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Bethany is excited to begin a new program in Ethiopia, Africa. As a pioneer program, there are greater unknowns than with other Bethany adoption programs. Unexpected changes in timeframes and procedures are possible when we begin to work in a new country. In addition to the adoption program, Bethany is providing humanitarian aid for the children and families of Ethiopia.
Must work with BCS office
Advantages:
Age requirements for adoptive families are broad. Children available from infancy to 15 years. Only one trip required and stay in country approximately one week.
 Program Overview:
Referral time for infant to 2 yrs. may be 12-18 months, children over two may be referred within 6-12 months. Families may not specify gender. Once dossier is complete, Bethany will send to State Dept. and Ethiopian Embassy in D.C. for final legalization.
Location:
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Children Available:
Healthy, children with special needs, siblings, ranging in age from infancy to teens.
Children’s Situation:
Children generally healthy and live in orphanages. Children are often orphaned as a result of AIDS.
 Eligibility for Families:
| • | Married couples – married minimum of one year at the time the dossier is sent to Ethiopia. (Ethiopia prefers couples be married at least 5 years) |
| • | Ethiopia will not accept applicants who are homosexual |
| • | Single female applicants under 50 are accepted, but are required to submit a letter stating that she is heterosexual. |
| • | Preference is given to applicants between the ages of 25 and 45 for an infant. Older applicants may be considered for older children and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. |
| • | Income – Minimum household income must meet USCIS poverty guidelines. |
| • | must work with BCS branch office |
Waiting Time for Referral:
Infant to 2 yrs. 12-18 months
2 yrs. and up 6-12 months
Waiting Time after Referral:
2-4 months
 Travel:
Required; 6-8 days in country
Country fees:
$8,500, plus travel and accommodations
Adoption Finalized:
Ethiopia, child most likely comes home on an IR-4 visa
Dossier Required:
Yes
Post Adoption Reports:
Arrival, 3, 6, and 12 months after placement. After the first year, families must agree to submit informal reports annually until the child/ren reaches the age of fifteen. At least 6 photos are required with each report.
Ethiopia is a beautiful country situated in the Northeastern part of Africa near the Red Sea, which is also known as The Horn of Africa. It is a country rich in culture, history, and national pride. It is the oldest independent country in Africa, and its history dates back at least 2,000 years. This is a place of wonder, home of the famed Queen of Sheba, and the birthplace of coffee.
For more information on Bethany's Ethiopia program, please call 1.877.64.ADOPT, or email bcsinternational@bethany.org (please specify if you are interested in a certain country or program)
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