3 Types of Adoption in Pennsylvania
Understanding the types of adoption available is the first step toward finding the right path for your family.
If you're exploring adoption, you might feel overwhelmed by the choices ahead of you. You may be asking, "Which type of adoption is right for us?" and "Where do we begin?"
In this guide, we'll walk through the three main types of adoption in Pennsylvania: domestic infant adoption, foster care adoption and international adoption. We’ll also explain why working with a licensed adoption agency can make the journey smoother. If you’re ready to take the next step, you can reach out to an adoption specialist today.
3 Main Types of Adoption in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, hopeful adoptive families typically explore one of three routes: domestic infant adoption, foster care adoption or international adoption. Each of these different types of adoption comes with its own unique processes, requirements and opportunities.
Domestic Infant Adoption
In domestic infant adoption, a newborn is voluntarily placed for adoption by an expectant parent. It is the most common type of adoption in the U.S. and can offer a more predictable timeline than other options.
Domestic infant adoption usually begins before the child is born, and it allows the expectant parent to choose the family who will raise their child. The process typically involves some level of openness, which means there may be ongoing communication between you and the expectant parent, depending on what everyone is comfortable with.
American Adoptions specializes in domestic infant adoption, offering a full range of services to support both adoptive parents and expectant parents. This includes counseling, legal assistance, post-placement support, etc. Our agency ensures every step is handled with care and compassion.
Foster Care Adoption
Foster care adoption involves adopting a child who is currently in the custody of the state. These children may be older, part of a sibling group or have special needs. This path is often less expensive than other types of adoption, though the process may include additional training and home study requirements.
Many children in the Pennsylvania foster care system need permanent, loving families. However, reunification with the biological family is the primary goal of foster care, which means that not all foster children are immediately available for adoption.
It’s important to understand that while foster care adoption is incredibly meaningful, it can come with emotional complexities. Families may form strong bonds with a child who ultimately returns to their biological family. But for those children who are eligible for adoption, the opportunity to provide stability and love can be life-changing.
International Adoption
International adoption involves adopting a child from another country. This process is governed by the adoption laws of both the child’s home country and the United States, and it typically includes travel, paperwork and coordination with international agencies.
In recent years, global policies and changing political landscapes have made international adoption more complex. Some countries have reduced or paused international placements, which can affect timelines and availability.
Still, international adoption remains a powerful option for families who feel called to adopt a child from a different culture or who are open to adopting children with medical or developmental needs. This path may be right for families seeking to expand their family across borders while embracing the challenges and rewards that come with it.
How to Choose the Right Type of Adoption for Your Family
As you consider your options, think about the preferences and values that matter most to your family. Here are a few key factors to weigh:
There is no "right" answer. The best choice depends on your goals, flexibility and comfort level.
Why Work With a Licensed Adoption Agency
Adoption is a major life decision. Although there are many different types of adoption agencies, it’s important to find the right partner for your journey. Working with a licensed agency like American Adoptions provides essential benefits. We'll ensure you never have to figure things out on your own.
Our team brings years of experience, a deep understanding of Pennsylvania’s adoption laws and a commitment to helping families like yours move forward. We offer honest guidance, personalized support and a clear plan for every step of the process.
If you’re ready to start the adoption process or have more questions, we encourage you to reach out today. Our local offices also serve families across Pennsylvania:
Lewistown
3 W. Monument Square, Suite 210
1-800-ADOPTION
Philadelphia
1 International Plaza, Suite 550
1-800-ADOPTION
Pittsburgh
1-800-ADOPTION
Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.