Immigration Adoption Cases

Intercountry adoption is a complex and intricate process and prior to commencing this process, it is strongly advised you seek legal advice from solicitors who specialise in family and immigration law.

There are different ways a child could be adopted:

Adoptions in countries which are signatories to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption 1993 [the Hague Convention]

Adoptions in countries whose adoption procedures are recognised by the UK. A list of countries whose adoption procedures are accepted by the UK are set out in legislative orders;

Under the Immigration Rules, adoptive parents could de facto adopt a child. De facto adoption shall be regarded as having taken place if the adoptive parent(s) and the child have been living abroad together for a minimum period of 18 months, 12 months for which should immediately precede the application for entry clearance and they have assumed the role of the child’s parents, from the beginning of that 18 month period, so that there has been a genuine transfer of parental responsibility. The adoption should not be one of convenience arranged to facilitate admission to or remaining in the UK. If the child is adopted de facto, the adoptive parents would have to take further steps in the UK to have the adoption recognised in order to obtain parental rights.

Depending on the time and type of adoption a child may automatically become a British citizen, register as a British citizen or settle in the UK as a result of their adoption. Additionally, children could apply for entry clearance to the UK to be adopted in the UK.

Vestra Lawyers have experience in dealing with these cases and understand the emotional aspect of trying to bring over a child that desperately needs the love and attention that often can only be provided by the adoptive parents. To discuss your matter, contact us today by calling 0121 728 5999 / 0203 929 5999 to speak to a specialist or alternatively you can email us at info@vestralawyers.com.