The Adoption Process
Adoption intakes are done Monday through Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm. During this time, you can call to receive general information on St. Mary's Services and learn about upcoming orientation meetings.
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The orientation meeting is designed for prospective adoptive couples new to adoption. At this meeting, you will learn St. Mary's approach to adoption which will include information on the countries, children available, the home study process for international adoption, licensing and adoption fees.
Should you elect to move forward with St. Mary's on an adoption plan, complete the preliminary application in its entirety and submit it with the preliminary application fee.
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Consultation and Formal Application
Upon receipt of the preliminary application and fee, St. Mary's International Program Supervisor will meet with you to help you select an inter country program. You will also receive a formal application packet. The formal application packet will provide St. Mary's with basic background information on you. This packet should be completed and submitted to St. Mary's Services along with the formal application fee.
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After reviewing your application, St. Mary's will assign a caseworker and the home study process will begin. This process includes a series of interviews, a home visit*, and educational opportunities. Your home study fee is due prior to the first interview with your caseworker.
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St. Mary's will assist you with preparing a dossier for the specific country from which you are adopting as well as filing an I600A - Orphan Visa. You will also gain valuable information on resources available to assess your child's social-medical records at the time of referral.
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Post placement visits will be scheduled according to the requirements of the child's country of origin. St. Mary's recommends that all families re-adopt in the State of Illinois, and file for a Social Security number.
*Illinois Department of Children and Family Services licensing procedure.
