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

Detailed Legal Analysis

To adopt a child through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) in Mysore for inter-country adoption, you must follow a structured process mandated by Indian law.

The primary framework for inter-country adoption in India is governed by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption, to which India is a signatory.

Here are the steps and requirements involved in the inter-country adoption process through CARA:

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Adoptive parents must be at least 25 years old and not more than 55 years old.
  • Couples should have at least two years of marriage, while single individuals can also adopt, provided they meet the age requirement.
• Registration with CARA:
  • Visit the CARA website and fill out the online application form for registration.
  • Submit necessary documents such as identity proof, address proof, marriage certificate (if applicable), income proof, and health certificates.
• Home Study Assessment:
  • CARA will assign a recognized adoption agency to conduct a home study of the prospective adoptive parents.
  • The home study will evaluate the suitability of the parents to adopt, including psychological assessments.
• Referral of a Child:
  • Once the home study is approved, parents will receive a referral of a child available for adoption.
  • Parents will have a limited time to accept or decline the referral.
• Legal Procedures:
  • Upon acceptance, the agency will assist in filing necessary legal documents for adoption in the appropriate court.
  • Adoption orders are issued under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• Post-Adoption Support:
  • Parents must comply with post-adoption requirements, including submitting progress reports to CARA for a specified period.

Following these steps will ensure that you comply with both Indian laws and international standards for inter-country adoption. It is advisable to consult with legal professionals or adoption agencies for personalized guidance throughout the process.