The prospective adoptive parents must be in Bolivia from the time of the first hearing before the Judge of Minors Court until the final judgment is rendered. This is generally a 30 day procedure. Foreign adoptive parents are required to complete adoptions in a Bolivian court. International adoptions must state that it is an adopcion plena which is irrevocable. The previous practice of granting legal custody with the stated intention of completing adoption abroad is no longer an option.
Most cases take four to six weeks once the adoptive parents are in Bolivia.
However, unexpected delays have occurred even in the final stages of the adoption process. The Embassy cannot issue the child an immigrant visa until all Bolivian processing is completed. Embassy of Bolivia Consular Section 3014 Massachusetts Ave. Upon arrival in Bolivia to try to arrange an adoption, U.S. citizens should register at the American Embassy, Consular Section, American Citizens Services. The Embassy will be able to provide information about any outstanding travel advisories and to provide other information about Bolivia including lists of physicians, attorneys, interpreters and translators.