Form I-600A, Instructions
Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition
OMB RIN: 1615-0028
812/2617/2014
Reason for Revision: UAA update
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Page 1, What Is the Purpose of This Form? |
On April, 2008, the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention) entered into force for the United States. Therefore, it is important to note that Form I-600A Application for Advance Processing of Orphan Petition, and/or Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, cannot be filed for the adoption of a child habitually residing in a Hague Adoption Convention country unless the adoption occurred before April1, 2008, or meets the requirements for a grandfathered transition case (example: Form I-600A or Form I-600 was filed prior to April 1, 2008). For a list of Hague Adoption Convention countries and for additional information regarding grandfathered transition cases, see the U.S. Department of State's Web site at www.adoption.state.gov and our Web site at www.uscis.gov .
This form is used by a U.S. citizen who plans to adopt a foreign-born child but does not have a specific child in mind. "Advance Processing" enables U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to adjudicate the application that relates to the qualifications of the applicant(s) as prospective adoptive parent(s).
Additionally, this form may be used in cases where the child is known and the PAP plan to travel to the country where the child is located during the adoption process. However, it is important that PAP be aware that the processing of this form does not authorize prospective adoptive parent(s) to take the child from the foreign country where the child is located. The child cannot immigrate to the United States as an "orphan" until a Form I-600 has been approved for the child and the child has obtained an immigrant visa.
NOTE: Form I-600A is not a petition to classify an orphan as an immediate relative. Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, is used for that purpose. |
What Is the Purpose of This Form?
Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition, enables U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to determine whether you (and your spouse, if married) are suitable and eligible to adopt a foreign-born child (or orphan) from a country that is not a party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention or Hague Convention). You may use Form I-600A if you are a U.S. citizen who plans to adopt an orphan, but do not have a specific child identified.
Additionally, you may use this form in cases where you know the child you wish to adopt and plan to travel to the country where the child is located during the adoption process. The processing of this form, however, does not authorize you to take the child from the foreign country where the child is located. The child cannot immigrate to the United States as an orphan until USCIS, or the government entity that USCIS designates, approves a Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, for the child and the child has obtained an immigrant visa.
On April 1, 2008, the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force for the United States. Therefore, it is important to note that you cannot file Form I-600A and/or Form I-600 for the adoption of a child habitually residing in a Hague Convention country unless the adoption occurred before April 1, 2008, or meets the requirements for a grandfathered transition case (example: Form I-600A or Form I-600 was filed prior to April 1, 2008). For a list of Hague Adoption Convention countries and for additional information regarding grandfathered transition cases, see the U.S. Department of State's Web site at www.adoption.state.gov and the adoption-related pages on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/adoption.
NOTE: Form I-600A is not a petition to classify an orphan as an immediate relative. Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, is used for that purpose.
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Page 1, [new] General Requirements
Intercountry Adoption Universal Accreditation Act of 2012 (UAA)
Effective July 14, 2014, any agency or person providing adoption services, including home study preparation, in intercountry adoption cases involving Form I-600A or Form I-600 must be accredited or approved, or be a supervised or exempted provider in compliance with the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 and accreditation regulations at Title 22 Part 96 of the Code of Federal Regulations (22 CFR 96). This accreditation or approval requirement now applies to both non-Hague Convention and Hague Convention adoptions.
The UAA does not apply to cases that meet certain criteria. For more information about the UAA, see the adoption-related pages on the USCIS Web site at ww.uscis.gov/adoption.
Role of Service Provider under UAA
1. Adoption Service Provider
If the UAA applies to your non-Hague Convention case, an individual or entity must be authorized under 22 CFR 96 to provide adoption services following the same accreditation or approval process required in Hague Convention adoption cases. You should ask any adoption service provider whether they are authorized under 22 CFR 96 to provide adoption services before working with that provider. A list of individuals and entities authorized under 22 CFR 96 is available at the Department of State's adoption Web site at www.adoptions.state.gov.
2. Legal Services Provider
Only an individual who is licensed in the United States as an attorney, or who is otherwise permitted under 8 CFR 1.2, 292.1, and 292.2 to practice before USCIS, may give you legal advice concerning your application, or provide any other legal services concerning your application. You should ask anyone providing you with legal advice if he or she is licensed to practice law or is otherwise permitted by U.S. federal regulation to provide you with legal advice pertaining to immigration processes.
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Page 1, What Are the Eligibility Requirements? |
1. Eligibility for advance processing using Form I-600A
An application for advance processing may be filed by a married U.S. citizen and spouse. Both the citizen and the spouse must sign the application. The spouse of the U.S. citizen does not need to be a U.S. citizen. However, he or she must be in a lawful immigration status if residing in the United States. An application for advance processing may also be filed by an unmarried U.S. citizen who is at least 24 years of age provided that he or she will be at least 25 years of age at the time he or she files an orphan petition on behalf of a child.
2. Eligibility for classifying an orphan as an immediate relative using Form 1-600
In addition to requirements concerning the citizenship and age of the petitioner, when a child is located and identified, additional eligibility requirements apply when filing Form I-600:
Please see the Instructions to Form I-600 for a complete list of Form I-600 eligibility requirements.
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Page 2, What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
1. Eligibility for Using Form I-600A
You must be a U.S. citizen to file Form I-600A to establish suitability and eligibility to adopt a child from a non-Hague Convention country.
NOTE: If you are married and your spouse lives in the United States, you must submit proof that your spouse is living in the United States lawfully. Your spouse does not need to be a U.S. citizen. However, if residing in the United States, your spouse must be a U.S. Citizen, a U.S. National, or a Lawful Permanent Resident, or have another lawful immigration status.
If you are unmarried, you must be at least 24 years of age to file Form I-600A and at least 25 years of age to file Form I-600 on behalf of a specific child.
2. Eligibility for Using Form I-600
You must be a U.S. citizen to file Form I-600 to classify a child from a non-Hague Convention country as an orphan under section 101(b)(1)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
Specific age requirements apply and some children may not be eligible to be a beneficiary of Form I-600. For example, you may not file Form I-600 on behalf of a child who is already in the United States, unless that child is in parole status and has not been adopted in the United States. You must also file Form I-600 before the child reaches 16 years of age, unless one of the following exceptions applies:
A. Sibling Exception: You may file Form I-600 after the child's 16th birthday, but before the child's 18th birthday only if the orphan is the birth sibling of another foreign national child who has immigrated (or will immigrate) based on adoption by the same adoptive parent or parents; OR
B. Form I-600A Filed When a Child is 15 Years of Age: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations at 8 CFR 204.3 do not directly address the relationship between the separate filing of Form I-600A and the statutory requirement to file Form I-600 while the child is under 16 years of age (or under 18 years of age as permitted under INA 101(b)(1)(F)(ii)). Consistent with the regulations governing Hague Convention adoption cases, USCIS will deem the Form I-600A filing date to be the Form I-600 filing date provided both of these requirements are met: (1) Form I-600A was filed after the child's 15th birthday, but before the child's 16th birthday (or, if applicable, after the child's 17th birthday, but before the child's 18th birthday); AND (2) Form I-600 is filed not more than 180 days after initial approval of Form I-600A.
NOTE: Even if you have not yet completed the adoption or obtained all of the required supporting documentation, you MUST file Form I-600 before the child turns 16 (or 18 if exception A. applies) or, if exception B. applies, no more than 180 days after the initial approval of your Form I-600A so that the child does not age out.
See the Form I-600 instructions for a complete list of Form I-600 eligibility requirements.
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Page 2, General Instructions
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Biometrics Services
As part of USCIS' biometric services requirements, the following persons must be fingerprinted in connection with this application:
1. The prospective adoptive parent and spouse, if married; and
2. Each additional adult member of the applicant's household, 18 years of age or older.
If necessary, users may also take a photograph and signature of those named above as part of the biometrics services.
1. Applicants Residing in the United States
After filing this application, users will notify each person in writing of the time and location where he or she must go to be fingerprinted, if necessary. Failure to appear to be fingerprinted or for other biometrics services when notified may result in denial of the application.
2. Applicants Residing Abroad
A completed Form FD-258, Applicant Fingerprint Card, is required for each individual requiring biometrics. The fingerprint card must be prepared by a U.S. Embassy or consulate, USCIS office, or U.S. military installation abroad. For additional information on obtaining fingerprints when filing outside the United States, consult the nearest USCIS overseas office or U.S. Embassy or consulate.
NOTE: If you, your spouse, and any adult member of the household reside outside of the United States, you are exempt from paying the USCIS biometrics services fee for fingerprinting at this time if fingerprinted abroad. However, you may have to pay fingerprinting fees charged by the U.S. Department of State or U.S. military installation abroad.
Copies Unless specifically required that an original document be filed with an application or petition, a legible photocopy may be submitted. Original documents submitted when not required may remain a part of the record, and will not be automatically returned to you.
Translations Any document containing foreign language submitted to users must be accompanied by a full English language translation which the translator has certified as complete and accurate, and by the translator's certification that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English
How to Fill Out Form I-600A
1. Type or print legibly in black ink.
2. If extra space is needed to complete any item, attach a continuation sheet, write your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any), at the top of each sheet of paper, indicate the Part and item number to which your answer refers, and date and sign each sheet.
3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If an item is not applicable or the answer is "none," leave the space blank.
4. Each application must be properly signed and filed. A photocopy of a signed application or a typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable.
Filling Out Form I-600, Supplement 1, Listing of Adult Member of the Household
If there are any additional adult members residing in your household other than you and your spouse (if married), Form I-600AIForm I-600, Supplement 1, Listing of Adult Members of the Household, must be completed for each of the adult members of your household. For purposes of this supplement, the definition of an adult member of the household is any individual who is over the age of 18 on or before the date the Form I-600A or Form I-600 is filed and whose principal or only residence is the home of the prospective adoptive parents.
NOTE: users reserves the right to request information on any household member who has not yet reached his or her 18th birthday before the date a Form I-600A or Form I-600 is filed, or who does not actually live at the same residence, but whose presence in the residence is relevant to the issue of your (and your spouse's, if married) suitability to adopt.
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Page 2, General Instructions
USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS Web site. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you should use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can download for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader.
Signature. Each application must be properly signed and filed. All signatures must be original. USCIS will not accept a photocopy of a signed application or a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. A power of attorney is also not sufficient for USCIS purposes. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian may sign the application on your behalf. A legal guardian also may sign for a mentally incompetent person.
Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee and biometric services fee (if applicable). (See the What Is the Filing Fee? section of these instructions.)
Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in the Initial Evidence section of these instructions.
Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature at any time to verify your identity, obtain additional information, and conduct background and security checks, including a check of criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, before making a decision on your application. After USCIS receives your application and ensures it is complete, we will inform you in writing if you need to attend a biometric services appointment. If an appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the location of your local or designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) and the date and time of your appointment. If you, your spouse (if married), or an adult member of your household fail to attend the biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny your application. For applicants residing abroad, see the Note for Applicants Residing Abroad below.
As part of USCIS' biometric services requirements, the following persons must be fingerprinted for this application:
1. You and your spouse (if married); and
2. Each adult member of your household 18 years of age or older. (Note: This may also include any person who has not yet reached his or her 18th birthday, or who does not actually live at the same residence, but whose presence in your residence is relevant to your and your spouse's suitability to adopt, as determined by USCIS).
If necessary, USCIS may also take a photograph and signature as part of the biometric services.
Note for Applicants Residing in the United States: After you file your application, USCIS will notify each person in writing of the time and ASC location where he or she must go for biometric services.
Note for Applicants Residing Abroad: Each individual who requires biometric services must submit a completed Form FD-258, Applicant Fingerprint Card, or appear for electronic biometrics where available. A USCIS international office, U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate, or U.S. military installation abroad must prepare the fingerprint card or obtain the electronic biometrics. For additional information on obtaining biometric services when residing outside the United States, consult the nearest USCIS international office, U.S. Embassy, or U.S. Consulate.
Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center (if applicable). Review the ASC Acknowledgement that appears in Parts 5. and 7. of the application. The purpose of this acknowledgement is to confirm that you and your spouse (if married) have completed your application, reviewed your responses, and verified that the information provided is complete, true, and correct. If you and/or your spouse used someone to prepare this application, that person must review the acknowledgement with you and/or your spouse to make sure you and/or your spouse understand it.
Copies. You may submit a legible photocopy of documents requested, unless the instructions specifically state that you must submit an original document. USCIS may request the original document at any time if the original document should become necessary. If you submit original documents when not required, the documents may remain a part of the record, and USCIS will not automatically return them to you.
Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English translation. The translator must certify that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English.
Affidavits. If you cannot obtain a required document, you must submit an original written statement from the governmental agency that should have the record verifying that the record does not exist or a citation to the U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual indicating that the records are generally not available, or otherwise demonstrate the unavailability of both the primary and secondary evidence. Only then may you submit two or more written affidavits sworn to or affirmed by persons who are not parties to the application who have direct personal knowledge of the event and circumstances. Affidavits should contain the following information about each person making the affidavit: his or her full name, address, date and place of birth, relationship to you, full information concerning the event, and complete details on how he or she acquired knowledge of the event.
How To Fill Out Form I-600A
1. Type or print legibly in black ink.
2. If you need extra space to complete any item within this application, attach a separate sheet of paper; type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.
3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (e.g., if you have never been married and the question asks “Provide the name of your current spouse”), print “N/A” unless otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (e.g., “How many children do you have?” or “How many times have you departed the United States?), type or print “None” unless otherwise directed.
4. Accommodations for Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments. If you believe that you need USCIS to accommodate your, your spouse's (if married), or other household member's disability and/or impairment, select the "Yes" box and then select the appropriate boxes in Part 4. to indicate who has the disabilities and/or impairments and describe the nature of the disabilities and/or impairments. Also, type or print the accommodation(s) you are requesting in the space provided. If you are requesting a sign-language interpreter, you should indicate for which language.
5. Applicant’s Statement, ASC Acknowledgement (if applicable), Certification, Signature, and Contact Information. Select the box that indicates if you have read and understand this application or if someone interpreted this application for you. If applicable, select the box to indicate if someone else prepared this application for you. You also must affirm that you have read and understand the Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center (if applicable). Further, you must sign and date your application and complete Item Numbers 4., 5., and 6.
6. Applicant’s Duty of Disclosure. Under 8 CFR 204.311(d), you, your spouse (if married), and any adult member of your household have a duty of candor in completing Form I-600A (if applicable), Form I-600, during the home study process, and an ongoing duty of disclosure throughout the adoption process. (See the Duty of Disclosure section below for specific information.) Read the Duty of Disclosure statement, then sign and date this section of the application.
7. Spouse’s Statement, ASC Acknowledgement (if applicable), Certification, Signature, and Contact Information. Your spouse should select the box that indicates if he or she has read and understands this application or if someone interpreted this application for him or her. If applicable, your spouse should select the box to indicate if someone else prepared this application for him or her. Your spouse must also affirm that he or she has read and understands the Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center (if applicable). Further, your spouse must sign and date the application and complete Item Numbers 4., 5., and 6.
8. Spouse’s Duty of Disclosure. Under 8 CFR 204.311(d), your spouse (if married) has a duty of candor in completing Form I-600A, Form I-600, during the home study process, and an ongoing duty of disclosure throughout the adoption process. (See the Duty of Disclosure section below for specific information.) Your spouse must read the Duty of Disclosure statement, then sign and date this section of the application.
9. Interpreter’s Name, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature. If you and/or your spouse (if married) used an interpreter to read the instructions and questions on this application, the interpreter must complete Part 9., certify that he or she has read and accurately translated to you and/or your spouse the Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center (if applicable), sign and date the application.
10. Name, Contact Information, Statement, Certification, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, If Other Than the Applicant and/or Spouse. If you and/or your spouse (if married) used a preparer to complete this application, the preparer must complete Part 10., certify that he or she has read to you and/or your spouse the Acknowledgement of Appointment at USCIS Application Support Center (if applicable), sign and date the application. If the person completing this application is an attorney or accredited representative whose representation extends beyond the preparation of this application, he or she must submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, or Form G-28I, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney in Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States, along with your application.
Note: An “accredited representative” for purposes of preparation of this form means an individual accredited under 8 CFR 292.2(d) to practice before USCIS and/or the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). This type of accreditation is separate and distinct from accreditation under the Department of State regulations at 22 CFR Part 96 to provide adoption services.
We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future and for your records. If you must appear for a biometric services appointment at a USCIS ASC, we recommend that you review your copy of your completed application before you come to the appointment. At that appointment, you will be permitted to complete the application process only if you are able to confirm, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in your application is accurate, true, and complete. If you are not able to make that attestation in good faith at that time, you will be required to return for another appointment when you are able to do so.
Form I-600A/I-600, Supplement 1, Listing of Adult Member of the Household
You must complete Form I-600A/I-600, Supplement 1, Listing of Adult Member of the Household, for each adult member of your household. For purposes of this supplement, the definition of an adult member of the household is any individual other than you and your spouse (if married), who has the same principal residence as you and is 18 years of age or older on or before the date that Form I-600A or Form I-600 is filed. Residence is defined as the place of general abode or a person's principal, actual dwelling place in fact, without regard to intent.
NOTE: USCIS reserves the right to request information on any household member who has not yet reached his or her 18th birthday before the date when Form I-600A or Form I-600 is filed, or who does not actually live at the same residence, but whose presence in the residence is relevant to the issue of your and your spouse's (if married) suitability to adopt. |
Page 3, Initial Evidence
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1. Proof of U. S. citizenship of the prospective adoptive parent(s)
A. If a U.S. citizen by birth in the United States, submit a copy of the birth certificate issued by the civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority. If a birth certificate is not available, submit a statement from the appropriate civil authority certifying that a birth certificate is not available. In such a situation, secondary evidence must be submitted, including:
1. Church records bearing the seal of the church showing the baptism, dedication, or comparable rite occurred within two months after birth and showing the date and place of the prospective adoptive parent's birth, date of the religious ceremony, and the names of the parents;
2. School records issued by the authority (preferably the first school attended) showing the date of admission to the school, prospective adoptive parent's date of birth, or age at the time, the place of birth, and the names of the parents;
3. Census records (State or Federal) showing the name, place of birth, date of birth, or age of the prospective adoptive parent listed;
4. Affidavits sworn to or affirmed by two persons who were living at the time and who have personal knowledge of the date and place of birth in the United States of the prospective adoptive parent. Each affidavit should contain the following information regarding the person making the affidavit: his or her full name, address, date, place of birth, and relationship to the prospective adoptive parent, if any, and full information concerning the event and complete details of how the affiant acquired knowledge of the birth; or
5. An unexpired U.S. passport issued for 10 years may also be submitted as proof of U.S. citizenship.
B. If the prospective adoptive parent was born outside the United States, submit a copy of one of the following:
1. Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship issued by USCIS;
2. Form FS-240, Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States, issued by a U.S. Embassy;
3. An unexpired U.S. passport issued for 10 years; or
4. An original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying the applicant's U.S. citizenship with a valid passport.
NOTE: If the applicant is married, and the spouse lives in the United States, the applicant must submit proof that the spouse is living in the United States lawfully. If the spouse is a U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national, the applicant must submit the same type of evidence as the evidence to establish the applicant's own U.S. citizenship. If the spouse is an alien who is residing in the United States, proof of the spouse's lawful immigration status, such as Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card; Form I-94, Arrival - Departure Record; or a copy of the biographic pages of the spouse's passport and the nonimmigrant visa pages showing an admission stamp may be submitted.
2. Proof of marriage of applicant and spouse
The married applicant must submit a copy of the certificate of marriage and proof of termination of all prior marriages of himself or herself and spouse. In the case of an unmarried applicant who was previously married, submit proof of termination of all prior marriages.
NOTE: If any change occurs in the applicant's marital status while the application is pending, immediately notify the users office where the application was filed.
3. Proof of compliance with pre-adoption requirements, if any.
If the child is to be adopted in the United States, you must provide evidence that pre-adoption requirements, if any, of the State of the orphan's proposed residence have been met. If you cannot submit this evidence upon initial filing of the application under the laws of the State of proposed residence, it may be submitted later. The Form I-600 petition, however, will not be approved without it.
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Page 5, Initial Evidence
1. Proof of Applicant’s U. S. Citizenship
A. If you are a U.S. citizen by birth, submit a copy of your birth certificate issued by the civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority. If your birth certificate is not available, submit a statement from the appropriate civil authority certifying that your birth certificate is not available. In such a situation, secondary evidence must be submitted, such as:
(1) Religious records bearing the seal of the organization showing the baptism, dedication, or comparable rite occurred within two months after your birth and showing the date and place of your birth, date of the religious ceremony, and the names of your parents;
(2) School records issued by the authority (preferably the first school you attended) showing the date of your admission to the school, your age at the time, and your parents’ names and places of birth;
(3) Census records (state or Federal) showing your name, place of birth, and date of birth or age;
(4) Affidavits sworn to or affirmed by persons who were living at the time of your birth and who have personal knowledge of your date and place of birth in the United States. Affidavits should contain the following information about each person making the affidavit: his or her full name, address, date and place of birth, relationship to you, full information concerning the event, and complete details on how he or she acquired knowledge of your birth; or
(5) An unexpired U.S. passport issued for 10 years.
B. If you were born outside the United States, submit a copy of one of the following:
(1) Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship issued by USCIS or the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS);
(2) Form FS-240, Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States, issued by a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate;
(3) An unexpired U.S. passport issued for 10 years; or
(4) An original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying your U.S. citizenship with an unexpired passport.
NOTE: If you are married, and your spouse lives in the United States, you must submit proof that your spouse is living in the United States lawfully. If your spouse is a U.S. citizen or non-citizen U.S. national, you must submit evidence from Part A. or B. above as proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship or non-citizen U.S. national status. If your spouse is an alien who is residing in the United States, submit proof of your spouse's lawful immigration status, such as: Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card; Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record; a copy of the biographic pages of your spouse's passport and his or her nonimmigrant visa pages showing an admission stamp; or any other Department of Homeland Security (DHS)-issued document.
2. Proof of Marriage of Applicant and Spouse (if applicable)
If you are married, you must submit a copy of your marriage certificate. If you or your spouse were previously married, you must also submit proof of termination of any prior marriages.
NOTE: If any change occurs in the your marital status while your application is pending, immediately notify the USCIS office that has jurisdiction over your case.
3. Proof of Compliance with Pre-adoption Requirements (if any)
If you intend to adopt the child in the United States, you must provide evidence that any pre-adoption requirements of the state of the orphan's proposed residence in the United States have been met. If you cannot submit this evidence upon initial filing of your application under the laws of your state of proposed residence in the United States, you may submit this evidence later. However, USCIS will not approve your Form I-600 petition for a specific child without it. |
Page 4, Home Study |
You must submit a home study prepared according to the requirements specified in 8 CFR 204.3(e) by a person who is authorized under 8 CFR 204.3(b) to prepare the home study. If you do not submit the home study with your Form I-600A, it must be submitted no more than 1 year after you file Form I-600A. The home study must have been completed or updated not more than 6 months before the date it is submitted to USCIS. The home study submitted must also have original signature(s).
In order to prepare a home study, the person must be licensed or otherwise authorized under the law of the State of the child's proposed residence to prepare home studies for adoptions. The home study preparer may be a public agency with authority under State law for adoption matters, or a public or private adoption agency licensed in the State of the child's proposed residence. The home study preparer may also be an individual, if the person is, as an individual, licensed or otherwise authorized to prepare home studies for adoption under the law of the State of the child's proposed residence.
If you live abroad and will adopt the child abroad, the home study may be prepared by an agency or individual who is licensed or authorized to prepare home studies under the law of the country in which you reside, or under the law of any State in the United States. In addition to having a home study preparer that meets this requirement, the home study, before it is submitted to USCIS, must be reviewed and favorably recommended by a public or private adoption agency licensed or otherwise authorized by any State of the United States to place children for adoption.
NOTE: USCIS does not enforce foreign licensing laws. So if your home study is prepared abroad by a home study preparer licensed in the United States and is reviewed and favorably recommended by a public or private adoption agency licensed in the United States, you may submit it to USCIS, and USCIS will accept it. The country in which you reside, however, may have its own laws concerning who may conduct adoption home studies in that country. You may want to verify whether a person licensed to conduct home studies in a State in the United States is permitted, under the law of the country in which you reside, to conduct home studies in that country.
The home study must provide an assessment of the capabilities of the prospective adoptive parent(s) to provide proper parental care to an adopted orphan in light of the requirements stated in 8 CFR 204.3(e). The home study must include a discussion of the following elements:
1. Personal interview(s) and home visit(s);
2. Assessment of the capabilities of the prospective adoptive parents to properly parent the orphan, including: A. Assessment of the physical, mental, and emotional capabilities of the prospective adoptive parents to properly parent the orphan;
B. Assessment of the finances of the prospective adoptive parents;
C. History of abuse or violence;
D. Previous rejection for adoption or prior unfavorable home study; and
E. Criminal history;
3. Living accommodations;
4. Handicapped or special needs orphan;
5. Summary of the counseling given and plans for post placement counseling;
6. Specific approval of the prospective adoptive parents for adoption;
7. Home study preparer's certification and statement of authority to conduct home studies; and
8. Review of home study by the appropriate State agency, if required, and by a private or public adoption agency licensed in the United States, if you live abroad and will adopt abroad.
NOTE: You must include all information concerning any criminal history, even if an arrest, indictment, other criminal charge, or conviction has been expunged, sealed, pardoned, or ameliorated in any other way. Having committed any crime involving moral turpitude or a drug related offense does not necessarily mean that the prospective adoptive parent(s) will be found not qualified to adopt a child. However, failure to disclose such information may result in the denial of this application and/ or any subsequent petition for a child.
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Page 6,
4. Home Study
You must submit a home study prepared according to the requirements specified in 8 CFR 204.311 by a person who is authorized under 22 CFR 96 to prepare the home study.
NOTE: Effective July 14, 2014, 8 CFR 204.3(e) and certain definitions in 8 CFR 204.3(b) no longer apply unless a case meets certain criteria specified in the Intercountry Adoption Universal Accreditation Act of 2012 (UAA), which would exempt the case from UAA requirements. See the adoption-related pages on the USCIS Web site for more information at www.uscis.gov/adoption.
An authorized home study preparer must prepare your home study. The home study preparer (or, if the home study is prepared by an entity, the officer or employee who has authority to sign the home study for the entity) must personally sign the home study and any updated or amended home study under penalty of perjury under U.S. law.
A home study preparer is an individual or agency authorized to conduct home studies, either as a public domestic authority, a public foreign authority, an accredited agency, approved person, supervised provider, or exempted provider as defined in (see 8 CFR 204.301). The home study preparer (other than a public domestic authority or a public foreign authority) must hold any license or other authorization that is required to conduct adoption home studies under the law of the jurisdiction in which the home study is prepared. You should ask any adoption service provider whether they are authorized to provide adoption services in connection with adoptions according to 22 CFR 96 before engaging that provider's services.
NOTE: An accredited agency must review and approve any home study that was not performed by an accredited agency before it is submitted to USCIS. This requirement does not apply to a home study that was prepared by a public domestic authority or a public foreign authority. A public domestic authority means an authority operated by a state, local, or tribal government within the United States. A public foreign authority means an authority operated by a national or subnational government of a foreign country.
You have one year from the filing date of your application to submit your home study.
If you submit Form I-600A without your home study because your state of residence must review and forward your home study directly to USCIS, you should select Part 2., Information About Your Home Study Preparer and/or Adoption Service Provider, Item Number 1, Item B. Do not submit your Form I-600A to USCIS until your state authority is ready to send your home study to USCIS. If your state authority must review and approve your home study, but will forward it to you (as opposed to USCIS directly), do not file Form I-600A until that appropriate state authority has reviewed your home study and you are ready to submit it to USCIS.
If you submit your application without a home study because you indicate that it will be forwarded to USCIS directly by the state authority, USCIS will send you a notice providing you with the date by which the home study must be submitted. If the state authority fails to submit the home study by the date specified, USCIS may deny your Form I-600A. Thus, you or the accredited agency will need to work closely with your state authority to ensure that the home study is submitted on time.
In all cases, your home study must not be more than six months old when it is submitted to USCIS. If it is more than six months old, you must include an update or amendment that is not more than six months old.
Home Study Requirements
For a complete description of the requirements for a home study subject to the UAA, see 8 CFR 204.311 and 22 CFR 96.
Home Study Updates and Amendments
Ordinarily, you will not have to submit an updated or amended home study to USCIS unless you are requesting an extension of your Form I-600A approval or there is a significant change in your household or in the characteristics of the child you intend to adopt since your home study was completed. Listed below are some examples of significant changes that require a home study amendment or update. Your adoption service provider can advise you on other changes that may require an amended or updated home study.
If the change in marital status is:
I-600A that reflects your changed marital status and required signatures. No fee is required.
2. Change of residence including a change in the child's proposed state of residence in the United States. You must meet any pre-adoption requirements of the new state of proposed residence in the United States in the case of a child coming to the United States for adoption.
3. Any change in history of arrest, substance abuse, child abuse, and/or family violence, as an offender, for you, your spouse (if married), or any household member regardless of age.
4. Change to a different non-Hague Convention country. This change may require an updated or amended home study to address suitability under the requirements of the new non-Hague Convention country.
5. Addition of one or more children to your home, whether through adoption, foster care, birth, or any other means, prior to the child's immigration to the United States. You must submit an updated or amended home study even if your last home study recommended the adoption of more than one child. The updated or amended home study must recommend the adoption of an additional child because the actual placement of one or more children in your household after you submit your home study to USCIS is a significant change in your household, which must be assessed to ensure you and your spouse (if married) remain suitable to parent an orphan.
6. Addition of one or more members of the household, including adults and children, to the family prior to the child's immigration to the United States.
7. Seeking to adopt a child with a special need, disability, and/or impairment, if the last home study you submitted to USCIS did not already address your suitability to parent a child with the particular special need, disability, and/or impairment.
8. Lapse of more than six months between the date your home study is completed and the date you submit it to USCIS.
9. Change in the number of children or characteristics (such as age and/or gender) of the child or children you intend to adopt.
How to File Updates and Amendments to Your Home Study
If you need to file an updated or amended home study, you must always include a copy of the home study that is being updated or amended, including all prior updates and amendments.
If you need to submit an updated or amended home study after USCIS has approved your Form I-600A, but before USCIS, or the government entity that USCIS designates, issues a decision on your Form I-600, you must submit the following items to the USCIS office that approved your Form I-600A if your Form I-600A approval is still valid or to the USCIS office with jurisdiction over your Form I-600 if your Form I-600A approval has expired:
See the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/adoption/home-study-information.
NOTE: A change in marital status after approval of Form I-600A will require you to file a new Form I-600A with a new home study and any required fees.
If USCIS determines that the updated or amended home study shows that you and your spouse (if married) remain suitable to parent an orphan, USCIS will issue a new approval notice with the same expiration date as the original approval, unless you submitted the updated or amended home study in support of a request for an extension of your Form I-600A approval.
If you need to submit an updated or amended home study before USCIS adjudicates your Form I-600A, you may submit the updated or amended home study, cover letter, and a copy of the home study that you are updating or amending (including all prior updates and amendments) to the office that has jurisdiction your your Form I-600A.
NOTE: A change in marital status while Form I-600A is pending will require you to file a new Form I-600A accompanied by a new home study, but without a fee. See the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/adoption/home-study-information for information on filing home study updates and amendments.
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Page 9, [new] Duty of Disclosure
Under 8 CFR 204.311(d), you, your spouse (if married), and any adult member of your household have a duty of candor in completing Form I-600A (if applicable), Form I-600, during the home study process, and an ongoing duty of disclosure throughout the adoption process. This duty requires you, your spouse, and any adult member of your household, to:
1. Provide true and complete information to the home study preparer;
2. Disclose other relevant information, such as physical, mental, or emotional health problems or behavioral issues;
3. Disclose any arrest, conviction, or other adverse criminal history, whether in the United States or abroad, even if the record of the arrest, conviction, or other adverse criminal history was expunged, sealed, pardoned, or the subject of any other amelioration;
4. Disclose any history of substance abuse, sexual abuse, child abuse, and/or family violence as an offender under 8 CFR 204.309(a)(1); and
5. Notify the home study preparer and USCIS of any new event or information that might warrant submission of an amended or updated home study.
With respect to child abuse or neglect, this duty of disclosure requires the disclosure of any currently pending investigation by any child welfare agency, court, or other official authority in any state or foreign country concerning the abuse or neglect of any child, as well as past investigation other than an investigation that was completed and formally closed based on a finding that the allegation of abuse or neglect was unfounded or unsubstantiated.
This duty of disclosure is an ongoing duty, and continues while any Form I-600A is pending, after any Form I-600A is approved, while any Form I-600 is pending, and until there is a final decision admitting a child, on whose behalf you filed Form I-600, to the United States with a visa.
WARNING Under 8 CFR 204.309(a), USCIS will deny this application if you, your spouse (if married), or any adult member of your household:
1. Fail to disclose, conceal, or misrepresent any facts to the home study preparer or USCIS about any arrest, conviction, or history of substance abuse, sexual abuse, child abuse, and/or family violence, or any other criminal history as an offender. The fact that an arrest or conviction or other criminal history was expunged, sealed, pardoned, or the subject of any other amelioration does not relieve you, your spouse, or any additional adult member of your household of the obligation to disclose the arrest, conviction, or other criminal history;
2. Fail to cooperate in having available child abuse registries checked in accordance with 8 CFR 204.311;
3. Fail to disclose, as required by 8 CFR 204.311, each and every prior adoption home study, whether completed or not, including those that did not favorably recommend you, your spouse, or any adult member of your household for adoption or custodial care.
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Page 4, What Is the Filing Fee?
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The filing fee for Form I-600A is $720.
An additional biometrics services fee of $85 is required for fingerprinting every adult person (age 18 or older) in the United States, living in the household where the child will reside.
NOTE: Individuals who require fingerprinting and who reside outside of the United States are exempt from USCIS biometrics services fees at this time if fingerprinted abroad. However, each adult member of the household MUST be fingerprinted even if they may be exempt from paying certain biometrics services fees. (Please note that the U.S Department of State or the U.S. military may charge fingerprinting fees.)
To ensure proper filing of your application, you must enclose a separate check or money order for each application requiring filing and/or biometrics services fees. For example, if an application is filed by a married couple residing in the United States with one additional adult member in their household, the total fees that must be submitted are $720 for the Form I-600A application and a separate check for $255 ($85 X 3 adult household members) for fingerprinting, for each adult living in the household.
NOTE: USCIS will allow for a one-time re-fingerprinting at no charge to the prospective adoptive parent(s) and any adult members of the household who are 18 years of age or older if the 15-month period has or will expire before the final adjudication of any related Form I-600 filed on behalf of a specific child.
If your application is accepted, USCIS will not refund the fee, regardless of the action taken on the application. Do not mail cash. All fees must be submitted in the exact amounts.
Use the following guidelines when you prepare your check or money order for the Form I-600A filing and biometrics services fees:
1. The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must be payable in U.S. currency.
2. Make the check or money order payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials "USDHS" or "DHS."
3. If you live outside the United States, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for instructions on the method of payment.
Notice to Those Making Payment by Check
If you send us a check, it will be converted into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours and will be shown on your regular account statement.
You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but we will keep a copy of it. If the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient funds, we may try to make the transfer up to two times. |
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What Is the Filing Fee?
The filing fee for Form I-600A is $720.
A biometric services fee of $85 is required for every applicant, spouse (if married), and any adult member of the household. For adult persons living abroad, see the Note for Applicants Residing Abroad below.
NOTE: The filing fee and biometric services fee are not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this application. DO NOT MAIL CASH. You must submit all fees in the exact amount.
Note for Applicants Residing Abroad: You, your spouse (if married), and each adult member of your household MUST provide biometrics:
To ensure you file your application properly, you must enclose a separate check or money order for each application requiring filing and/or biometric services fees. For example, if a married couple residing in the United States with one adult member of their household files an application, the total fees would be $720 for Form I-600A and a separate check or money order for $255 ($85 x 3 adults living in the household) for biometrics.
NOTE: USCIS will provide one additional biometric services appointment at no charge to you, your spouse (if married), and/or any adult member of your household, if the 15-month biometric services validity period has or will expire before the final adjudication of your Form I-600 petition. See the adoption-related pages on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/adoption for more information about requesting the additional biometric services appointment.
[Deleted]
Use the following guidelines when you prepare your checks or money orders for the Form I-600A filing and biometric services fees:
1. The checks or money orders must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must be payable in U.S. currency.
2. Make the checks or moneys order payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials "USDHS" or "DHS."
Notice to Those Making Payment by Check.
If you send us a check, USCIS will convert it into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours, and your bank will show it on your regular account statement.
You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If USCIS cannot complete the EFT because of insufficient funds, we may try to make the transfer up to two times.
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Page 5, How to Check If the Fees Are Correct
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Form I-600A filing fees and biometrics services fees are current as of the edition date in the lower right comer of this page. However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify if the fees are correct by following one of the steps below:
1. Visit the USCIS Web site at select "FORMS," and check the appropriate fee; or
2. Telephone the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for fee information. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833.
NOTE: If your Form I-600A requires payment of a biometrics services fee for USCIS to take your fingerprints, photograph, or signature, you can use the same procedure to obtain the correct biometrics fee.
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Page 10,
How to Check If the Fees Are Correct
The Form I-600A filing and biometric services fees listed above are current as of the edition date in the lower left corner of this page. However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify that the fees are correct by following one of the steps below:
1. Visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov, select "FORMS," and check the appropriate fee; or
2. Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for fee information. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
[Deleted]
3. If you live outside the United States, contact the nearest USCIS international office, U.S. Embassy, or U.S. Consulate for instructions on fees and the method of payment.
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Page 5, Where To File?
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Please see our Web site at www.uscis.gov/I-600A or call our National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the most current information about where to file this benefit request. For TDD (hearing impaired) call1-800-767-1833.
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Page 10, Where To File? Please see our Web site at www.uscis.gov/I-600A or call our National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the most current information about where to file this application. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
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Page 5, Address Change
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If you have changed your address, you must inform USCIS of your new address. You must submit your change of address to the office with jurisdiction over your case. If you filed with the USCIS Lockbox, the National Benefits Center (NBC) has jurisdiction over your case. If you filed at an overseas office, you will need to submit your change of address to that office. Due to your change in residence, you may also be required to submit an amended home study for a "significant change."
Please visit our Web site at www.uscis.gov and select "Adoption" for information on significant changes due to a change in residence.
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the USCIS Lockbox facilities do not process change of address requests.
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Page 10, Address Change You must notify USCIS of your new address within 10 days of moving from your previous residence. For information on filing a change of address go to the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/addresschange or contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
In addition, you must notify the USCIS office with jurisdiction over your case. If you filed your application with the USCIS Lockbox, the National Benefits Center (NBC) has jurisdiction over your case. If you filed at a USCIS international office, you will need to submit your change of address to that office. Due to your change in residence, USCIS may also require you to submit an updated or amended home study for a significant change.
See the adoption-related pages on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/adoption for information on significant changes due to a change in residence and current mailing addresses for the NBC and USCIS international offices.
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because these facilities do not process change of address requests. |
Page 5, Processing Information
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What Should You Do After Locating or Identifying a Child or Children?
Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative, is filed when a child has been located and/or identified for the prospective adoptive parent(s). A new fee is not required if Form I-600 is filed within 18 months from the approval date of Form I-600A.
If approved in the home study for more than one child, the prospective adoptive parent(s) may file a petition for each of the additional children to the maximum number reflected in the Form I-600A approval notice. If the children are siblings, no additional filing fee is required. However, if the children are not siblings, an additional filing fee is required for each Form I-600 beyond the initial Form I-600.
A fee of $720 must be submitted for filing a Form I-600 petition. However, a fee is not required for Form I-600 if you filed Form I-600A for advance processing, and it was approved (or an extension approved) within the previous 18 months, or is still pending.
A fee is also not required if you requested the one-time, no fee extension of the approval of Form I-600A, and that request was approved.
NOTE: Approval of an advance processing application does not guarantee that the orphan petition (s) will be approved
Form I-600 must be accompanied by all the evidence required by the instructions of that form, except when provided previously with Form I-600A.
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Page 10, Processing Information
[Deleted] – go to Certification
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Page 6, Certification
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The "Certification of Prospective Adoptive Parent" block of Form I-600A must be executed by the prospective adoptive parent. The spouse, if applicable, must execute the "Certification of Married Prospective Adoptive Parent Spouse" block on the form. Failure to do so will result in the rejection of Form I-600A.
Any Form I-600A that is not signed or accompanied by the correct fee will be rejected with a notice that Form I-600A is deficient. You may correct the deficiency and resubmit Form I-600A. An application or petition is not considered properly filed until accepted by USCIS.
Initial Processing
Once Form I-600A has been accepted, it will be checked for completeness, including submission of the required initial evidence. If you do not completely fill out the form or file it without required initial evidence, you will not establish a basis for eligibility, and we may deny your Form I-600A.
Requests for More Information or Interview
We may request more information or evidence, or we may request that you appear at a USCIS office for an interview.
We may also request that you submit the original of any copy. Once USCIS completes the adjudication of your application, you may request the return of your original documents by filing a Form G-884, Request for the Return of Original Documents..
At the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS office, USCIS may require that you provide biometric information (e.g., photograph, fingerprints) to verify your identity and update your background information.
Decision
The decision on Form I-600A involves a determination of whether you, and your spouse, if married, have established eligibility and suitability to provide proper care for an orphan. You will be notified of the decision in writing.
Extension of the Form I-600A Approval Period
If USCIS has approved your Form I-600A, and you have not yet filed Form I-600 based on that approval, you may make one request, without fee, to have users extend the approval period of your Form I-600A an additionall8 months. If your Form I-600A was approved domestically, you must submit a written request to the USCIS National Benefits Center. If your Form I-600A was approved abroad, you must submit a written request to the users office abroad that approved your original Form I-600A application. The request must be received no earlier than 90 days prior to the expiration of Form I-600A approval, but before Form I-600A approval notice expires. For instance, if your Form I-600A approval notice is valid until December 31, you may not file the request before October 3, but your request must be received at the USCIS office before no later than December 31.
The written request must explicitly request a one-time, no charge extension to the current Form I-600A approval. You must submit an amended or updated home study with original signature(s) and any other supporting documentation of any changes in the household. The home study amendment or update must address each issue under 8 CFR 204.3(e) and indicate whether anything has changed on any item. The home study must also address any changes to Form I-600A answers and must say whether approval is still recommended.
Requesting a Change of Country
If you had USCIS send the approved Form I-600A to the U.S. Department of State National Visa Center for a particular country, but now wish to adopt a child from a different country, you may make one request, without fee, to have a new approval notice sent to the U.S. Department of State National Visa Center for the new country. If your Form I-600A was approved domestically, you must submit a written request to the USCIS National Benefits Center. If your Form I-600A was approved abroad, you must submit a written request to the users office abroad that approved your original Form I-600A application. You should also submit an updated or amended home study with original signature(s) that addresses the change in country and whether the home study preparer recommends approval of the change and that also addresses any other changes since your Form I-600A was approved.
If you have already received one no-fee change of country, then you must submit a properly completed Form I-824, Application for Action on Approved Petition or Application, with the fee specified on the USCIS Web site in 8 CFR, 103.7(b) to obtain any additional change of country. You may also need to submit an updated or amended home study with original signature(s) that addresses the change in country and whether the home study preparer recommends approval of the change and that also addresses any other changes since your Form I-600A was approved.
A Second Form I-600A Filing for a Grandfathered Case
If you have a current Form I-600A approval notice (or an extension of an approval notice) for an adoption in a Hague Convention country, and it is expiring, you may be eligible to continue with the orphan process by filing a second Form I-600A, with fee, while your current Form I-600A or extension remains valid. If USCIS approved your original Form I-600A in the United States, please contact the USCIS National Benefits Center for more information at telephone number: 1-877-424-8374, or email: [email protected]. If a USCIS overseas office approved your original Form I-600A, please contact the overseas approving office. For more information, visit the "Frequently Asked Questions" concerning a grandfathered Form I-600A at www.uscis. gov. |
Page 11,
Certification. You must fill out and sign Parts 5. and 6. of Form I-600A. Your spouse (if married) must fill out and sign Parts 7. and 8.
USCIS will reject any Form I-600A that is not signed or accompanied by the correct fee, if any, and issue a notice stating that your Form I-600A is deficient. You may correct the deficiency and resubmit Form I-600A. An application is not considered properly filed until USCIS accepts it.
Initial Processing. Once USCIS accepts your application, we will check it for completeness. If you do not completely fill out this application, you will not establish a basis for your eligibility and USCIS may reject or deny your application.
Requests for More Information. We may request that you provide more information or evidence to support your application. We also may request that you provide the originals of any copies you submit. USCIS will return any requested originals when they are no longer needed.
Requests for Interview. We may request that you appear at a USCIS office for an interview based on your application. At the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS office, we may require that you provide your fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature to verify your identity and/or update background and security checks.
Decision. The decision on Form I-600A involves a determination of whether you have established suitability and eligibility to provide proper care for an orphan. USCIS will notify you of the decision in writing.
Extension of Form I-600A Approval Period
If USCIS has approved your Form I-600A, and you have not yet filed Form I-600 based on that approval, you may make one request, without fee, to have USCIS extend the approval period of your Form I-600A an additional 18 months. If your Form I-600A was approved domestically, you must submit a written request to the NBC. If your Form I-600A was approved abroad, you must submit a written request to the USCIS international office that approved your original Form I-600A. USCIS must receive the request before your Form I-600A approval expires, but no earlier than 90 days prior to its expiration. For instance, if your Form I-600A approval notice is valid until December 31, you may not file the request before October 3, but USCIS must receive your request at the USCIS office no later than December 31.
The written request must explicitly request a one-time, no-charge extension to your current Form I-600A approval. You must submit an updated or amended home study with original signatures and any other supporting documentation of any changes in your household. Your home study update or amendment must address each issue discussed in the Initial Evidence, Home Study section of these instructions. Your home study must also address any changes to Form I-600A answers and must say whether approval is still recommended.
To find the most current mailing addresses for the NBC and USCIS international offices, visit www.uscis.gov/adoption and view the "Field Office Locator" or USCIS Adoptions Contact Information.
Requesting a Change of Country
If USCIS sent the approved Form I-600A to the U.S. Department of State National Visa Center for a particular country, but you now wish to adopt a child from a different country, you may make one request, without fee, to have a new approval notice sent to the U.S. Department of State National Visa Center for the new country. If your Form I-600A was approved domestically, you must submit a written request to the NBC. If your Form I-600A was approved abroad, you must submit a written request to the USCIS international office that approved your original Form I-600A. You may also need to submit an updated or amended home study with original signatures that addresses the change in country, whether the home study preparer recommends approval of the change, and any other changes since your Form I-600A was approved.
If you have already received one no-fee change of country, then you must submit a properly completed Form I-824, Application for Action on Approved Petition or Application, with the correct fee to obtain any additional change of country. (See the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/I-824 for more information.) You may also need to submit an updated or amended home study with original signatures that addresses the change in country, whether the home study preparer recommends approval of the change, and any other changes since your Form I-600A was approved.
Filing a Second Form I-600A for UAA-Grandfathered Applications
If you previously extended your UAA-grandfathered Form I-600A approval, USCIS will allow you to file a second UAA-grandfathered Form I-600A application (with fee), and its timely one-time extension, if you:
However, if your originally extended UAA-grandfathered Form I-600A approval expires before you file a second Form I-600A application, then your second Form I-600A application will not be UAA grandfathered and must comply with the UAA requirements.
What Should You Do After Locating or Identifying a Child or Children?
Once approved, a Form I-600A is valid for 18 months. When you have located and/or identified a child for adoption, you must also file a Form I-600 petition on the child's behalf. You do not need to pay a new fee with your Form I-600 if you file it while your Form I-600A approval is still valid or your Form I-600A is still pending.
If your home study approves you for more than one child, you may file a Form I-600 for each of the additional children to the maximum number reflected in your Form I-600A approval notice. If the children are birth siblings, no additional filing fee is required. However, if the children are not birth siblings, an additional filing fee is required for each Form I-600 beyond the initial Form I-600 filing.
You must submit a fee of $720 when filing a Form I-600. However, a fee is not required for Form I-600 if you filed Form I-600A for advance processing and it was approved (or an extension approved) within the previous 18 months, or is still pending.
Form I-600 must be accompanied by all the evidence required by the instructions of that form, except when the evidence was provided previously with Form I-600A.
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Page 7, Accommodations for Individuals With Disabilities and Impairments
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USCIS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and impairments that will help them fully participate in USCIS programs and benefits.
Reasonable accommodations vary with each disability or impairment. They may involve modifications to practices or procedures. There are various types of reasonable accommodations that may be offered. Examples include:
1. If you are unable to use your hands, you may be permitted to take the test orally rather than in writing;
2. If you are hearing-impaired, you may be provided with a sign-language interpreter at an interview or other application related appointment; or
3. For those unable to travel to a designated USCIS location for an interview, you may be visited at your home or a hospital.
If you believe that you need USCIS to accommodate your disability and/or impairment, check the "Yes" box and then check any applicable box in Block III that describes the nature of your disability(ies) and/or impairment(s). Also, write the type(s) of accommodation(s) you are requesting on the line(s) provided. If you are requesting a sign-language interpreter, be sure to indicate for which language. If you require more space to provide additional information within this application, please provide the information on a separate sheet of paper, and attach it to the Form I-600A application.
NOTE: All domestic USCIS facilities meet the Accessibility Guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, so you do not need to contact USCIS to request an accommodation for physical access to a domestic USCIS office. However, in Block III of the form, you can indicate whether you use a wheelchair. This will allow USCIS to better prepare for your visit and have a wheelchair accessible interview room available for you once you enter the facility.
USCIS considers requests for reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case basis and will use its best efforts to reasonably accommodate all applicants with disabilities or impairments. Qualified individuals will not be excluded from the participation in, or be denied the benefits of, USCIS's programs solely on the basis of their disability(ies) or impairment(s). Requesting and/or receiving an accommodation will not affect your eligibility for a USCIS benefit.
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Page 12, Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments
USCIS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and/or impairments that will help them fully participate in USCIS programs and benefits.
Reasonable accommodations vary with each disability and/or impairment. They may involve modifications to practices or procedures. There are various types of reasonable accommodations that USCIS may offer. Examples include but are not limited to:
If you believe that you need USCIS to accommodate your disability and/or impairment, select "Yes" and then any applicable box in Part 4. that describes the nature of your disabilities and/or impairments. Also, describe the types of accommodations you are requesting on the lines provided. If you are requesting a sign-language interpreter, indicate for which language.
NOTE: All domestic USCIS facilities meet the Accessibility Guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, so you do not need to contact USCIS to request an accommodation for physical access to a domestic USCIS office. However, in Part 4. of this application, you can indicate whether you use a wheelchair. This will allow USCIS to better prepare for your visit.
USCIS considers requests for reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case basis, and we will make our best efforts to reasonably accommodate your disabilities and/or impairments. USCIS will not exclude you from participating in USCIS programs or deny your application because of your disabilities and/or impairments. Requesting and/or receiving an accommodation will not affect your eligibility for any USCIS benefits.
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Page 7, USCIS Forms and Information
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To ensure you are using the latest version of this form, visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov where you can obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have internet access, you may order USCIS forms by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-870-3676. You may also obtain forms and information by telephoning our USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833.
As an alternative to waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can now schedule an appointment through the USCIS Internet-based system, InfoPass. To access the system, visit the USCIS Web site. Use the InfoPass appointment scheduler and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. InfoPass generates an electronic appointment notice that appears on the screen. |
Page 12, USCIS Forms and Information
To ensure you are using the latest version of this application, visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov where you can obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have Internet access, you may order USCIS forms by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-870-3676. You may also obtain forms and information by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Instead of waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can now schedule an appointment through the USCIS Internet-based system, InfoPass at infopass.uscis.gov/. Use the InfoPass appointment scheduler and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. InfoPass generates an electronic appointment notice that appears on the screen.
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Page 7, Penalties |
If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form I-600A, we will deny your Form I-600A and may deny any other immigration benefit.
In addition, you will face severe penalties provided by law and may be subject to criminal prosecution.
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Page 13, Penalties
If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form I-600A, we will deny your Form I-600A and may deny any USCIS benefit you request.
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Page 8, USCIS Privacy Act Statement |
Authority: 8 CFR 204.3 authorizes USCIS to collect the information and the associated evidence requested on this form.
Purpose: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this form is to adjudicate the qualifications of the applicant(s) as prospective adoptive parents of alien children. Filing this form generally accelerates the qualifications processing of the prospective adoptive parent petitioner(s).
Disclosure: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in denial of your form.
Routine Uses: The information you provide on this form may be shared with other Federal, State, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations following approved routine uses described in the associated published system of records notices [DHS-USCIS-005 -Inter-Country Adoptions Security and DHS-USCIS-001 -Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System of Records, which can be found at www.dhs.gov/privacy]. The information may also be made available, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security.
Notice to Household Members: You are not the "applicant" who is filing Form I-600A. As a member of the applicant's household, however, information about you may be relevant to the adjudication of the applicant's Form I-600A. Under 8 CFR Part 103.2(b)(16), the applicant is entitled to review any information that may be used as evidence supporting a denial of Form I-600A. By signing the Form I-600AIForm I-600, Supplement 1, Listing of Adult Member of the Household, you are providing your consent to permit USCIS to disclose to the applicant and adoption service provider, if applicable, information that USCIS may obtain about you that is relevant to the adjudication of the applicant's Form I-600A, even if the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a might otherwise prevent disclosure of the information to the petitioner.
Privacy Act Waiver: Apart from the routine uses and information related to adult members of the prospective adoptive parent's household noted above, USCIS may not disclose or give access to any information or record relating to any applicant, spouse, (if applicable), or adult member of the household who has filed Form I-600A to any individual or entity other than that person, including but not limited to an accredited agency, temporarily accredited agency, approved person, exempted provider, supervised provider, or other adoption service provider, unless written consent is given, as provided by the Privacy Act, 5 U.S. C. 552a. |
Page 13, USCIS Privacy Act Statement
AUTHORITY: The information requested on this application and the associated evidence, is collected under Section 101(b)(1)(F) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) [8 USC 1101], 8 CFR 204.3, and 8 CFR 204.311.
PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this form is to determine if you are suitable and eligible to adopt an orphan. Filing this form allows USCIS to make an initial determination on your suitability and eligibility before you identify or adopt an orphan. DHS will use the information you provide to grant or deny your application.
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision in your case or result in denial of your application.
ROUTINE USES: DHS may share the information you provide on this form with other Federal, State, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations following approved routine uses described in the associated published system of records notices [DHS/USCIS-005 - Inter-Country Adoptions Security and DHS-USCIS-001 - Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System of Records, which can be found at www.dhs.gov/privacy]. The information may also be shared, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security.
NOTICE TO ADULT MEMBERS OF THE HOUSEHOLD: You are not the applicant who is filing Form I-600A. As an adult member of the applicant's household, however, information about you may be relevant to the adjudication of the applicant's Form I-600A. Under 8 CFR 103.2(b)(16), the applicant is entitled to review any information that may be used as evidence supporting a denial of Form I-600A. By signing the Form I-600A/Form I-600, Supplement 1, you are providing your consent to permit USCIS to disclose to the applicant and adoption service provider, if applicable, information that USCIS may obtain about you that is relevant to the adjudication of the applicant's Form I-600A, even if the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a, might otherwise prevent disclosure of the information to the applicant.
PRIVACY ACT WAIVER: Except as permitted by the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. 552a, applicable routine uses, and information related to adult members of your household as noted above, USCIS may not disclose or give access to any information or record relating to any applicant, spouse (if married), or adult member of your household to any individual or entity other than that person, including but not limited to an accredited agency, approved person, exempted provider, supervised provider, or other adoption service provider, unless you give written consent, as provided by the Privacy Act. |
Page 8, Paperwork Reduction Act |
An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions and completing and submitting the form. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Regulatory Coordination Division, Office of Policy and Strategy, 20 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20529-2140. OMB No. 1615-0028. Do not mail your completed Form I-600A to this address.
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Page 13, Paperwork Reduction Act
An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 45 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation and information, completing and submitting the application, preparing statement, attaching necessary documentation, and submitting the application. The collection of biometrics is estimated to require 1 hour and 10 minutes. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Regulatory Coordination Division, Office of Policy and Strategy, 20 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20529-2140; OMB No. 1615-0028. Do not mail your completed Form I-600A to this address.
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| File Type | application/vnd.openxmlformats-officedocument.wordprocessingml.document |
| Author | Post, Elizabeth A |
| File Modified | 0000-00-00 |
| File Created | 2021-01-27 |