Adoption is a powerful way to build or grow a family. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or you’re ready to take the next step, it helps to understand the requirements involved. In Arizona, adoption is open to a wide range of individuals and families, and there are several different paths to consider—from working with an agency to pursuing an international adoption.
Who Can Adopt in Arizona?
Arizona makes adoption available to a broad group of adults. Here’s what’s required:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to adopt. If you’re fostering to adopt, the minimum age is 21.
- Residency: Adoptive parents must live in Arizona.
- Marital status: You may be single, married, divorced, or widowed. Joint adoption is available to married couples.
- Legal presence: You must be lawfully present in the United States.
- Background checks: All adult household members must pass both local and FBI background checks and be fingerprinted.
- Health: Physical and mental health must be stable and documented through a doctor’s note.
- Finances: You need to show that you’re financially able to support a child, even if you’re not wealthy.
What to Expect from the Home Study
The home study is a required step in nearly every adoption. It’s designed to evaluate your home, background, and readiness to become a parent.
Here’s what it typically includes:
- A series of in-home visits and interviews with all household members.
- A review of your income, medical records, and references.
- At least 10 hours of adoption education (more for international adoptions).
- A written report that’s submitted to the court to help determine your eligibility.
The process can take several weeks to complete, so it’s a good idea to start early.
Different Types of Adoption in Arizona
Arizona offers several adoption options to meet different family needs.
- Agency Adoption: This is done through a licensed adoption agency, often involving children in foster care. These children may have been removed from their birth families due to neglect or abuse.
- Private Adoption: This usually involves infants and is arranged directly between the birth and adoptive parents, often with help from an attorney or private agency.
- Foster-to-Adopt: In this path, you begin as a foster parent and may adopt the child if reunification with their birth parents is not possible. You typically must foster the child for six months before adopting.
- Stepparent or Relative Adoption: These cases are often quicker and less expensive. Arizona makes it easier for stepparents and close relatives to adopt when it’s in the child’s best interest.
What About International Adoption?
International adoption is more complex, but it is still very possible with the right planning.
Here are the steps:
- Work with a Hague-accredited agency: This ensures compliance with international and U.S. laws.
- Complete an international home study: This must meet both Arizona and foreign country requirements.
- Get USCIS approval: File Form I-800A (for Hague countries) or I-600A (for others) to be approved to adopt internationally.
- Accept a child referral: Once matched, you’ll need to file paperwork to determine if the child is eligible to immigrate to the U.S.
- Secure the visa: Common types include IH-3 or IR-3, depending on whether the adoption was finalized abroad.
- Re-adopt in Arizona (if needed): Some visa types require finalization or re-adoption in your home state.
What Does Adoption Cost?
The cost of adoption in Arizona varies depending on the path you choose.
- Foster and agency adoptions: Often low-cost or even free. Some families may receive reimbursements for certain expenses.
- Private adoptions: These can cost between $20,000 and $40,000, depending on attorney fees, agency support, and birth-parent expenses.
- International adoptions: Typically range from $25,000 to $50,000, factoring in travel, immigration, and legal fees.
- Financial support: Tax credits, grants, and employer assistance programs may help offset expenses.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Adopting a child is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make. Whether you’re pursuing domestic, private, or international adoption, understanding the process helps you feel more confident and prepared. At Cohen Family Law, we’ve helped Arizona families build their futures through adoption. If you’re thinking about growing your family, we can help you get started. Call today to schedule a consultation.
