Welcome Home—Now What?
The international adoption process doesn't end when you get home. You may be thinking, "No more paperwork, right?" Wrong. While we understand the last thing on your mind is more paperwork, there are several crucial documents specific to citizenship that you must secure for your child.
Understanding Your Child’s Visa Status
Your child would have entered the US on one of the following four adoption-related immigrant visas: IH-3, IH-4, IR-3, IR-4. The ‘H’ visas are issued in Hague cases, and the ‘R’ visas are issued in non-Hague cases. Whether your child’s visa is designated 3 or 4 depends upon the adoption finalization process and if the country program finalized the adoption in-country or if you were granted legal guardianship. Guardianship cases will have the 4 designation, while adoptions finalized in-country, prior to arrival in the US will have the 3 designation.
Children traveling on an IH-3 or IR-3 visa will automatically become a US citizen upon arrival to the United States as soon as they are through the USCIS process at the airport. You will automatically receive your child’s Certificate of Citizenship in the months following your arrival home.
Children traveling on an IH-4 or IR-4 visa will become a Lawful Permanent Resident upon arrival to the United States. Following fulfillment of the sending country’s post-placement supervision requirements, you are then authorized to finalize your child’s adoption in the US courts. Upon adoption finalization, your child is a US citizen. However, in order to prove your child’s citizenship, it is imperative that you obtain your child’s Certificate of Citizenship (COC).
Obtaining the Certificate of Citizenship
If your adoptee traveled on an IH-4 or IR-4 visa, you must apply for their Certificate of Citizenship following adoption finalization by completing and submitting the N-600 application. The good news is that as of April 2024, there is no longer a fee to submit the N-600 application for international adoptees!
Missing Certificate of Citizenship?
If your child arrived on an IH-3/IR-3 visa but you never received the COC, contact USCIS at childcitizenact@uscis.dhs.gov to inquire.
US Passport vs. Certificate of Citizenship
A US passport is an important proof of identity and citizenship; however, it expires, it is not a permanent document. The Certificate of Citizenship is your adoptee’s lifelong proof of US citizenship.
Do You Need a US Birth Certificate?
Yes! Even if your child’s adoption was finalized abroad or arrived on an IH-3/IR-3 visa, a foreign birth certificate may not always be accepted by institutions like the DMV, colleges, and sports camps. Readopting or registering the adoption in your local court ensures you receive a state-issued birth certificate.
Advocating for Your Child’s Future
In the heart of every adoptive parent is the desire to provide the best for their child. This commitment involves navigating the maze of legalities with empathy and understanding. By educating oneself about documents like the COC, you’re not just adhering to legal formalities—you’re passionately advocating for your child’s rights and future. Ultimately, every step taken in this journey, every document filed, and every hour spent understanding the process affirm your love and dedication to your child’s well-being.
Concerns About Citizenship?
The National Council for Adoption has addressed concerns about adoptees' citizenship.
