Adopt From Colombia

Long-Standing Program, Open to New Families

Children in Colombia

Children’s Home has been advocating for children in Colombia for more than 40 years. Colombian children of all ages need families, especially children ages 8 and older, those in sibling groups, and those living with identified needs ranging from minor/correctable to lifelong. Most children in care have been removed from family care due to neglect, abuse, or loss of a caregiver. Children are cared for in orphanages and private foster homes that are supervised by the country’s central adoption authority, the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (ICBF). Children are generally between the ages of 6 months to 15 years at the time of referral.

Eligibility Requirements

Like all international adoption programs, Colombia has its own unique eligibility requirements for adoptive parents. Colombia is open to married couples and singles, including LGBTQAI+ applicants. All applicants must be at least 25-55 years old (at time of child referral); some exceptions made for applicants up to age 59. Applicants must be at least 15 years and no more than 45 years older than the child(ren) they wish to adopt. If married, applicants must be married at least two years (premarital cohabitation is recognized). Applicants cannot have serious physical or mental health concerns. Full requirements for singles, couples, and families with Colombian heritage can be found here.

The Process

The first steps are to apply and begin the home study process. If you live in Minnesota, Children’s Home can complete your home study. If you live elsewhere, you need to find an agency licensed in your state to complete your home study and we will serve as the primary provider/placing agency. We will then guide you to apply for USCIS approval and compile a dossier that is sent to Colombia.

Wait times from dossier submission to referral (match to a child) vary depending on openness but typically range from 6-18 months. Families open to a child with moderate or lifelong conditions, as well as those adopting a waiting child (including children identified through the Kidsave program) can expect a shorter timeframe.

Travel occurs approximately 5-9 weeks after official referral acceptance. One trip of approximately 3-5 weeks is required; for couples, one parent may return to the U.S. after approximately 2 weeks. Post-adoption reporting is required at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after the adoption date; two additional reports at 30 and 36 months are required for children age 8 and older.

Helpful Resources