What legal aspects do I need to consider when it comes to international adoption?
February 27, 2024 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Alexander Voigt
Dear lawyer,
My name is Emil Lauer and I am currently involved in the process of international adoption of a child. I am not sure at all which legal aspects I need to consider and therefore hope for your help.
The situation is as follows: My wife and I have decided to adopt a child from abroad, as we have been trying unsuccessfully to become parents naturally for years. We have chosen to adopt from a specific country where we already have personal contacts and are confident that we can provide the child with a loving and stable home.
However, we are currently unsure about the legal steps and requirements we need to follow to legally secure the international adoption. We want to ensure that all necessary documents are correctly filled out and all legal regulations are followed to avoid any potential problems or complications in the future.
So my question to you is: What legal aspects do we need to consider in international adoption? Are there specific laws or regulations that we need to take into account? How can we ensure that the adoption is legally valid and that all parties involved are protected?
I would be very grateful if you could advise us on this important matter and provide us with possible solutions.
Sincerely,
Emil Lauer
Dear Mr. Lauer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the international adoption of a child. It is understandable that you wish to inform yourself about the legal aspects of this complex matter to ensure that the adoption is legally valid and all parties involved are protected.
In an international adoption, there are various legal steps and requirements that must be followed to legally secure the adoption. It is important to note that international adoptions in Germany are governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. This convention sets international standards and procedures for adoptions to ensure the protection of the rights of the child and the adoptive parents.
To be able to proceed with an international adoption, you must first meet the requirements of adoption law in Germany. This includes being at least 25 years old and having full legal capacity. Additionally, you must be able to provide a loving and stable home for the child. It is important to understand that international adoption is a lifelong commitment and should be carefully considered.
Furthermore, you must carefully complete and submit all necessary documents. These include a certified copy of the birth register, medical certificates regarding your health and financial situation, as well as a certificate of good conduct. These documents will be reviewed by the relevant authorities to ensure that you are suitable as adoptive parents.
Additionally, you must familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations of the country from which you wish to adopt the child. Each country has different regulations and procedures for international adoptions that must be followed. It is advisable to contact the embassies or consulates of the relevant country early on to obtain all necessary information.
To ensure that the adoption is legally valid, I strongly recommend seeking advice from an experienced international law attorney. Such an attorney can provide comprehensive guidance, accompany you through all legal steps, and ensure that the adoption meets the legal requirements.
I hope this information is helpful to you and wish you success in your international adoption.
Sincerely,
Alexander Voigt, Attorney at Law specializing in International Law
