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State Department proposes new rule impacting intercountry adoption

  1. Original Date Announced

    November 20, 2020

    The State Department issued a notice of proposed rulemaking that amends accreditation and approval standards for intercountry adoption. It includes a new subpart on adoption by relatives; amendments relating to accrediting entities and the accreditation process, particularly in cases of intercountry adoptions by relatives; and revisions relating to funding and the prevention of child buying, among other changes. The proposed regulation reduces the obligations of primary providers and adoption service providers in cases of adoption by relatives. [ID# 1170]

    Intercountry Adoptions: Regulatory Changes to Accreditation and Approval Regulations in Intercountry Adoption
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  3. Biden Administration Action: Modified

    January 8, 2025

    Intercountry Adoption: Regulatory Changes to Accreditation and Approval Regulations in Intercountry Adoption

    On January 8, 2025, a final rule by the Department of State amending the requirements for accreditation and approval to provide adoption services in intercountry adoption cases became effective. The final rule incorporates substantive revisions to the proposed rule that had been suggested by stakeholders and commenters. It also omits three proposed sections.

    This final rule was announced on July 12, 2024.

    View Document

Current Status

Partially in effect

Most Recent Action

January 8, 2025 Action: Modified Intercountry Adoption: Regulatory Changes to Accreditation and Approval Regulations in Intercountry Adoption
January 8, 2025
Acted on by Biden Administration

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Proposed
Trump Administration Action: Rule
Agencies Affected: Bureau of Consular Affairs

Pre Trump-Era Policies

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To provide information, corrections, or feedback, please email IPTP.feedback@gmail.com