Ghana is a multiethnic country rich in natural resources and is one of the most stable and democratic countries in West Africa. With nearly 35 million inhabitants, Ghana is the second-most populous country in West Africa. Although relatively small in area and population, Ghana is one of the leading countries of Africa, partly because of its considerable natural wealth and partly because it was the first black African country south of the Sahara to achieve independence from colonial rule. There are more than 150 orphanages in Ghana, caring for thousands of children.
Available Children
Children ages 2 to 15 years old are available. Children may have mild to moderate medical issues. Medical and developmental information is provided as well as photos and video. Sibling groups are also available.
Length of Process
Most families will need 5- 6 months to complete a home study, obtain US immigration approval and compile their adoption dossier. Once the dossier is submitted to the Ghanaian Central Authority, a child referral is expected within two to six months, depending on the child request. Within two months of preliminary acceptance of referral, the family will travel to meet the child, remain for a month-long mandatory bonding period, attend a court hearing and then go home. At least one parent must return to Ghana approximately six weeks later for approximately two weeks to complete the adoption, obtain the child’s immigrant visa and bring the child home.
Travel Requirements
If married, both parents must travel to Ghana to meet child, accept the referral, and for the mandatory one month bonding period. In some circumstances there may be some flexibility which would allow one parent to leave early, return for the court hearing and then go home to the US. One parent must travel back to Ghana about 6 weeks after court hearing to process child’s US immigrant visa and bring child home. Families will be assisted by our Foreign Service Provider during their trips. Internal travel logistics including hotels, domestic flights and ground transportation can be arranged by our office or on your own.
Eligibility Criteria
Adoptive parents must be at least 30 and the age difference between the younger parent and the child should be not more than 50 years. Couples must be married at least 2 years. Applicants should be of good moral standing, good health, and financially secure. Single women of Ghanaian heritage are also eligible to adopt.