A Brief Explanation of the International Adoption Process
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What is the Process for International Adoption?

1. Receive information about LFS international adoption program and arrange an informational meeting with the International Adoption Specialist.
   
   
2. Apply to LFS: Send in your application form, any applicable documents and a picture of your family.
   
   
3. Arrange for a homestudy.
   
   
4. Fill out and send in the I-600A form from your local Immigration and Naturalization Office (INS). The I-600A form should be filed immediately. It starts the pre-approval process necessary to obtain a visa for bringing a foreign-born child into the U.S. Be sure to include appropriate payment for fingerprinting of all household members over the age of 18. INS will then contact you about a date and time for getting fingerprinted.
   
   
5. Once your homestudy is complete, it is sent to the Lutheran Adoption Network placing agency or the agency of your choice for review and approval.
   
   
6. Begin gathering and authenticating the documents required by the foreign country from which you hope to adopt. LFS will provide country specific dossier instruction for this step (for an additional cost).
   
   
7. The wait for a child referral begins once you have received INS approval, completed your dossier and returned the agreements and fees to LFS.
   
   
8. Receive referral of your child. When you receive your referral you will usually receive a photo of the child, along with a medical and social report, if available.
   
   
9. LFS coordinates your case, keeping you informed of the progress and notifies you when it is time to travel to the foreign country and finalize your adoption.
   
   
10. Travel to bring your child home! While you are in the child´s birth country, you will complete the remaining INS requirements at the U.S. Embassy.
    
    
11. Once you return home, and the International Adoption Specialist will complete the necessary post-placement visits. Finalization of the adoption in a Nebraska court may be required, and your International Adoption Specialist will advise you on this process.