An adoption that is not arranged by an agency is an independent adoption. Independent adoption is legal in most states, but not all states. With the advice of an attorney, a prospective adoptive parent becomes pre-certified for adoption, sets up a phone line in their home, does networking and advertising. The birthmother will contact the prospective adoptive parents. An adoption attorney will speak to the birthparent and help the birthparent find their own lawyer, and assist with the legal aspects of the adoption.
International adoptions can also be independent adoptions.
The adopted child comes from another country. The countries with the most international adoptions are China, Russia, Korea, Romania, Guatemala, India, Vietnam, Colombia, Philippines, and Paraguay. Travel by the adoptive parents may or may not be required. International adoption can be done with an agency or independently. Approval must be obtained from both domestic and foreign governments.