How long does it take?
The overall time it takes to have a child placed from the date of the first inquiry is likely to range from 5 to 7 years. (As at the end of 2007)
The adoption application and placement processes involve waiting times at different stages.
Waiting time to be invited to participate in the Information Seminar
Information Seminars are held monthly. A maximum of 60 people are invited to attend. Contact the Information Officer.
The time it takes to be approved as an adoptive parent
On average, it takes about 2 years for a decision to be made on whether you are suitable to be an adoptive parent. This is from the time that you go to an introductory information seminar about adoption, held by the Adoption Service.
The time from approval to a possible placement of a child
The placement of a locally born child can not be estimated since it depends upon the birth parents preferences for their child: it can be soon after approval or take much longer.
For those adopting from overseas, from the time you are approved to being offered a child for adoption, can take an average of 2 to 3 years. However please not that these times do change. The time is affected by the number of children in need of overseas adoption and is dependent on the particular county’s processes and policies.
It is important to note that even though you may be approved there is no guarantee that you will be offered a child, as there are many more prospective adoptive parents than children available.
For more information see: