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Chilean Children
Most children are older than 4. This is a great program for parents who want older children.
Note: The requirements and process below is combined with US laws, but it should be a basis
for citizens of other countries.
Requirements
One spouse should be of Chilean descent, those couples have priority over those who aren't Chilean. Married couples between
26 and 59 may adopt. Singles cannot adopt. There must be at least a 20 year age difference between the child and parents.
At least one parent must be an American citizen (either through birth or naturalization). Both parents must agree to the adoption.
Process
The State Dep. recommends that prospective parents contact the Embassy before starting an adoption.
Couples must contact the Chilean govt's adoption branch (SENAME) before moving forward with the adoption. They must be approved,
and then they are matched with a child. The child's parents have their parental rights terminated and the child became eligible
for adoption by a judge. There is a court hearing, an adoption decree is signed, and the child obtains a new birth certificate
with the adoptive parents names. Then the child will obtain a passport to come to the US, which is the longest stage, taking
several weeks. Children can't leave Chile until the adoption is complete. Parents must work directly with the two govts, but
a lawyer working with SENAME (which the embassy has a list of), is recommended for the court hearing.
Documents Needed
Before parents are approved by SENAME, they must collect their birth and marriage certificates, Chilean Consul in the US'
certificate stating the parents met US adoption requirements, home study, physical and psychological reports, financial statement,
photos of the parents, 3 letters of recommendation from an American community, religious or govt. authority, and a US embassy
certificate stating the adopted child will receive US citizenship automatically once they enter the US with an immigrant visa.
Parents must also obtain an immigrant visa for the child before the adoption is complete.
Weather / Climate
Other Information / Chile
Santiago is the capital. Chile has a long coastline and the Andes Mountains are always close-by. Chile is bordered by Argentina,
Bolivia, and Peru. The summer season from November to February, and winter is from June to August.
Major Reasons Chilean Children are being put up for Adoption
Advantages
Only one trip to Chile is necessary.
Disadvantages
US State Dep's Page on Chilean adoption.
Personal adoption story from Chile.
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