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What is the difference between "natural" and "social" orphans?
In Armenia, there are both "natural" and "social" orphans. Natural orphans are children who have no mother or father and who are thus eligible for adoption without the additional step of obtaining parental relinquishment. Social orphans are those children who have at least one living parent, but whose parent(s) is/are unable or unwilling to care for them. Social orphans are in the custody of the orphanage, but cannot be adopted without relinquishment from the parent(s).
Are there any orphanages located in southern Armenia?
No. There are no orphanages south of Massis, where Elen Orphanage is located (see Locations for a map of the orphanages in Armenia). SOS Children's Village may open an orphanage in southern Armenia some time in 2007, but no plans have been finalized.
If I want to visit all 15 orphanages, how easy would that be?
The 15 orphanages are located in central and northern Armenia (see Locations for a map). The 6 orphanages located in Gyumri, Spitak, and Vanadzor are approximately 1 hour from each other. It is approximately a 2-hour drive between the orphanages located in northern Armenia and those in central Armenia.
If I am a United States citizen, how long does an adoption in Armenia take?
The process should take between 12 and 14 months - approximately 6 months for the domestic process and slightly more for finalizing everything in Armenia. Please note, however, that delays are always possible.
How expensive is the adoption process?
This is a difficult question. Some costs are fixed, while some are variable. But, you will likely spend at least $20,000 from start to finish. Please go to Step by Step for a specific breakdown of expenses.
Is there a lot of paperwork during the adoption process?
Absolutely! That said, you will discover that a lot of what is needed is the same paperwork. Keep multiple copies of every document you create and procure. Inevitably, you will need it again.
I want to adopt a healthy infant. How many orphanages house healthy children under the age of 2?
There are 5 orphanages that house healthy infants - Elen, Hadug Tibi, Nork, SOS Children's Village, and Vanadzor. Please go to Photos and Descriptions for specific information about these orphanages.
I want to adopt a handicapped infant. How many orphanages house handicapped children under the age of 2?
There are 3 orphanages that house handicapped infants - Children's Home of Gyumri, Hadug Tibi, and Sisters of Charity. Please go to Photos and Descriptions for specific information about these orphanages.
When sort of disabilities do the "handicapped" children in Armenia have?
"Handicapped" includes both mental and physical disabilities. Certain physical problems (e.g., cleft lips) are NOT classified as physical handicaps because they are correctable (easily or otherwise). The handicapped children in Armenia suffer from serious and irreversible mental (e.g., Down's syndrome) and physical (e.g., paralysis) disabilities.
Do I need an adoption coordinator/facilitator in Armenia to assist with the process?
An adoption coordinator/facilitator is not required, but is recommended. The process is not an uncomplicated one, and unless you live in Armenia and know the process intimately, having someone working with you can only help.
What is involved in the court appearances?
There are two court appearances. The first, and lengthier of the two, involves a judge (in the city where the orphanage housing your child is located) asking you questions about your paperwork. The questions are designed to confirm the answers you provided in your paperwork. The first court appearance takes between 60 and 90 minutes. The second court appearance, when the judge signs the final decree, takes approximately 15 minutes.
I have heard that a trip to Tbilisi, Georgia, is required for people adopting from the United States. Is that true?
That is no longer true. Until recently (March 2006), the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan was unable to issue final immigration documents for children adopted by American families. As of April 2006, however, their capabilities have expanded, and trips to Georgia are no longer necessary.
What is involved in the final interview at the U.S. Embassy?
The final interview at the U.S. Embassy takes approximately 90 minutes. The interviewers review all of your final paperwork, ask questions about your adoption process, confirm that there are no lingering immigration issues, and inform you of when you will be permitted to leave Armenia.
I do not speak Armenian. Is there anyone who can serve as a translator while I am in Armenia?
Yes, translators are available. Please contact George S. Yacoubian, Jr. for additional information.
Does a child adopted from Armenia (by American citizens) automatically become a citizen of the United States upon completion of the adoption?
Yes. On February 27, 2001, the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 became effective. The aim of this law is to facilitate the automatic acquisition of U.S. citizenship for both biological and adopted children of U.S. citizens. The following are the Act's requirements: 1) at least one parent of the child must be a U.S. citizen, either by birth or naturalization; 2) the child must be under the age of 18; and 3) the adoption must be final. As soon as the law's requirements are met, the child acquires U.S. citizenship automatically without the need to apply for either a passport or a Certificate of Citizenship. Please consult an attorney or adoption specialist for clarification as specific immigration requirements are constantly changing.
I am thinking about adopting from Armenia, but am overwhelmed by what I think will be a lengthy and tedious process. Who can I talk to if I have additional questions?
The process is indeed a lengthy one, and one that will surely bring out frustration at various points. That said, it is manageable if you are patient and pay attention to detail. If you have any questions not addressed on this web site, please contact George S. Yacoubian, Jr. for additional information.
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