Hague Adoption Convention Application: International Adoption in The Hague
The Hague Adoption Convention (1993) regulates intercountry adoptions between contracting states. In The Hague, this convention provides safeguards for the child and adoptive parents with a standardized procedure. The District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60, handles the adoption decree.
Legal Basis
The application in the Netherlands, including The Hague, is governed by:
- Act on the Admission of Foreign Children for Adoption (Wobka)
- Book 1 of the Dutch Civil Code (articles 1:227-1:230)
- Hague Adoption Convention 1993
Core Principles
1. Subsidiarity Principle
Intercountry adoption only if domestic solutions in the country of origin fail.
2. Central Authorities
In the Netherlands: Central Authority for International Child Matters (CA-IKA). For advice in The Hague: Juridisch Loket The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10.
3. Automatic Recognition
Convention adoptions are directly recognized in all contracting states.
Procedure Overview
| Phase | Steps | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Parent course and screening | 6-12 months |
| 2. Principle Consent | Application to CA-IKA | 3-6 months |
| 3. Matching | Matching child-parents | 6-24 months |
| 4. Adoption | District Court of The Hague decree | 1-6 months |
Conditions for Adoptive Parents
- At least 18 years older than the child
- Psychological and medical examination
- Principle consent from CA-IKA
- Mandatory preparation course
Cost Indication
- Preparation course: €1,500 - €2,500
- Mediation: €10,000 - €20,000
- Country of origin costs: €5,000 - €15,000
- Total: €20,000 - €45,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are parties?
Over 100 countries, including Colombia, Thailand, China, India, South Africa. Check the Hague Conference website for the current list.
How long does it take?
Average 2-4 years, varies by country and child availability.
Possible for singles?
Yes, according to Dutch criteria. Many countries of origin prefer couples.
Automatic recognition?
Yes, in all contracting states without additional steps.
Conclusion
The Hague Adoption Convention ensures a safe, transparent process with automatic recognition in The Hague. Contact the District Court of The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60) or Juridisch Loket (Lutherse Burgwal 10) for guidance.
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