What is the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption?
On April 1, 2008 the United States ratified the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption. Effective on that date, all adoptions of children not citizens of the United States are governed by the Hague Convention. A child is typically considered “habitually resident” in his or her country of citizenship. If the Hague Convention is in force between the United States and the child’s country of citizenship, the requirements of the Hague must be followed if the child is to be legally adopted and eligible for U.S. citizenship. This can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Anyone considering the adoption of a child born in another country should consult with an experienced adoption attorney.