Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have a lot of questions, and we’re here to help. Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions we get from families as they start the research phase of the adoption process.
What countries do you work with?
Currently, CAS is accredited with the Philippines for intercountry adoption and are prayerfully considering additional country programs. The Philippines is party to the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption. CAS has a rich history of working with the Central Authority, National Authority for Child Care (formerly ICAB) of the Philippines since 1974.
What is the cost to adopt?
The cost to adopt varies depending upon the program and all fees are reviewed before application. Fees are fully transparent between CAS services and international fees. Estimated fees are also reviewed such as travel expenses. Call 704-847-0038 for more detailed information.
Who are the children available for adoption?
The children available for adoption internationally have been cleared for adoption and have not been placed domestically in their country of origin. To be cleared for adoption, an extensive and ethical process is done to determine the suitability for adoption. Children come into care for many reasons and can have a wide range of ages and life experiences. Depending on the program a prospective adoptive family is interested in, the parameters of the demographics of available children can vary.
What is the travel time in-country?
Philippines: One trip - approximately 7 days
What is the average wait time for placement?
Wait times for placement will range based on the program a prospective adoptive family is interested in. The level of openness to a child/ren can have a significant impact on the waiting time as well as the family’s composition and ability. Overall average time frames we are seeing at this time is 1-4 years.
Do you work with families outside of the Carolinas?
Yes, unlike our domestic program that only works with families in NC and SC, our international program works with families across the United States.
Who can adopt internationally?
There are eligibility parameters that are often set by country and should be reviewed before completing an application. Our eligibility comparison chart is a tool to reference when considering intercountry adoption that gives more specific requirements such as age, length of marriage, children in home, etc. Other country-specific factors need to be considered and will be reviewed during the initial interest process.
What are the educational requirements?
Each prospective adoptive family will complete a minimum of 10 hours of Hague approved pre-adoption training for international adoption during the Home Study phase. Upon being matched with a child, a family will complete additional training to supplement their learning, as well as have one-on-one child-specific training. There will also be some additional post placement training to provide further resources and tools once a family is home.
Is the adoption finalized in country?
With adoptions from the Philippines, the children come home on guardianship. After successfully completing the required post-placement visits, the Philippines Central Authority will issue a Consent to Adopt. The child’s adoption is then finalized in the North Carolina courts and you will receive a North Carolina decree of adoption. It is highly encouraged that families obtain a Certificate of Citizenship upon the finalization of the adoption.