Ready to adopt a child? Congratulations on your decision! Before you proceed further, here are some things and steps you need to know that is required by the adoption law in Singapore.Being able to be a parent with their own bloodline is a gift, but not everyone is blessed with this gift. Children are also a blessing for every parent, but sadly not all are welcomed with open arms.
To adopt a child in Singapore, parents must be meet the requirements required by the Singaporean adoption law.
What is Adoption?
Adoption is a process where parents over a child are granted to the applicants. Once the process is complete, the adopters become the parents and take on all parental duties and rights.
Who can I Adopt?
- Children who are under the age of
- Not married
- Foreign children, (but under different laws, depending on their nationality)
- A male cannot adopt a female child unless there are special circumstances
The requirements by the Singapore Adoption of Children Act (ACA)
- You need to be above the age of 25 to be able to adopt a child
- You need to be at least 21 years older than the child (if the child is related by blood then there may be an exception)
- The adopter must not be 50 years older than the child
- Get approval by your spouse if you are married
However, the adoption of a child by a homosexual couple is not permitted under the ACA.
Other requirements
- Consent: Consent must be given by every person before an adoption order can be made.
- The welfare of the child: Before making an adoption order, the court must be satisfied that the order has been made. Wishes of a child can be taken into consideration as well, depending on their age or his or her level of understanding.
- Exchange of money: The applicant must not receive or agree to receive payment or award for adopting the child.
How long does the process take?
According to the Ministry for Social and Family Development (MSF), the process takes between 5 to 7 months from application to the approval made from the court.
This may take a longer time if you’re adopting a foreign child as it involves a home study report and application for a Dependent’s Pass.
Adoption fees?
As mentioned above, it’s illegal to pay the birth parents for giving up their child for adoption. If a couple goes through an agent to adopt a child, they can incur fees of between $25,000 to $35,000.
Now that you know the requirements made by the Singaporean adoption law, you can now proceed to your next big step on adopting a child! Good luck on this beautiful journey you’re going to make parents!
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