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1.   HOME  STUDY

Contact CHI for our Associate Agency in your area.

What is a Home Study ?
A home study is merely a report required by adoption officials affirming that you are suitable to be a parent(s) of a child and can provide the stability and home environment that a child needs. It consists of at least 2 interviews and a home visit. You will likely be asked to write a brief autobiography and to submit the following photocopies (not originals):

  1. Write a brief 2 page autobiography about yourself.  See CHI Family NetŪ for outline.
  2. Photocopies of the following may be needed during the home study.
    1. Photocopies of Birth Certificates for each family member.
    2. Photocopy of Marriage Certificate.
    3. Photocopy of letter from local police stating "no criminal record".
    4. Photocopy of financial statement.
    5. Photocopy of medical from your Doctor on his/her letterhead stating positive condition of physical/mental health.
    6. Reference letters
    7. Post-Placement agreement must be in the home study.

2.   BCIS  ( Immigration and Naturalization Service)

Because you are adopting from abroad, you need to get their approval for a visa for the child.
  1. If you do not have the forms for an adoption packet application you may either:
    1. Call the INS for the forms. 1-800-870-FORMS
    2. Download from the internet by clicking : http://www.ins.usdoj.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/index.htm
    3. Call CHI and request the form
  2. Fill out the I-600-A only.
  3. Send photocopy of Birth certificates, or proof of citizenship.
  4. Send photocopy of divorce decree if applicable.
  5. Send photocopy of marriage certificate.
  6. Favorably recommended home study. 
    $460.00 plus $50 per person for finger prints  www.ins.gov

3.  DOSSIER

All of the documents below must be originals. This is your dossier Check-List.  Send application to Children's Hope now and begin to collect all documents. Our Guatemala Adoption Guide will be sent to you and case workers will give you clear direction for the following:

  1. Collect these documents :
    1. Letter of Introduction
    2. Home Study
    3. Birth Certificates
    4. Marriage Certificate
    5. Divorce Decree(s) (if applicable)
    6. Medical Letters
    7. Income Verifications
    8. Income Tax Report
    9. State police report
    10. Declaration of Identity/Name
    11. Three Letters of Reference
    12. Two Sworn Testimonial Statements/Deposition of Witnesses
    13. Power of Attorney for Attorney
    14. Life/Medical Insurance Letters
    15. Power of Attorney for CHI representative.
  2. Get them notarized.
  3. Get them state certified
  4. Send them to Children's Hope

Download  Adoption Guide and Guatemala Profile