While it is possible to adopt an adult foreigner in the United States, it does not give them a leg up or change the immigration process. In other words, U.S. immigration laws do not extend special benefits based on adult adoption. That said, adopted by a U.S. citizen may entitle the adoptee to inheritance rights. Read on to learn more about adult adoption and immigration in the U.S and the five elements necessary for a U.S. citizen to adopt an undocumented immigrant.
U.S. Adult Adoption and Immigration Scams: DON’T Fall Victim!
Unfortunately, people looking to immigrate to the U.S. often find themselves the unsuspecting subjects of scams. In fact, many individuals fall victim to fraudsters. For example, some U.S. companies have offered adult adoption and immigration services as a pathway to citizenship. However, these companies are actually promoting SCAMS, as adult adoption is NOT a way to citizenship.
The “Migration Program” Scam
In February 2016, a California man was charged in a phony adult immigration program that he had operated over four years. From October 2012 to January 2016, the program enticed foreigners seeking immigration by falsely promoting immigration status via adult adoption by American citizens. During this time, the company sold their sham adult adoption and immigration services to individuals who paid anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin Wagner, who prosecuted the case, stated:
The indictment returned alleges a particularly predatory and manipulative type of fraud that takes advantage of the hopes and dreams of undocumented immigrants to extract fees based on false promises. The adoption of adult aliens is not a legitimate path to U.S. citizenship. While the charges against this defendant are only allegations at this point, no one should pay fees to anyone making false promises of citizenship through adult adoption.
Ultimately, Helaman Hansen was sentenced to 20 years in prison and a $576,264 fine for his fraudulent “services”.
Legal Criteria to Adopt an Undocumented Immigrant
1. An Adult Undocumented Immigrant Must Meet Minimum Age Requirements
U.S. law allows adoption of individuals 16-years-old and younger. Additionally, the U.S. also allows adoption of children 18-years-old and under in the event the adopting child is a sibling of a child under 16 who has been or will be adopted by the same parents. Due to the long length of the adoption process, adoptive parents are encouraged to initiate the process when the child is 15 or younger.
2. The Adopting Parent Must Meet Marriage or Age Requirements
In order to adopt, the parents must include one U.S. citizen and spouse or a single-parent U.S. citizen at least 25-years-old. Additionally, the court must determine the adopting parent is suitable and eligible to adopt and have the intent to create a permanent legal relationship.
3. The Child Must Be Eligible for Intercountry Adoption
The Central Authority of the child’s country of origin must determine that a child is eligible for intercountry adoption. Then, they must approve the proposed adoption placement. Finally, the child must yet have been adopted by or placed within the custody of the prospective parent.
4. Biological Parents Must Provide Legal Consent
The child’s biological parents or parent must provide irrevocable legal consent for adoption. Further, they must provide written consent reflecting the termination of parental rights.
5. The Biological Parents Must Be Unable to Provide Proper Care for the Child
The biological parents or parent that provides irrevocable consent to the adoption must be unable to provide proper care for the child. The standard of care will be based on the child’s country of origin’s living standards.
How to Obtain a Green Card for an Adopted Child
Parents must have physical or legal custody of an adopted immigrant for at least two years before they may receive a green card. Additionally, after these two years the child can file a petition for permanent resident status.
If the child entered the U.S. illegally, a parent can file a visa petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) after two years. Then, the USCIS will transfer an approved case to a U.S. consulate abroad. On the other hand, if the child entered the U.S. legally, a parent can file an adjustment of status application with the USCIS.
Adult Adoption Does NOT Affect Immigration or Citizenship Status
In short, adults cannot become United States citizens through adoption. Thus, immigrants MUST be careful not to lose money to criminals who make false claims and promises. If you are interested in immigrating to the United States or obtaining legal green card status, consult a professional. Many legal and governmental professionals routinely handle immigration matters. Plus, feel free to contact A People’s Choice for more information on adult adoption or immigration services and how to legally adopt an adult undocumented immigrant.
Hello Sandra I’m a 65 years old US citizen and I adopted an 8 years old girl in 2007. Now I want to file her immigration to the USA. Can you please help me out in this matter
Unfortunately we do not handle immigration matters.
I am 35yrs old orphan, my parents are both dead and I am on non immigrant status here in the US. Can my unmarried Auntie adopt me?
You should speak to an immigration attorney.
Hi!
I’m interested in adopting my cousin’s son. He is an adult who lives in the Dominican Republic. We have a mother/son bond. I understand there is no benefit for immigration purposes. Is it possible to adopt? Would said adoption have any negative implications should he one day decide to obtain a green card or citizenship via other means?
We can only assist with adult adoptions where both parties reside in the United States.
Hello am 22 years old man from kenya can i get anyone to adopt me in any American country
We do not handle independent adoptions.
Hello, I am 36 years of age, married and with kids in California, could I be adopted and be able to obtain legal residency by my adopted parents? I am under DACA at the moment? my kids area all citizens.
Hello, You should speak with an immigration attorney regarding this matter.
Hello Sir, please I am 32 years. I want to know if I can be adopted.
Hello, Yes, you can go through a process called Adult Adoption. For assistance, please call us at 800-747-2780.
Hello Sandy;
I wanted to know if I can adopt my blood sister’s child who is 22years old. I am 46years old now. Is there any chances I can adopt her? We started her adoption since 2017 but we stopped due to some reasons she was just 17years old back then but now she is 22years old. Is there any possibility to continue with the adoption or we have to start over again?
Absolutely. For our adult Adoption services, please call us at 800-747-2780.
A young lady, (Ecuadorian) 22. Years old has lived us for over 6 yrs and we are going to adopt her. She part of our family, a sibling to our children. She has a student visa or student status and going to start grad school. We have been paying for and will continue to pay for college. I understand adoption will not help for immigration but we can add her on our health insurance. How do we get her Ecuadorian passport changed to our name after adopted.
The order will include the name change so you probably would have to provide that Order to the passport agency that issued her passport
So this is my story. Me and my wife currently financially take care of a Colombian girl who is 15 currently. Her mother will not agree to adoption but the father does. She does not live with either of them and depend on us for financial and moral support. We have no problem with this as we have known her for some years and are very close. She sees us as parents. Would it be possible to adopt her at 18 since the mother disagrees unless she gets something out of the deal. We would like to be able to offer her a chance to attend collage later in the us. We understand this is just a step that does not affect the immigration process but will be willing to do what it takes to insure her future.
Hello,
Unfortunately, this is a matter for a lawyer. With the young lady not being an American citizen, the normal avenues for adoption are not available to you. A lawyer should be able to assist further.
Thank you,
My husband and I live in California, we have a very good friend who we are thinking of adopting. She is 30 and from Russia. She received her citizenship in September and has served in the Air Force Reserves for the past 2 years. She has three children, but the marriage did not work, so she left. But she has access to the children whenever she is available. We would like her to inherit and have established a living trust for that purpose. She does not want to sever ties with her biological parents who are in Russia.
What would be possible advantages or drawbacks to formalizing our relationship”
Hello,
It is difficult to comment on the drawbacks to forming this relationship as that would depend on your level of comfort with being this person’s legal parent. If you are worried about this causing legal issues with you may want to speak with an attorney. Otherwise, it is a very straight forward process that can help when designating to whom your belongings go to in your trust.
Thanks,
Your article was very informative. I’m in Wisconsin. I was thinking of adopting an adult from the Dominican Republic. I was his sponsor and now hes 27. I am aware it has no leg up getting citizenship. That is no concern for me. So it’s just filing papers? Do we both have to appear in court? I appreciate the articles.
Ww only handle California matters. You would need to speak to a Wisconsin attorney.
Hi Sandy, we’ve had our 28 year old Taiwanese student living with us for 4 years! We love her to pieces and she calls us mom and dad and we call her our daughter. She has family in Taiwan but as many know, China wants to take Taiwan back!!!
We want to adopt her so she will legally we our one and only daughter and she will be able to have legal rights as we grow older etc.
If we do get adoption with her will it help in anyway for the next step of citizenship?? I know you’ve stated before in some of your other comments about adopting an adult does that give you a leg up but does it help in any way?
Hello,
Adult adoption in no way affects citizenship. A lawyer would be able to guide through any legal avenues citizenship would take you.
What happens if the child was brought to the US when they were younger, but their time that they were here does not qualify them for DACA? What would be the correct method to make them legal, this person is 19 yrs
I would speak to an immigration attorney.
Hello Sandy,
I have a question…… I have a friend that will soon be turning 20 years old who lives in Ghana I want to legally adopt him I am 61 years old and live in the state of Indiana here in the USA.
Is this possible and what is the approximate cost of the adoption?
Thank you for your help!
Larry
Hi Larry, Yes we can assist with that, the fee is $499 for the paperwork. Please keep in mind this has no bearing on immigration proceedings, but you can call the office on 800-747-2780 if you would like a contract for services.
Hi, Iam US citizen can i adopt my brother daughter ,she has 19 ages now and lives in France.
Hello, and thank you for your inquiry. I would obtain legal advice regarding your situation. Once you know how you would like to move forward, you can call the office on 800-747-2780 and a member of staff can assist.
Hello Sandy,
I am from the Philippines. I would like to ask if I can be adopted by my aunt from USA I am 31 years old single and utterly orphaned since my mother died May this year. My mother is my aunts half sister. We are looking for ways for me to get to USA and to live with my aunt for she now needs someone to closely take care of her. I am college graduate but currently unemployed here in the Philippines.
Thank you hoping for your response.
Hello Maria, We can prepare the adoption paperwork for you. Please keep in mind this has no bearing on immigration status, but if you would like a contract for services, please call the office on 800-747-2780.
Hey Sandy, can a 28 year old American adopt a 55 year old man from Europe? It is not for immigration, just curious if the age difference is bad.
Probably not.
Hi sandy , I am citizen of America living in New York State, I want to adopt my cousin who is 17 years old soon will be 18 in March. She curtly lives in st.vincent. What’s the process. She already has a visa. When would I be able to file for her greencard?
We only handle California adoptions.
Hello Sandy, I am 21 years old living overseas and I have an aunt in new port beach California who is a U.S. citizen can she legally adopt me for a green card or immigration? If not what are my choices?
Hello John, Adoption proceedings have no bearing on immigration status and we do not assist with that process. Should you still with to prepare adoption paperwork, please call the office on 800-747-2780.
Hi Sandy,
I wanted to get some clarification one thing in the article. I know you have stated that adult adoption does not give a step up in the immigration process; does this mean that if I adopt an adult form a foreign country, immigration services will not recognize the adopted adult as my child? Or would I be able to file for an Unmarried child under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizens as if the adult was my naturally born child? Thank you.
I do not believe that adult adoption would provide any benefit regarding immigration whatsoever.
Hi Sandy, we are couple living in Florida over 50 years old and we are looking to adopt our nephew who is 25 years and handicap from Venezuela We would like to know how to start the process.
I would reach out to a Florida attorney to discuss your options.
Hi Sandy,
I am 34years of age currently in the United State pursuing my masters. I’m an international student and my uncle who is a USA citizen wants to adopt me. Is is possible? What could be my options. He is in New York though.
Hello Anibal, we only prepare documents for US residents. You can try avvo.com for legal assistance.
I’i adoupted my son before age sixteen from the country of Dominica I I have full legal coustody of him since adoption he is now Twentyfour can I file an i130pitition
I would speak to an immigration attorney.
I’i adopted my son before age sixteen from the country of Dominica I I have full legal coustody of him since adoption he is now Twentyfour can I file an i130pitition am also a us citizen
I would speak to an immigration attorney about this.
Hi We are US Citizens, we are already in the process of adopting a boy that is 16 years old that lives in Peru, the adoption should be all done by December, so how do I apply to bring him as our boy to the US? Please advise!!
Hello,
Thank you for your reply. You should speak with an immigration attorney.
Thanks,
Hi Ma’am Sandy,
I am single and 47 year old Filipina. My 70 year old uncle who is a US citizen and single wanted me to live with him in California for company and inheritance purposes. Can he legally adopt me as his daughter?
Adult adoption requires both parties to attend the hearing. Some courts require a copy of SS card and DL. If you cannot these requirements you probably should talk to a lawyer.
Hi Ms. Sandy,
I’m a green card holder here in us. My step father adopted me when I was 22 yrs old. After the adoption process they gave me a new birth certificate. The court got my old birth certificate. I’m just wondering if am I citizen already or do I need to go to embassy and file for citizenship?
Adoption has nothing to do with gaining citizenship. I would contact an immigration attorney as soon as possible.
Hi Ms. Sandy, I’m a green card holder. My step father adopted me when I was 22 yrs old. After the adoption process they gave me a new birth certificate from the state and got my old birth certificate from my country. Just wondering if I’m already a citizen since the government gave already a birth certificate?or do I need to go to us embassy to ask them and give them my green card since I have already my birth certificate?
Hi Mrion – I wouuld not be able to answer that question – sorry.
I would like to adopt a 33 year old German man. It is for purely familial reasons to make him legally my son and heir. We have no desire for him to move or change citizenship. I am 53 years old and single.
Adult adoption in California requires both parties to attend the hearing.
Both parties would need to be able to attend the court hearing in person.
. Hi Sandy . I lived in texas since i was 14 years with my aunt . The final adoption ends when i was 16 years . Old can i get a green card..
You need to talk to attorney. We do not handle immigration processes nor can we give you legal advice with regards to this.
I am 65 and began supporting an orphan in Haiti since the 2010 quake. He is now 23 yrs old and learned English so he can communicate by text with me, which we do at least weekly. He finished school and then a 1 yr certificate auto repair program and owns a small home we h as d built for him in Haiti. He wants to come visit us but was denied a tourist visa as he has no employment, not unusual in Haiti. If we adopt him, would that help him get a visa to visit as “immediate family” … he is NOT attempting to get a green card.
I do not believe adopting him would help him get a visa.
check with an attorney.
Hello. I have family and friends in Mexico. One couple is expecting but can not support the child financially and crime is VERY high in their area. I was wondering, as an alternative to putting their baby in an orphanage, could both parents sign the child over to a US citizen? Not an adoption, but a permanent guardianship?
I do not have an answer to this question. I would suggest you get legal advice with regards to this.
Is it possible to adopt a 17 year old relative living in Guatemala before he is 18 years old (which he will be in 8 months)?
Would recommend yow speak with a lawyer.
Hi i am a american citizen and my husband to.But i have a son who was born in Brazil.I became citizen about 15 years ago my husband was born here.When we got married my son was 11 years old .My son now is 35.he has green card .My husband wants to adopt my son .If my husband adopt my son who now is 35 and has green card can became american citizen?
Adult adoption does not impact immigration or the standard immigration process.
A Venezuela mom and her son has lived in Missouri for almost 3 years she couldn’t speak any English she chose to go back to Venezuela and left him here he’s been living with me for 4 months wanted me to adopt him his brother in law called immigration and he was deported today is there anything I can do
I would suggest you speak to an attorney.
Hi Sandy, can you adopt an 18 year old?
There is a process called adult adoption in California which allows for one adult to adopt another adult.
Interesting situation here. I have a yng man here from Nicaragua, 27 yr old.
He came to US illegally when he was only 11 yrs old. He was abandoned by mom in orphanage in Nicaragua. His dad died.
He has no family here or there.
He was put into child services system as a juvenile in US and given a residence status. Now he’s in prisonon an identity theft crime. Was told that he should have no problems with ICE. Now he’s being told he has a detainer. I would like to adopt this yng man.
Would it help to reinstate or secure his residency status if i were to adopt him as an adult? Please advise. Thanks!
As indicated in the article, Adult adoption does not offer any benefits to the standard US immigration or residential status process.
Hello sandy me and my wife would like to adopt a 20 year old family friend we have known all his like he is like our child already his dad has past away and his mother is willing to turn over rights to us is this possible
Hello Robert, we can certainly prepare the paperwork for you. For two adopting parties, the fee would be $599. You may want to get legal advice regarding the process, but please call the office on 800-747-2780 once you are ready to move forward.
I am a 26 year old American citizen. What is the process and first steps to take in adopting my mother or making her a citizen?
Adult adoption does not affect immigration or citizenship.
I am an adult US citizen, can my illegal immigrant stepfather adopt me?
Eventhough my mother and him never married?
Most courts ask for copies of Social Security card and DL license. Not sure your stepfather would be able to provide the required documentation.
What is the process to adopt a 30 year old adult from Uganda. He is a Pastor and we want to make him a legal son in our family.
If he is here in the United States you can probably file an adult adoption proceeding. Keep in mind that adoption does not have any bearing on immigration.
If an adult gets adopted it doesn’t change anything on immigration, but can they then ask for a family based green card?
Adult adoption does not affect immigration in any way so do not assume they will be able to then ask for a family based green card. Check with an immigration attorney.
Hi Sandy, Thanks for your article.
I’m 26 years old, a non immigrant on F-1 visa. Can my friend who is 70+ years old adopt me as a stepparent or single parent? She lives alone, divorced a while ago, and I’d like to help her whenever she needs. But she lives in California and I’m in New Jersey. I know that you stated my immigration process would not get affected if that’s the case for me, what if my visa expires?
Thanks in advance!
I cannot comment on your question. If your visa expires that would make your stay illegal which surely would be problematic. You may want to speak to a lawyer.
Hello Sandy,
I am currently in the US on Work visa. If I adapt my friends daughter who is 18, will she be my dependent? She is currently in the US on Student visa and I take care of her college expenses and she lives with me. I am not sure if this is a question for an immigration attorney but wanted to check with you.
Thank you
We are not able to comment on your question. Sorry.
Hi Sandy,
Is it possible for my grandparents to adopt me as an adult. I am not a citizen and am past 18 years of age. 26 to be precise. I am also currently pursuing my masters in the states and am a legal non immigrant.
If you were here legally in the United States, yes I would think it would be possible for your grandparents and you to file an adult adoption. Keep in mind that not all states offer adult adoption like California does. I’m not sure where you live but if you live in California and you want help with regards to the paperwork, please give our office a call at 800-747-2780.
Dear Sandy, I’am a legal immigrant here in the US, and I’am 27, I live by myself I want just to ask if I still able to be adopted by an American Family, if It still possible What Should I do?. thank you .
Please direct your question to an attorney. If you get the green light and want to proceed with the paperwork you can contact our office.
Dear Sandy, I am a Filipina married to a US citizen we live here in the USA with my 90 year old mother in law… Is it possible for my husband and his mom to adopt my 23 old niece in the Philippines. Thank you
She would have to bee here to attend the hearing and it would NOT give her any leg up regarding the standard and normal immigration process. You may want to talk to immigration attorney as well.
Dear sandy my friend did everything she was supposed to, shes 18 and was here for two years, her grandparents who are legal residents adopted when she was 16 and she still isn’t allowed to have her green card, what should she do
As the article indicates, adult adoption does not change the immigration process nor give someone a leg up getting a green card.
I’m trying to find out the best way to bring this young man to Colorado USA and I’ve had a hard time of it. I need info on what I can do to bring this young man into my home until he’s old enough to go to collage. He is 15 and is sleeping at a friends house because both parent are dead and his sister died not that long ago.
He is a smart young man but I’m afraid he’s falling behind in school because he can’t afford it. He will be going to school and collage. I just want to help any way I can, I just need some one to tell me which direction to start
You did not indicate where this person lives. If they live in another country. I would speak to an immigration lawyer.
Hey I am an 26 years old Indian girl an American lady wants to sponsor a green card for me but I don’t know on what basis can she sponsor me a green card?
I do not know either. Talk to an immigration attorney.
Sandy can i adopt a child to the US which is 17 years at the moment ?
Talk to an attorney who does both immigration and adoption.
Hi Sandy,
My aunt who is a green card holder wants to file for adoption, will It affect my immigration status considering the fact that she’s family.
Is your aunt adopting you? Is the person being adopted an adult or a minor? I would suggestion you talk to an immigration lawyer on this issue.
Dear Sandy, I lived in Mexico for 5 years and have become very close to a young lady in her 30s who was literally thrown away by her mother when a baby, in Columbia, because she was born with a deformed hand/ arm. She now lives in Mexico and is married to a Mexican citizen. Could I legally adopt her? She is a masseuse and her husband does mechanic and body work on cars. Also, could I bring them legally to the US. I am 71, and at some point in the future, will need some help. Thanks in a advance for your information. If there is a cost involved, please include that, too. Thanks, Dana Boyd
Hello Dana, We could prepare the adoption documents for you, however this has no bearing on immigration status. We do not assist with that process.
Hello Sandy. I am a 54 year old U.S. citizen and for a few years I have sponsored a young Colombian adult born with cleft lip and palate. His father died when he was an infant and his mother has 7 other children and didn’t care for him properly. I have been to Colombia several times and I was able to get him a B1/B2 visa to come to Illinois to get a major surgery. He is now back in Colombia, but the visa is good for 10 years for visits and medical purposes only. He is 23 years old. I completely understand that I cannot sponsor him under any type of immigrant visa – I am not asking about immigration. I will probably move to Colombia when I retire from work. I am only interested in adopting him. He calls me dad and I call him my son. I want to codify this relationship. Also there is no common law in the Colombian legal system and inheritance goes to the legal children of the deceased. So I will also adopt him in Colombia, if they allow it. But my assets are in the USA, so I want my own country to also recognize him as my son. Any advice? Thanks
The adult adoption process requires both parties to appear in person.I know some courts do request a copy of a some type of valid ID and a copy of the adoptee’s birth certificate.
Hello Sandy…path to citizenship and immigration aside. I have a friend that is looking into adopting a 19 year old from India so that the student can attend their college in the U.S. for little to no cost. The student could then come here on a visa to get a better education. What are your thoughts on this? And how complex is the process?
Thank you for your all your responses. Amazing.
I am not sure that would work. I would suggest talking to an attorney first to get some direction and if you learn that an adult adoption would be appropriate, contact us for assistance with the paperwork.
If u have a permit to work in the USA can I still b adopted ?
Not every state in the US has adult adoption. Where do you live? You might want to ask an attorney first to make sure this is an option for you.
Hi Sandy, I was adopted by my uncle before I turned to 16 and after like 2 or 3 years, my uncle’s family migrate to US and I had to stay in my home country cos of the studies. Now Im like 23 years old and my uncle want me to migrate to where they are. So my question is is that possible for me to migrate US as a green card holder? Thank you
Hi Tara – I do not know if it is possible. I would have your uncle contact an immigration attorney in the US.
Hi Sandy, My daughter is 17 yrs 9 mths old. She will be completing 18 yrs on 30th May. Can she be adopted by my Brother-in-law who has Citizenship of US. By getting adopted, will she be US Citizen too ?
If so is this time sufficient for her to get adopted ?
Hi Leela: I would contact an international adoption lawyer with regards to this matter.
HI , I was brought here in a airplane when I was just a few months old – I was a baby and I was brought here by my aunt’s husband. He went for a trip to Mexico and my mom’s sister told him to take me with him and to tell my aunt to take care of me since she couldn’t raise me. My uncle/ dad and mom/aunt have been taking care of me ever since in the U.S. I am 17 years old but would want to know if there is any way they could still adopt me since back then they really didn’t get a chance to legally adopt me. I’m scared it won’t be possible to do that process since I’m 17 now but i really would want to get adopted if I can so I can get a social security number since I have a heart problem which I am getting treated here for. I’m scared that once I’m over 18 I won’t have medical and the costs for my heart problem would be a lot plus I would want to travel and at least get a visa or green card in order to travel to Mexico and visit my real parents. Do you have any suggestions? Do you think I will be able to do this process?
I would speak to an immigration attorney regarding this issue. Unfortunately Adult adoption has absolutely nothing to do with immigration.
Hi. I have a nephew i love and want to adopt. His father was an American but he forfeited his American citizenship when he was 18. Didn’t want to be drafted… My nephew would have been an American… His father also abandoned his first family and my nephew is alone. I want to adopt him, though he is over 30…I am getting old, and just had a stroke… I have no kids. My nephew is willing to care for me . I know adoption means nothing for the immigration process of an adult adopteee… Do you know if there is a way to bring him over to live with me? Can I hire him as my caregiver?
Hi Carol – I would suggest you talk to an immigration attorney with regards to the possible options to get your nephew here to United States.
Am 21yr old Cameroonian and my godfather is a US citizen he wants me to come over and live with him for some time(couple of years so I can work) ,what’s the easiest way for me to get a Visa to the US
I would speak to an immigration attorney regarding this matter.
Hi Sandy..I adopted a son in Pakistan about 6 years ago.i use to go to Pakistan to see him every few years but now Pakistan have security issue and I have some health issue which won’t allow me to travel I Wana bring my adopted son to America he is 25 years old there is any chance to bring him here so he can live with me ?
It is my understanding that the adoption process does not circumvent the standard immigration process. I would suggest you talk with an immigration attorney to get more details on what your options are.
we adopted a 10 year old child from Uganda in 2016. When we were there we found out she had a 16 year old sister. In Aug 2017 we brought the sister over on a F- 1 Student Visa. We are in the process of adopting her. (she just turned 18)
Will any consideration be given to her obtaining a green card due to the fact we already adopted her younger sister who is now a US citizen?
Hi Lisa – not sure sisterhood will impact the immigration process for a green card. You may want to consult with an immigration attorney for legal advice!
Hi Sandy,
We have recently found my adopted children’s older brother. He is currently 19. He has spent several weeks with us and we would like to do anything in our power to adopt him as he has no family in Latvia. Is there a way to get him here legally and obtain a green card after two years? Because he is biologically related to American citizens I am hoping this will help. Thank you so kindly.
As the article states, adoption of an adult and the US immigration process have no correlation to each other. You may want to speak to an immigration attorney regarding getting this person to the US legally and obtaining a green card.
My husband and I would like to adopt our adult son who is a PRA.
He came to live with us in 1991 through the Amerasian Act. We are thinking about avoiding inheritance issues in the future.
Is it possible to adopt an adult permanent resident alien?
I an a little confused because you refer to adopting your own adult son which does not make sense. Is he legally your son? If so, why would you need to adopt him? Please contact our office at 800-747-2780 for further help.
Hello Sandy, I am in desperate need of your advise. I am was adopted by my aunt in Canada who has passed. Conditions were terrible. I moved to the states to live with my biological mother. Lived with her for a while then moved back to Canada. My aunt who adopted me has since passed. Ive been trying to find information on how my biological mother may adopt me (I’m 39 years old). Is this possible. I would also like to state that I am a Canadian Citizen who has overstayed my welcome. My mother is a permanent resident of the United States.
Second part to this question, if adoption is possible, would she be able to sponsor me to adjust my status.
Unfortunately the adult adoption process does not circumvent the normal immigration process. Were you not born in the US?
Hi my name is Esteban and im from the US, you see when i was born my mom put my real dad’s brother name as my dad, so im going to be 21 next year and i was wondering if my real dad(which he is married to my mom and always lived together) can adopt me so i can gave him any status of citizen or green card
As far as I am aware, adult adoption has no associative benefits to immigration. You may want to speak with an attorney .
Hello Sandy, Can I adopt my 17 year old nephew from Venezuela? and what do I need to do to make it as soon as it’s possible
This would not be considered an adult adoption. Suggest you speak with an attorney.
So can he obtain a greencard if I bring him with me before he turns 18?
I do not know. I would suggest talking to an immigration attorney.
Hi Sandy
With the understanding it wouldn’t affect immigration status, could the adoption of a 19-year old German girl allow her to be covered under our family health insurance until age 26 whilebik college in the US?
I cannot answer that question. You may want to ask your insurance carrier.
Hii i am from india my best friend have a citizenship in usa so he or his family is legally adopt me there then i will living there as a usa citizen after adoption im 20 years old this could be possible
As the article indicates, if a U.S. citizen adopts a foreign adult, that may entitle the adoptee to inheritance rights. U.S. immigration laws, however, do not extend special immigration or citizenship benefits to that person based on the adoption. You would have to proceed through standard immigration procedures. You may want to contact an immigration attorney for advice on this.
I have a friend who is a adult US citizen and has an older sister in another country who is like a mother to him cos their mother is late. Can she adopt him as a son and can he subsequently file for her to immigrate as an adoptive parent?
Adult adoption has no affect on the US immigration process.
Hi Sandy , I am a citizen I adopted 2kids 12 month ago first one 12year old second one 15 year old but they came to the United States in a different name also they have no passport there passport was take in by the immigration . Can I steel apply for them
You probably should speak to an immigration attorney.
Hi Sandy!
What if an illegal immigrant living in the US wants to adopt a US born adult? I cannot seem to find much information about that. Would deportation become involved?
I am not sure that would be possible.
Hi Sandy, if I were to adopt an illegal immigrant living in U.S. who has a legal child age 7 born here, and the Mother were to be deported, would I have a right to keep the child here rather than CPS taking charge of her?
Hi Sara – looks like you. need “legal advice” which you would have to get from a lawyer.
Hi there good day!.. i would like to know if a 22 year old man that get married and divorce, would it be possible for him to be adopt by a U.S.citizen
I believe so but please make sure you read the article as it does not affect the immigration process. Please talk to a lawyer if you need legal advice.
I just turned 18 and I’ve lived with my uncle since I was a freshman. I entered the U.S. with a tourist visa and if he were to adopt me, would I have the chance to obtain a green card?
As the blog article indicates, the adult adoption process in California does not benefit in any way, circumvent or benefit the normal immigration process one would have to go through.
hi sandy.
Im Akhil, 26years, indian student living with F1 visa in california. US citizen wants to adopt me they are 60+ and have no kids yet, so whats the procedure and will it works ??
They probably can file an adult adoption in California if they live here but it will not affect the normal immigration process as the article states not will it give you any special immigration benefits.
Thank you Sandy,
I understand what you wrote me.
So he would have to go through immigration and naturalization processes.
Is this right? This is the way I believe I read on another site. So I told him all legal procedures have to be addressed. Correct.
Thank you again Christine
That is my understand. He should speak with an immigration attorney once he is here.
Hello.
I’m the God Mother of a 32 yr old young man from INDIA. If he comes to the United States for awhile on a visa is it possible to adopt him. We are very close and his family in India are very happy that we want to adopt him. We have no heirs so he would become the only heir .
We are born in the USA as were our great grandparents. He has always been like a son to us. Thank you, Christine
Hi Christine – you can certainly adopt this young man however it is my understanding adult adoption will not modify any immigration process or give them any special standing in the US for a green card or work visa or other process. Keep this in mind when deciding to proceed.
Hi i am Indian age 26 I just got adopted in US my question is what are my legal rights am i authorise to work there..? if not then what should i do to get work visa .. please give me some clearity
Unfortunately Adult adoption does not impact immigration if work visa eligibility. I would suggest you talk to an attorney.
Hi Sandy — I am an adult US citizen. My friend’s mother who is living in India wants to adopt me, what process would she and I need to take? My friend’s mother is not looking to apply for admission to the US, she simply want to make the adoption legal.
Can you recommend an immigration firm?
Thanks.
Ken
Hi Ken: I am not sure why you would be asking about an immigration firm if this is merely an adult adoption. The two processes are not related whatsoever.
Hi! I would like to know if I could be adopted? For a random family in the US?
I’m 17 and I have no family because my country is at war, since I lost my family behind Somalia I flee in Sweden. Unfortunately the Swedish athorities cannot do that much so I would like still live my dream and live in the US. So if is there anything u could do for or suggest anything that could be good. Thanks
As the article explains, adult adoption does not change the normal immigration process.
Hi Sandy, I have a friend who is on H1B visa in the US and is trying to get out of an abusive marriage. Will adult adoption help her to stay in the US (get a green card or something)? The divorce process in India takes around 20-25 years if one spouse is not consenting to the divorce and also her life would be in danger if she files for it in India. Her husband is in India.
As the article specifically indicates, adult adoption has no effect on a person immigrating. I would recommend you have your friend speak with an immigration lawyer to see what other options she may have. She certainly can still be adopted by an adult in the United States, however it will not help her in anyway regarding her immigration.
I’m a dual citizen (US-Filipino) can i file a petition to sponsor my adopted child who is 28 yrs old now to immigrate to US. The adoption was filed when she was already 24 yrs old and she is married. But she had lived with me ever since she was a baby. I’m 83 yrs old now and maintaining my residency here in Philippines. The adoption was granted.
Unfortunately our office cannot offer you legal advice regarding immigration issues. We are not attorneys. You would need to speak to an immigration attorney.
I’m 25 but my uncle would like to adopt me. He lives in California. So after adopting can I work in US?
If you are allowed to work in the US before the adoption, nothing would change. Adult adoption is not, however, a stepping stone towards immigration. Please speak with an immigration attorney.
If foreign adult is adopted by US citizen. Will adoption change there visa status. Means is he eligible to work in US. Not green card only tourist to working visa.
As mentioned in the article, adult adoption does not in any way affect immigration or green card status.
Can a 23 old adult be adopted? I’m his godmother 67 year old and a citizen?
The only requirement is that there be a 10 year age difference. Please contact us at 800-747-2780 if you would like assistance in preparing and filing an adult adoption proceeding. Keep in mind that an adult adoption proceeding has no affect on immigration procedures.
please Madam Sarah,I am a Ghanaian boy.14years of age and i want to be adopted in the USA by a family
We are not an adoption agency nor do we provide those types of services.
Hello, my sister passed away in Venezuela. My nephew is left homeless. He is an adult Venezuelan. Im a US citizen. He is here in the US with me now. How can we keep him in the US. He has no home or place to live in Venezuela.
I would check with an immigration attorney to get some legal advice to see what options may he available under this situation.
Hello hi im from India and i have a best friend in USA where i have met him through facebook…im just 18 years old and i would like to know would it be possible if he adopts me so i can be qualified with a American greencard? Thankyou.
As the article indicates, if a U.S. citizen adopts a foreign adult, that may entitle the adoptee to inheritance rights. U.S. immigration laws, however, do not extend special immigration benefits to that person based on the adoption. You would have to proceed through standard immigration procedures. You may want to contact an immigration attorney for advice on this.
Dear sandy can a citizen adopt a mexican adult?if yes whats the process and how long it takes for her to get a creen card
As far as I am aware that is possible; however you need to keep in mind as the article indicates that adult adoption does NOT give an alien entry to the US outside the standard immigration process that would apply to all immigrants…meaning it does not give someone special privileges to obtain a green card that would be different than if they were not adopted.
How I can adopt my disable sister live in Argentina she is death and she have mental problems
1) Both parties must personally appear in court. 2) adoption does to affect ability or right to immigrate to US.
Hi, can I adopt my cousin who came here illegally and she is 18 years old?.Im us citizen .
You may be able to adopt them but it will not make them a citizen or change their illegal status in the United States. I would speak to an attorney first.
Dear Sandra,
Please what is the process and the criterials for a U.S citizen to adopt a a Nigerian adult?
Filing an adult adoption does not affect the immigration process at all.