Profile of Children Available for Adoption
Children eligible for adoption range in age from 0 to 18 years. For international adoption, it is primarily possible to adopt children who are over 24 months old. The register includes both healthy children and those with disabilities, with the majority coming from minority communities, such as the Roma and Turks, or having unclear origins.
What is the Waiting Period?
The waiting period varies depending on the number of children registered during the current year, as well as the desired characteristics of the children by prospective adopters.
Currently, the waiting period for a healthy child aged to 5 years is between 6 years, depending on additional factors such as gender, minor health issues, and delays in neuro-psychological development.
- The procedure for a child on the special measures list takes between 12 monthsand more
Who Has the Right to Adopt Children from Bulgaria?
According to Bulgarian law:
- Prospective adopters must receive approval for adoption.
- Individuals in partnership, including spouses or single adopters, can adopt children from Bulgaria. In the case of a man and woman living together, only one can adopt.
- The minimum age for a prospective adopter is 18years, and the legislation does not set a maximum age limit.
- The age difference between the adopter and the adopted child must be at least 15years, but no more than 50 years older than the adoptee.
- Families composed solely of individuals of the same sex do not have the right to adopt.
Who Determines the Age of the Child That Can Be Adopted?
The age of the child being adopted is determined in the adoption approval issued by the relevant central authority of the country where the prospective adopter has established residence.
Is It Possible to Adopt Two Children at Once?
Yes, if this is clearly stated in the adoption approval.
Can I Specify the Gender of the Child?
In the application submitted to the Ministry of Justice, the prospective adopter has the option to indicate their preferences regarding the child’s gender.
Signing a Contract with “St. Constantine and Elena”?
The mediation contract in the process of international adoption is signed with the prospective adopter. You can contact us and provide a copy of your identification documents, as well as the address where you wish to receive the contract.
What Follows After Registration in the Register?
Prospective adopters registered in the system must exhibit calmness and patience throughout the lengthy process. It is important to inform us of significant circumstances that may impact the procedure.
How is the Referral Issued?
The Ministry of Justice issues a referral after the Council for International Adoption at the Ministry of Justice (CIA) after review and approval the prospective adopter’s application. The ministry aims to find suitable parents for the child, guided by the child’s interests and the adopters’ ability to provide physical, mental, and social well-being. The issuance of a referral depends on the characteristics of the child and follows the order of signing in the register of prospective adopters. Accredited organizations do not have quotas for obtaining approval; the process proceeds in the order of signing.
Is There a Deadline for Receiving a Referral?
According to Bulgarian legislation, there is no such deadline. The central authority cannot establish a specific time frame, and “St. Constantine and Elena” acts solely as a mediator. The time to receive a referral depends on the age, health status, and somewhat on the gender of the child. Younger and healthier children generally have a longer waiting period.
What Medical Information Do Adopters Receive After the Referral?
The Ministry of Justice sends “St. Constantine and Elena” a photo of the child and a report containing information about the child’s health and social status. Specialists from “St. Constantine and Elena” can visit the child if the adopters make such a request.
What Additional Expenses May Arise in Bulgaria, Aside from Those Specified in the Contract with “St. Constantine and Elena”?
Adopters have options for choosing transportation, accommodation, and dining establishments during their stay in Bulgaria. “St. Constantine and Elena” assists with these choices by providing up-to-date information and help with reservations. In other cases, no additional expenses are anticipated.
Who is Responsible for Monitoring After Adoption and How Many Reports Must the Ministry of Justice Provide?
The Ministry of Justice requires the preparation of 6 post-adoption monitoring reports, which must be submitted every 6 months for a duration of 3 years. The reports are prepared by the central authority or by a licensed agency in the area of the family’s permanent address.
It is Recommended that Contact Continues for 5 Days
Contact with the child is mandatory for 5 days. If the adopter cannot stay for 5 days due to illness, urgent commitments, or other issues, they must provide a notarized declaration explaining the reasons for reducing the contact days or for being unable to fulfill them. Contact starts and ends on a working day but may also include non-working days.
From What Date Does the 2-Month Period for the 5-Day Contact with the Child Begin?
The period begins from the date on which “St. Constantine and Elena” received the referral documents from the Ministry of Justice.