China
China requires that at least one parent travels to China to complete the adoption. Some states require that both parents travel to complete an adoption abroad. Some states do not require both parents to travel, but if only one parent travels, extra paperwork is required. The child will enter the U.S. on an IR-4 visa instead of the usual IR-3. This makes re-adoption in the parent’s state of residence a requirement.
We feel that it is very important for both parents to travel. It will help you to gain a greater understanding of your child’s birthcountry and culture, which will serve to help your child understand and value his/her origins. It also serves the children better for attachment and bonding purposes.
Bethany families travel to China in groups, according to the time of referral. Families with children from the same orphanage and/or province will be grouped together. Traveling with a group can provide emotional support and reduce the costs for touring and hotels. Group travel is organized on your behalf.
It is necessary to have both a passport and China visa in order to travel to China. You must have a U.S. passport before your dossier is even sent to China. Once you receive the referral of a child, you may then apply for a China travel visa. We will send you the visa application forms and supporting documents at the time of referral.
Adoption travel is not a vacation. Travel within China may not be easy or relaxing. It may be extremely exhausting as you have to deal with jetlag and caring for a new child who may not adjust very easily.
For more information about Bethany's China program, please call 1.877.64.ADOPT, e-mail us at
bcsinternational@bethany.org, or fill out our
contact form.