A Ukrainian child can not be adopted unless that child meets specific requirements and is listed on the database of adoptable children that are available for intercountry adoption. This data base is maintained by the central adoption authority in the Ukraine, the SDAPRC.
The child must also meet the U.S. definition of an orphan before that child can be adopted.
The SDAPRC will help you identify and be matched with a child. If you are approved to adopt, you will recieve an appointment to visit the SDAPRC where the officals will show you information about orphans who are eligible for intercountry adoption. You will also be issued a letter of referral that will allow you to visit an orphange to meet the child and check medical records.
As of December 1, 2008, the SDAPRC will only allow 3 appointments to each adoptive family to view files. If you have not selected a child by the third appointment your dossier will be immediately returned. You will then need to submit a notarized statement requesting another appointment with your dossier to the SDAPRC and they have 10 business days to respond. The SDAPRC will also limit the number of adoption referrals issued to each family to 2.
Updated: December 2008
SOURCE: Office of Children's Issues, United States Department of State Web site
