As we are gearing up for our next adoption, I've made myself a list of the first steps in the process to keep me organized. I thought that those of you who are also at the beginning stages of the process might find it helpful. Keep in mind that different agencies may ask for things to be done in a different order, so read all the directions provided in your application packets.

If you have any paperwork questions, be sure to get them answered before go to the trouble of having a document produced and notarized. You want every detail of your paperwork to be correct so that you don't have to waste time correcting errors. Also, though some things must be done in a specific order, many other things on the list can be done concurrently. I completed the first items on this list the very day we decided to go forward. I included the dates that I've done things so far just so you could get an idea of how you can clump the first tasks in the process.


FIRST STEPS



Agency Application

Get insurance letter to prove adopted children are covered (4-2-07) Copy taxes, birth certs, marriage license (4-2-07)
Fill out Ethiopian adoption agency application (4-2-07)
Send in Ethiopian adoption agency application (4-2-07)


Homestudy Application

Contact local homestudy agency (4-2-07)
Warn 4 friends we'll need another reference letter (4-3-07)
Copy taxes, birth certs, marriage (4-3-07)
Schedule local criminal background check (4-5-07)
When homestudy packet arrives fill out homestudy paperwork
When preliminary paperwork is done make first homestudy appointment
Clean house for social worker


Medical Checkup (required for homestudy)

Make doctor appointments (4-2-07)
Copy letter that doctor needs to sign for Ethiopia dossier (4-9-07)
Find out if doctor’s office has a notary; if not, hire one (4-9-07)
Go to doctor/ bring homestudy physical and dossier medical letter for doctor to sign (4-10-07)


Immigration Preapproval for Child

Print or pick up I600A (salmon colored paper is best)
Gather appropriate documentation
Fill out I600A
Get cashier’s check for BCIS
Hand deliver I600A or mail it depending on your proximity

Get passport if you are traveling to get your child


Related posts:

In The Beginning: Blackbelt Paper Pushing
Passport Application Delays