Applying to the court to adopt a child in the Netherlands

You can adopt a child in the Netherlands by making an application to the district court. The district court will decide whether adoption is possible.

Last updated on 10 august 2021

Eligibility to adopt a child

Conditions apply to adopting a child in the Netherlands. You must be at least 18 years older than the adopted child.

Applying to adopt a child

Applications for adoption are made to the district court. You will need the help of a lawyer to do this.

Laws and regulations (in Dutch)

Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 1, titel 12

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