Hague Adoption Convention Application: International Adoption in Amsterdam
The Hague Adoption Convention (1993) regulates intercountry adoptions between contracting states. In Amsterdam, the application provides additional local support via the Amsterdam District Court and the Legal Aid Office, with safeguards for the child and adoptive parents and a standardized procedure.
Legal Basis
The application in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, is governed by:
- Act on the Admission of Foreign Children for Adoption (Wobka)
- Book 1 of the Dutch Civil Code (articles 1:227-1:230)
- Hague Adoption Convention 1993
In Amsterdam, the Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220 handles adoption judgments.
Core Principles
1. Subsidiarity Principle
Intercountry adoption is only applied when a solution in the country of origin is not possible. This principle is central to assessments in Amsterdam.
2. Central Authorities
In the Netherlands, this is the Central Authority for International Child Matters (CA-IKA). Local support in Amsterdam via the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office, Vijzelstraat 77.
3. Automatic Recognition
A convention adoption is automatically recognized in all contracting states, including after judgment by the Amsterdam District Court.
Procedure Overview
| Phase | Steps | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Course and screening (possible locally in Amsterdam) | 6-12 months |
| 2. Principle Consent | Application to CA-IKA | 3-6 months |
| 3. Matching | Matching child-parents | 6-24 months |
| 4. Adoption | Judgment Amsterdam District Court (Parnassusweg 220) | 1-6 months |
Conditions for Adoptive Parents
- At least 18 years older than the child
- Psychological suitability established
- Principle consent from CA-IKA obtained
- Mandatory preparation course completed (advice via Amsterdam Legal Aid Office)
Costs
- Preparation course: EUR 1,500 - 2,500
- Mediation costs: EUR 10,000 - 20,000
- Country of origin costs: EUR 5,000 - 15,000
- Total: EUR 20,000 - 45,000 (excl. local court fees Amsterdam District Court)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries fall under the convention?
More than 100 countries are parties to the convention, including Colombia, Thailand, China, India and South Africa. Current list via the Hague Conference website. Check with Amsterdam Legal Aid Office for specific cases.
How long does the process take?
On average 2-4 years, depending on the country of origin and availability of children. Local procedures in Amsterdam can accelerate.
Can single persons adopt?
Yes, provided they meet Dutch requirements. However, many countries of origin prefer married couples. Tailored advice at Amsterdam Legal Aid Office, Vijzelstraat 77.
Is the adoption automatically recognized?
Yes, a convention adoption is automatically recognized in all contracting states without a separate procedure, after approval by Amsterdam District Court.
Conclusion
The application of the Hague Adoption Convention provides a transparent and child-centered framework for intercountry adoptions in Amsterdam, with automatic recognition, professional guidance and local access to Amsterdam District Court (Parnassusweg 220) and Legal Aid Office (Vijzelstraat 77).