How to apply for an adoption certificate in India
What's the story
Adopting a child is a life-altering choice, with many legal processes involved. One of the essential steps is getting an adoption certificate.
This certificate serves as the legal evidence of the adoption, confirming the child's new identity with their adoptive parents.
While the process may seem daunting, understanding the steps involved can demystify it and make it less overwhelming.
Step 1
Understanding the legal framework
Before you apply for an adoption certificate in India, you should understand the laws that protect you and your child.
The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) regulates all adoptions in India to ensure they follow the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Understanding these laws empowers you as a prospective parent by providing clarity about your rights and obligations.
Step 2
Registering with an authorized agency
The first concrete step in the process of adopting a child in India is registering with a recognized adoption agency under CARA.
This requires submitting an application accompanied by essential documents, including identity proofs, income statements, and medical certificates.
The agency subsequently performs a home study to evaluate the appropriateness of the prospective adoptive parents.
Step 3
Matching and referral process
Once registered, parents are matched with a child according to their preferences and the child's requirements.
After a match is made, they receive a referral from CARA containing the child's background information.
They have 45 days to either accept or reject the referral. Accepting it brings them one step closer to completing the adoption process.
Step 4
Filing for adoption petition
Once they accept a referral, the parents are required to file an adoption petition in the court within two months.
This petition contains information about both prospective adoptive parents and the child as well as reasons for adoption.
If the hearing goes well, the court will issue an order permitting the adoption subject to certain terms and conditions.
Step 5
Obtaining adoption certificate
The last step is to get a legal adoption certificate from CARA once the court approves your petition.
This certificate officially and legally acknowledges you as the parent(s) of your adopted child.
You need to provide all the necessary documents, including the court order, to CARA through your registered agency. They will then process your application and issue this crucial document.