3 Responses to “How would I start to get info on adopting from Russia? How much does it cost?”

1. suggir_bear on January 2nd, 2010 2:04 am
   

   Adoption Feedback: It depends on the adoption agency you choose. I would pick one that does paperwork both here in the US and in Russia. Pick a reputable one. Check out the BBB. And, get referals.

   I have no idea what state you live in so I can’t give you referrals. We started the process here in Ohio last year, but learned a few weeks later we were pregnant.

   You should check the agency out thoroughly. Learn the paperwork process. You’ll have to fill out a dossier. It’s paperwork on you, hubby, family, and home. They want to see your birth records (prove citizenship), bank records (prove you have enough money to care for child), and other misc documents like what your home looks like, where the child will sleep (his/her room), and your passport info.

   The cost here is around a $10,000 fee to Russia government for paperwork on their end. Plus, your agency’s fees here in US. They’ll charge document fees. You’ll have forms you’ll have to fill out like affidavits and health insurance forms and refrences from friends, family, and co-workers. They also want letters from your employer about job history and stability of work.

   Even though your agency charges fees this isn’t the end of the expense. You will have fees that won’t be included. Like travel and stay two the country. When we started this last year Russia required to seperate visits. On these visits you’ll get to spend time with your child! Plus, any passport/visa fees won’t be included. Nor will notary fees or paperwork fees at your local government. You’ll also want to make sure your agency finalizes the adoption here in the US. You can do this with your local Probate Court. Agencies in Ohio don’t do this for you.

   It’s a long process, but worth it in the end!

   Hope this helped you!
2. Me! :-) on January 2nd, 2010 7:05 am
   

   Adoption Feedback: good luck
3. Lanita on January 2nd, 2010 10:48 am
   

   The first places I would start would be the state department’s website on intercountry adoption. They list by countries and it will be a good place to get an overview of what you will need. http://adoption.state.gov/ Then I would go to the Joint Council on International Children’s Services. http://www.jcics.org. They will list reputable agencies that have Russian programs. The cost will run somewhere between $20,000 and $30,000. This will include fees, dossier preparation, travel costs, etc.

   Good luck.

Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!