Saturday, September 15, 2012

How much does it cost?

This is a question that comes up almost immediately after I tell someone that we are adopting.  Adoption is expenses, and it will vary from country to country.  Ethiopia is not as expensive as other countries, such as China.  There are different agencies that charge different fees, although you are adopting from the same country.  Thankfully, my sister Adrienne had already done thorough research about the adoption process over the last few years in preparation for her adoption process.  She was able to provide me with a lot of information as well as a contact for an agency that has a lot of connections and contacts in Ethiopia.  His fees were also cheaper than every other agency that I had considered!  He is well respected by all of the families that have used his service.

So how much does adoption cost?  Here is the breakdown.

Agency Fee-$4450
Home Study Fee-$2700
Home Study Post Placement Fee-$800
Foreign Processing Fee-$9000
US Immigrant Visa for Child-$380
Notary & Document Authentication-$200

Total-$17,530 (does not include travel accommodations to Ethiopia. Two trips required)

As you can see, adoption is expensive, but there are programs that offer grants if you qualify.  Although it is expensive, the ability and opportunity to give a child a better life is priceless! 

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