International Adoption



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Bethany Christian Services has been serving families and children for over 60 years. To print out an overview of Bethany's compiled activities for the past year, click on Quick Facts. Our experienced staff is ready to guide adoptive parents through the steps required to adopt a child in numerous countries. With our years of experience, Bethany Christian Services is an agency you can trust and depend on.

Children adopted from other countries need to develop an understanding and acceptance of their rich cultural heritage. During the home assessment process, the adoptive parents learn ways to address this issue, how to deal with adjustment problems, and how to assimilate cultural awareness into a family's life. Once the child arrives, Bethany offers post-placement services. With our extensive experience, we can offer the necessary guidance and help to support the adoption. We conduct and complete the entire adoption process for families, from application, to family assessment, to dossier, to helping coordinate travel, to post placement supervision.

Our social workers are experts in the field of international adoption. They are well-versed in the requirements of the State of Illinois, the court system and Immigration Services, and they possess the necessary expertise that so often makes the difference in having a successful adoption.


We would be happy to meet you and answer any questions you may have as you consider international adoption as an option for adding to your family!

  • European Adoptions are available in Albania, Ukraine, and Lithuania
  • Latin America Adoptions are available in Colombia and Guatemala
  • Caribbean Adoptions are available in Haiti
  • Asian Adoptions are available in China, Philippines and Hong Kong

China is one of Bethany's most popular programs. Here are some reasons why:

China
More than a billion people live in China - making it the most populated county on earth. Many children are living in orphanages and may grow up without a permanent family. Our experienced staff are ready to guide adoptive parents through the steps required to complete an adoption through China.

Why China?
  • Children are referred through the China Center of Adoption Affairs in Beijing. CCAA has developed a well-organized and predictable system.
  • Both older couples and single mothers are eligible to adopt.
  • Bethany will expedite your paperwork to ensure the soonest possible placement.
  • Warm and nurturing care has been given to the children in the orphanages.
  • Parents who adopt children from China have the opportunity to learn and teach their children about an enduring, extraordinary culture.
  • Parents experience the beauty and splendor of China as they make the trip of a lifetime to meet and escort their child home.
  • A Chinese/English speaking guide will accompany you during your stay in China.

More program information is also provided on Bethany's international pages

You may also fill out our preliminary application online.

Download Adoptive Parents' Rights & Responsibilities