How do I adopt a child through CARA in Bhopal for inter-country adoption?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To adopt a child through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) in Bhopal for inter-country adoption, you need to follow a structured process outlined by CARA and governed by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Adoption Regulations, 2017.

Here are the steps and requirements to facilitate an inter-country adoption:

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Adoptive parents must be at least 25 years old and must be at least 21 years older than the child they intend to adopt.
  • Couples must be married for at least two years; single individuals can also adopt.
  • Both parents should be in good physical and mental health, and there should be no severe medical issues.
• Obtain a Home Study Report:
  • Engage a licensed adoption agency recognized by CARA to conduct a home study.
  • The report will assess the suitability of the adoptive parents, including their financial stability, emotional readiness, and home environment.
• Registration with CARA:
  • Apply online through the CARA website to register as prospective adoptive parents (PAPs).
  • Submit necessary documents, including identity proof, financial statements, and the home study report.
• Referral of Child:
  • Once registered, wait for CARA to match you with a child eligible for inter-country adoption.
  • After the referral, you will receive the child’s background information, and you can decide to accept or refuse the proposal.
• Legal Process:
  • File a petition in the competent court for adoption in India under the relevant provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
  • After obtaining the adoption order, apply for the child’s passport and visa for travel to the adoptive parent's country.
• Post-Adoption Procedures:
  • Comply with the post-adoption follow-up as required by CARA and the laws of the adoptive country.
  • File reports with CARA about the child's adjustment and well-being periodically.

For more detailed information, you may refer to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations, 2017, which provide comprehensive guidelines for adoption in India.