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

Detailed Legal Analysis

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

The following steps outline the procedure for inter-country adoption through CARA:

• Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria as outlined in the Adoption Regulations, 2017. You must be:
  • At least 25 years old.
  • A married couple, or a single person (with certain restrictions).
  • Financially capable of providing for the child.
  • In good mental and physical health.
• Registration: Register with CARA as prospective adoptive parents (PAPs).
  • Complete the online registration on the CARA website.
  • Submit required documents, including identity proof, address proof, marriage certificate (if applicable), and medical certificates.
• Home Study: After registration, a home study will be conducted by a recognized adoption agency.
  • The agency assesses your suitability to adopt based on various factors, including family background, parenting skills, and lifestyle.
  • A detailed home study report will be prepared and submitted to CARA.
• Approval: Upon successful completion of the home study, CARA will issue a registration certificate, allowing you to proceed with the adoption process.
• Referral: CARA will provide you with a referral of a child available for inter-country adoption.
  • You will receive a medical and background report of the child.
  • You can accept or decline the referral based on your assessment.
• Legal Procedures: Once you accept the referral, legal procedures must be followed in the child's home country.
  • Obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from CARA.
  • File an application for adoption in the relevant court in the child's home country.
• Post-Adoption: After the adoption is finalized, ensure to comply with post-adoption requirements, including follow-up reports to CARA.

It is essential to maintain adherence to the guidelines set forth under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations, 2017, throughout the adoption process to ensure a successful inter-country adoption.