Who are the children awaiting adoption in Colombia?

Children waiting for adoption in Colombia range in age from 2 months to 16 years old and reside in public or private care facilities known as IAPAS throughout the country. They come from diverse backgrounds, including Hispanic, African, Indian, or mixed-race heritage. Many of these children face challenges such as special medical needs—commonly including Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, and developmental delays—or are part of older or sibling groups. While some younger children with minor medical needs are also eligible for adoption, priority for these cases is typically given to families in the Colombia Heritage program. There are also older, healthy sibling groups available for adoption. Due to experiences of trauma and loss, these children are in urgent need of a stable, loving, and permanent family to provide the care and support they deserve.

Why is there a need to adopt children with special needs or from sibling groups?

These children have endured trauma and loss, making their need for a loving, permanent family urgent. Adopting these children provides them with the care and support they desperately need.

What is the process to adopt a child from Colombia?

The process involves contacting an adoption specialist, completing a home study, submitting required documents, and paying application fees. Once matched, you will travel to Colombia to complete the adoption.

How long does the adoption process take?

The adoption process timeline varies. The initial home study and Dossier phase typically takes 4-6 months. There is then a waiting period to be matched with a child, which can span from months to years, depending on the type of child that you hope to match with. The final step is travel, which is typically 3-6 weeks in duration, but can be longer.

Who is eligible to adopt from Colombia?

Married couples (legally married for at least two years, together for three years), single parents, and same-sex married couples of any gender (for children with special needs) are eligible. Applicants must be at least 25 years old and no more than 45 years older than the child. Learn more about adoption criteria.

Are there specific health requirements for adoptive parents?

Yes, adoptive parents must be mentally and physically fit to parent. Applicants who have had cancer must be at least 5 years in remission. Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, certain types of cancer, and HIV/AIDS, may not be approved.

What if a hopeful parent has had past divorces?

Past divorces will be considered as part of the eligibility criteria. Applicants with more than 3 divorces will not be considered. The stability of the current family environment and relationship is considered.

Are there cultural sensitivity requirements for adoptive parents?

Yes, adoptive parents should be open to and respectful of the child’s cultural background and heritage. This is crucial for the child’s adjustment and integration into the family.

Is there any training required for adopting from Colombia?

All hopeful adoptive parents pursuing adoption in Colombia are required to complete pre-adoptive training assigned by Gladney.

What are post-adoption reports, and why are they important?

Post-adoption reports are updates completed by your home study social worker to ensure the child is thriving. These reports include photos, details about the child’s health and well-being, and information on how the family is adjusting. They are essential for maintaining compliance with agency and country requirements.

What training is required to adopt from Colombia?

At Gladney, training is a key part of preparing families for a successful adoption. All prospective parents complete pre-adoptive training that covers the adoption process, common needs of children, and practical parenting tools. You’ll also participate in Gladney’s Pathways training — our in-person, trauma-informed program held at the Fort Worth campus — which offers deeper guidance and preparation.

These trainings, as well as child specific training, ensure you are well-equipped, supported, and ready to provide a safe, nurturing home for the child you will welcome.

When are post-adoption reports due?

For adoptions from Colombia, reports should be submitted to Gladney at 1 month, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months after adoption. Additional reports are needed at 30 months and 36 months for children 8 years or older or part of a sibling group.

What is the travel process for adopting from Colombia?

Adoptive parents travel to Colombia after completing the Hague process and receiving Article 5 and permission from ICBF. The stay in Colombia typically lasts between 22 to 28 days, but it can extend to 6 to 8 weeks depending on the administrative process. Both parents must travel to Colombia, though one parent may leave after the court date (approximately 3 weeks into the process), if necessary.

Where do families stay during their time in Colombia?

Families can stay in hotels or apartments arranged with the help of the agency and the support team in Colombia. Gladney works with an experienced legal representative in Colombia to arrange travel and support for families.

Who can I contact for more information about adopting from Colombia?

For personalized guidance, fill out the form below.