularly until they leave Guatemala and families will receive medical and photo updates.
	TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: The stay in Guatemala will be about three days. Only one parent may travel. Accommodation in hotel. Families assisted by bilingual coordinator in country. Cultural sightseeing also offered. Children already in the home may travel. Adoption is final prior to travel. Adoptive parents wishing to meet their child prior to finalization should plan on a short trip a few months after accepting the referral. Escort is possible.
	LENGTH OF PROCESS: Preparation of dossier takes about three months. Child referrals are generally made within three to six months of submission of dossier, may be longer for girls. Adoption completed about six to eight months after acceptance of child acceptance. Progress reports provided on each case during processing in Guatemala.
	ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Very flexible, although at least one adoptive parent should be no older than 45 years and couples should have been married for two years. Single women are eligible.