Adopting a child in India is a noble and emotional journey that allows families to provide a loving home to children in need. It is a simple legal process managed by the Central Adoption Resource Authority. It is open to Indian citizens, NRIs, and foreign nationals. The process begins with registering on the CARA website and a completing a home study conducted by a licensed Agency. Once approved prospective parents can view profiles of children eligible for adoption. After matching legal formalities like court orders are required to complete the adoption. The process keeps the child safe and helps families share love and care with child who needs it.
Here is a step by step process
Before starting it is essential to check if you meet the eligibility criteria.
For married couples: The couple must have a stable marriage for at least last 2 years.
Age Factors: The combined age of the couple should not exceed 90 years (for adopting a child below 4 years)
To adopt a child between 4 to 8 years
- Single parent : Must not be older than 50 years
- Couple: Combined age should not exceed 100 years.
To adopt a child between 8 and 18 years the age criteria are
Single parent must not be older than 55 years while the combined age should not be more than 110 years.
But the above age restriction is not applied when the adoption is within relatives or it is by a step parent.
Financial Stability: Applicants should be financial stable to raise a child.
Registration
The First step is to register on the official website CARA website. https://cara.wcd.gov.in
- Fill out the application form
- Submit documents like identity proof, income certificate, marriage certificate (if required) and medical fitness certificate.
Home Study Report
After successful registration, a licensed registration agency conducts a home study to evaluate the eligibility of the applicant.
- A social worker visits the applicant’s residence for physical checking.
- They assess different factors like living conditions, family support and parenting readiness.
- Then a final report is submitted to the CARA for review.
Child Profile checking
- Once approved by CARA parents can view the profiles of children for adoption.
- CARA assigns a child based on applicant’s preference such as age, gender.
- The agency shares the details of the child like photographs, medical history and background.
Matching and acceptance
Parents can meet the child and decide if they wish to proceed. If they agree they need to file acceptance documents through CARA.
The agency then prepares the legal paperwork.
The Next step is Legal Formalities
The adoption must be legally recognized in court. After reviewing all the documents and every detail the court finally grants the adoption.
Once the legal formalities are completed the parents can bring the child home. CARA monitors the family adjustments for a few months through follow up visits.
Total Costs Involved
Adoption through CARA is affordable and transparent.
- Registration fee RS6000/-
- Home study and other agency fees RS40,000 – Rs50,000
Some important tips to remember
Be patient as the process can take 6 months to 2 years.
Only trust CARA recognized agencies to avoid scams. Keep all documents to avoid unnecessary delays.
Conclusion
Adopting a child in India is a fulfilling journey of providing love, care and stability to a child in need. Families can ensure a transparent and secure adoption by following a CARA regulated process.
