Dossier:  The dossier is completed in two steps. Completion of the first part typically takes 1–2 months and is required before you receive information about a child (known as a “referral”). The second part of the dossier must be completed in order to get a court date in Russia. The content of the dossier varies according to the region you’re adopting from in Russia. It consists of your adoption study as well as various certificates, verifications and petitions to Russian Ministries. 

Referral:  After Part 1 of the dossier is submitted, it generally takes one to 12 months to receive a child referral. The wait varies depending on the region and whether you have specified a preference for a particular age range or gender. Once you receive your child referral, if you have questions, we will make every effort to get answers.

Travel:  Two trips are required to adopt through our Russia program.  During your adoption trips, our staff will provide interpreters and/or drivers to meet you, take you to your host family or hotel, translate for you, get you to appointments, and assist you in every way they can. You will usually be able to spend time each day with your child during your second trip, but you will not be able to permanently take your child from the orphanage until the adoption decree and the new birth certificate have been issued (usually 2 days after the court hearing).

The first trip is to officially receive your referral, and the second trip is comprised of your court hearing, waiting period (not always applicable) and completion of paperwork. After your paperwork has been completed on the second trip, you and your child will travel to Moscow for your child's medical exam (U.S. requirement), your appointment at the U.S. Embassy to obtain your child's visa, and registration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Russia requirement). After completing these steps, you are free to return home with your child. Our coordinator can help you make the final arrangements to return home. 

Post Placement Requirements