Decide which type of adoption you want to pursue
Learn your country or state adoption laws and requirements
Choose an adoption route such as agency, private, foster care, or international
Complete required training and education
Submit an adoption application
Provide background checks, fingerprints, and references
Complete a home study
Gather required financial, medical, and personal documents
Attend interviews and home visits
Wait for approval as an adoptive parent
Create an adoption profile if required
Match with a child through an agency or attorney
Review the child’s legal and medical information
Meet the child if allowed and appropriate
Consent to the placement and sign required documents
Complete the placement period and required supervision
File legal paperwork to finalize the adoption
Attend the finalization hearing
Obtain the final adoption decree and amended birth certificate