In 2016, MLJ Adoptions proudly assisted adoptive families to help bring children into their families from twenty-three different countries across the globe! In addition to our full country programs that we are currently inviting families into (Burkina Faso, Bulgaria, Haiti, Ukraine, and Nicaragua), MLJ Adoptions also continues to provide Primary Provider services in many other countries for families who have already adopted a child or have obtained guardianship. The Universal Accreditation Act of 2012 requires all U.S. adoptive parents adopting from a non-convention country to use the services of a Primary Provider. Because of this requirement, MLJ Adoptions expanded its adoption services to families who adopted in countries worldwide where there was a need.
Many countries have laws specific to adoption which must be observed, in addition to the immigration requirements set forth by the United States. As a Primary Provider, one task is to ensure that the adoption or guardianship followed the correct legal path ending in an adoption order or guardianship order that United States Citizenship and Immigration will recognize and approve so that the child can receive a visa to enter the United States.
Countries where MLJ continues to offer services in as a Primary Provider for adoptive families who have already obtained guardianship include Bangladesh. Bangladeshi law does not allow the adoption of a Bangladeshi child; therefore, an adoptive parent must obtain guardianship, then bring the child to the U.S. and adopt the child. Malaysia provides laws and requirements for both adoptions of Muslim and non-Muslim children, which must be strictly adhered to. MLJ has successfully assisted families in the past to complete adoptions from Malaysia, Nigeria, Sudan and Tanzania. If you have completed an adoption and need assistance in bringing your child to the U.S., we are happy to explain the services we can provide to you to help you navigate this process.
Services provided are generally dependent on the country you have adopted from, but are inclusive of, but not necessarily limited to a review of your legal documents, home study review, home study services for Indiana residents, adoption education, assistance with completion and filing of immigration forms and assistance with visa processing. Also important is ensuring that families are compliant with post placement reporting requirements and post placement services are available if they are needed. MLJ offers adoptive families a Welcome Home! Guidebook that helps them once they arrive home with their adopted child. It guides a family through the re-adoption process, citizenship process and post placement services available to them.
Many families seek Primary Provider services because they have adopted a relative or after completing an adoption or guardianship have been advised they must use the services of a Primary Provider to complete their process and bring their child home. Whatever stage you are in, in your adoption process, MLJ is happy to talk to you and try to assist you! After all, the best part of your child is being united as a family once your child arrives in the United States! As your Primary Provider, MLJ Adoptions can help you navigate your adoption process.
For additional information regarding MLJ Adoptions’ Primary Provider services, contact us.
Photo Credit: GSK