What is the difference between an agency adoption and a "private adoption"?
There is no such thing as a "private adoption" anymore. All adoptions in British Columbia are done either through the Ministry or an adoption agency .
Am I too old to adopt?
British Columbia doesn't have an age restriction but different countries have different requirements. Speak with a Sunrise Managing Director to see if there is a Program that is right for you.
How much does it cost to adopt?
The cost of adopting an infant in BC starts at around $15,000. Intercountry adoptions vary from $18,000 to over $50,000 depending on the program.
How do I qualify to adopt?
First, prospective adoptive parents must be approved to adopt on the basis of a "homestudy" which is an education and assessment process. There are requirements for medical check-ups, financial statements, references, criminal record checks and Ministry prior contacts checks but the majority of the homestudy is an educational process. Prospective adoptive parents learn about being a parent, dealing with issues specific to being an adoptive parent and deciding what sort of adoption is right for them. A Sunrise social worker will meet with you many times over a period of several months and help you through the process.
Do you ever turn down adoptive parents?
Yes, it isn't common, but it does happen.
How long does it take to adopt a baby in British Columbia?
The timeline is unpredictacle and impossible to estimate. Once your homestudy is complete and has been approved, you are eligible to adopt. Birrthparents usually choose the adoptive parents so you might be chosen very quickly, or never chosen, or anywhere in between.
How long does it take to adopt from another country?
Timelines vary by country. Some country programs are more predictable than others but even in the midst of an adoption a country can change the rules or even close its doors to adoption.
May I choose the sex of the child?
Some countries allow you to specify the gender of the child you wish to adopt, but many don't. In domestic adoption, the birthparents frequently choose the adopting parents before the child is born when the gender is not yet known.