russian adoptions

[brad836 0]

My wife and I were talking about adopting a child, and was wondering if anyone had any experience with russian addoption agencies? we are prepared to spend time in russia getting to know child first. look like there is a million of these againces and we dont want to get taken. just wondering if anyone had any experience with a particular reputable agency?

thank you

[Thomas-n-Elena 0]

My wife and I were talking about adopting a child, and was wondering if anyone had any experience with russian addoption agencies? we are prepared to spend time in russia getting to know child first. look like there is a million of these againces and we dont want to get taken. just wondering if anyone had any experience with a particular reputable agency?

thank you

I dont have personal experience but I have anecdotal experience. A colleague and his wife were attempting to adopt a child from Russia, I believe most of the agencies require a min of 2 visits, the agencies chaperon you, not really allowed to explore much yourself. The biggest issue is making sure the infant is healthy(as with most adoptions), FAS(Fetal Alchohol Syndrome) is pretty prevalent there so you should have a pediatrician in your home country that can help you with tests for it. The biggest piece of advice, research the agencies, find out who they are, who they work with, get reference(i.e. people you can call and discuss their experience with). Make sure you get everything in writing, the Russian govt from what I have been told has a habit of making things difficult when they feel like it. My colleague has actually given up on Russia and is looking domestically for an infant. Take this all with a grain of salt like I said it is coming second hand.

[slim 1,525]

My mom was looking for a while too and, much like our recent sutiors, ditched Russia in favor of Ukraine. It's just an easier process. If you want a kid quick and easy, you can't beat Africa.

[mox 298]

I would start with your local state adoption agency. They're going to know who the reputable firms are, and which ones have taken people for a ride. They'll also try to convince you to adopt locally of course, but I'm sure they'll be more than willing to help you from getting scammed too.

[eekee 182]

Bear in mind that Russian adoption laws are designed to keep kids in Russia. Children have to be in the system for a while before they can be adopted by a foreigner. Many of the healthy babies are often adopted already by the time they'd be eligible for foreign adoption. I second Slim's suggestion of Ukraine.

[Brad and Vika 129]

I have a client who is currently involved in the process in Russia, and another that adopted a child a few years ago. PM me and I will tee up the agency names for you (I need to call them first).