Local adoption with an inter-country element

About
What you should do
How long does it take
How much does it cost
Forms to complete
Who to contact

 

 

About local adoption with an inter-country element

If you are a foreigner living in South Africa and want to adopt a South African child, you must contact an accredited social worker or an adoption organisation. The organisation need not be accredited for inter-country adoptions.

You must have been in South Africa for a period of five years and must submit proof of residence and your work permit. You application for the adoption will be regarded as national adoption.

What you should do

  1. Contact your nearest appropriate adoption organisation.
  2. The adoption organisation will conduct a screening/home study to check if you are fit and proper to adopt a child.
  3. If the organisation is satisfied with the results, they will put you on the Register of Adoptable Children and Adoptive Parents while they help you search for a child who is available for adoption.
  4. If a child is available, they will call you to the offices to meet the child and ask you if you are interested in adopting the child.
  5. If you agree, they will send your report to the Children’s Court to finalise the adoption and issue an adoption order.
  6. The court report will be sent to the Department of Social Development for them to check if the correct procedure was followed and to record both your and the child’s details.

How long does it take

It differs from one case to another.

How much does it cost

The cost will depend on the agency you use.

Forms to complete

All forms are available at your nearest Department of Social Development office.

Who to contact

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