Many of the most commonly-asked questions about the adoption process are answered below. If you have additional questions not addressed here, please contact us. How long does the international adoption process take? How much will an international adoption cost? How much travel will be involved in completing an adoption? Do I have to be married to adopt a child? How quickly will an adopted child learn English? How easily will an adopted child adjust culturally? When will my adopted child become a U.S. citizen? How can I get started with an international adoption? How long does the international adoption process take? Programs vary by country, and the total amount of time your adoption takes will depend on many factors. The process may take as little as four months, or as long as 13 months. Back to top How much will an international adoption cost? Again, each country's program is different and fees vary widely. On average, the cost to adopt internationally is equivalent to (or slightly less than) the cost of a domestic adoption, which ranges from $12,000 to $24,000. You do not pay this in one lump sum. The fees are paid at various stages throughout the adoption process. AMI's fees are based on the available professional services abroad, our actual agency expenses, and donations to the orphanages. If you are interested in a specific program, contact us and we will be able to provide you with a more accurate estimated cost range. Back to top How much travel will be involved in completing an adoption? AMI strongly encourages parents to travel at least once to meet their adoptive child(ren), and to get to know your child's native country and culture. In some cases, escort service is available (for an additional fee) to accompany your child home. Some programs do require two trips overseas. AMI has trained bilingual representatives who will meet you at the airport ans assist you with obtaining custody, the adoption decree, and filing for an orphan visa at the American Consulate. You will not feel abandoned, isolated, or confused — our reps will take very good care of you while you are abroad, and help you at every step along the way. If you choose, AMI will assist in locating inexpensive tickets and arranging accommodations in Western-style hotels for your trip. For exact travel requirements for a specific program, please contact us. Back to top Do I have to be married to adopt a child? No. Age restrictions and marital status are very flexible with international adoption. You do not have to be married to adopt. AMI accepts applications from married couples and singles between the ages of 25 and 60, childless or with children, and without regard to race or religious affiliation. Back to top How quickly will an adopted child learn English? Children usually start speaking new words immediately, sentences within a few months, and are often fluent English speakers in less than one year. Back to top How easily will an adopted child adjust culturally? Children are like sponges and adjust to changing cultures very quickly. Most adoptive parents choose to learn as much as they can about the country and culture they are adopting their child from, and bring back souvenirs and momentos of their child's adoption to make the transition even easier. If necessary, AMI can help families connect with an adoption and/or cultural support group. Back to top When will my adopted child become a U.S. citizen? If your child's adoption was finalized abroad, then he or she automatically becomes a U.S. citizen upon entering the U.S. You can request a confirmation of citizenship certificate from the USCIS, or simply apply for a U.S. passport for your child. Back to top How can I get started with an international adoption? If you are completely unfamiliar with the international adoption process, we suggest that you begin by attending one of our informational seminars, which will provide you with information about the process and answer many of your questions. If you decide to proceed, the process begins with your completed application form. The second step is a home study, conducted by a certified social worker, to assess your ability to parent a child. This legal document proves that you are physically, emotionally, and financially able to parent. The study requires several interviews (including one in your home), and takes about 4-6 weeks to complete. Back to top © 2000-2008 Adoption Miracle International, Inc. All rights reserved.