Conditions for adopting a child from outside the Netherlands

Conditions for couples adopting a child from outside the Netherlands

The following conditions apply to couples:

• Adoption by a man and a woman

  A married man and woman may adopt a child from outside the Netherlands together.

• Adoption by same-sex couples

  Same-sex couples (2 men or 2 women) may adopt a child from outside the Netherlands together. However, this is only possible if the country in question will allow a child to be adopted by a same-sex couple.

• Single-parent adoption

  In principle 1 person may adopt a child from outside the Netherlands on their own. However, the scope for single-parent adoption is limited outside the Netherlands. Many countries prefer married couples. In addition, most countries will not accept individual applicants with a partner of the same sex.

General conditions for adopting a child from outside the Netherlands

Besides the conditions that apply specifically to couples and individuals, there are a number of general conditions for adopting a child from outside the Netherlands.

• You must be under the age of 42 when you request the declaration of approval in principle. In certain circumstances an exception may be made.
• You and, if applicable, your partner must give permission for the Criminal Records Register to be consulted.
• The age difference between the older adoptive parent and the child may not be more than 40 years. In certain circumstances an exception may be made.
• Your health may not form an obstacle to the adoption. You must undergo a medical examination.
• You must be resident in the Netherlands.
• From the moment the child leaves its country to come to the Netherlands you are obliged to pay for the care and upbringing of the child.
• The child’s country of origin may also set conditions for the adoption, for example relating to your health, age or income.

Declaration of approval in principle

The adoption procedure starts when you apply for a declaration of approval in principle from the Foundation Adoption Services. The Central Authority on International Children’s Issues ensures the adoption procedure is conducted with due care and that the adoption is in the best interests of the child. The arrangements for adopting children from abroad are laid down in the Hague Adoption Convention.

Mediation during the adoption procedure

The mediation phase is part of the adoption procedure. Mediation for adoption is conducted by a licence holder. Licence holders are organisations that have been licensed by the Ministry of Security and Justice to act as mediators during the adoption of a child from another country.