Hague Adoption Convention Application: International Adoption in Delft
The Hague Adoption Convention (1993) regulates intercountry adoptions between convention countries. In the Delft region, this convention provides safeguards for the child and adoptive parents through a standardized procedure, with local support at the Rechtbank Den Haag (district) and the Juridisch Loket Delft.
Legal Basis
The application in the Netherlands, including Delft, is governed by:
- Act on the Admission of Foreign Children for Adoption (Wobka)
- Book 1 CC (articles 1:227-1:230)
- Hague Adoption Convention 1993
Core Principles
1. Subsidiarity Principle
Intercountry adoption is only permitted if domestic solutions in the country of origin have failed.
2. Central Authorities
In the Netherlands: Central Authority International Child Matters (CA-IKA). For Delft residents: contact via local agencies or Juridisch Loket Delft.
3. Automatic Recognition
Convention adoptions are directly recognized in all convention countries, including the Netherlands.
Procedure Overview
| Phase | Steps | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Course and screening (possible locally in Delft) | 6-12 months |
| 2. Principle Consent | Application CA-IKA | 3-6 months |
| 3. Matching | Matching child-parents | 6-24 months |
| 4. Adoption | Ruling Rechtbank Den Haag | 1-6 months |
Conditions for Adoptive Parents
- At least 18 years older than the child
- Psychological and medical examination
- Principle consent CA-IKA
- Mandatory course (info via Juridisch Loket Delft)
Costs
- Preparation course: €1,500 - €2,500
- Mediation costs: €10,000 - €20,000
- Country of origin: €5,000 - €15,000
- Total: €20,000 - €45,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries fall under the convention?
More than 100 countries, such as Colombia, Thailand, China, India and South Africa. Check the Hague Conference website for the current list.
How long does the process take?
Average 2-4 years, varying by country of origin.
Can single persons adopt?
Yes, under Dutch conditions, but countries of origin often prefer couples.
Is the adoption automatically recognized?
Yes, in all convention countries without additional steps.
Conclusion
The Hague Adoption Convention ensures a safe, transparent process for intercountry adoption. In Delft: consult Rechtbank Den Haag and Juridisch Loket Delft for guidance.