What is a dossier?

Many countries open to international adoption require prospective parents to submit a dossier. A dossier is a compilation of paper work said to demonstrate some elements of your “fitness” to adopt. What is required in your dossier depends on the country you are adopting from.

You may be required to include some or all of these items in your dossier:

• Application/ Intention/Petition to adopt

• Medical Exams

• Financial Information

• Copies of Taxes

• Salary Information

• Photographs of the prospective parents

• Birth Certificates

• Marriage Certificates

• Divorce Decrees

• Letters from Employers

• Proof of Health Insurance

• Criminal Background Check

• Several Letters of Reference

• I-71H

• Proof of Permanent Address

• Home study

• Photos of House

• Finger Prints (Local and Federal)

• Fire/Safety Inspection
  

Your paper work may need to be notarized prior to submission. Your Notary Public may then need to be certified by your state's Secretary of State(Apostilled). In some cases your Notary may need to be certified by the Clerk of Courts in your county before being certified by your Secretary of State! Many people travel to their Secretary of State's office to ensure that the hard work they put in to compiling all of this paperwork is not lost or misplaced. There is often a 'per page' fee associated with certifying documents.

Note: Managing the forms, laws and timings required during your adoption can be daunting and can cause lengthy and costly delays. Please consult a reputable and experienced agency for accurate and up-to-date information.