How to adopt a child in India: Procedure and CARA Registration
Adopting a child in India is a highly structured process designed to ensure the child’s welfare, safety, and long-term stability. While the process may seem cumbersome, it is meant to protect both the child and the adoptive parents.
Adoption in India is regulated by the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and is overseen by the Central Adoption Resource Authority. All legal adoptions must go through CARA’s online system.
Procedure for adoption in India
- Online registration
Prospective adoptive parents must first register on CARA’s official portal. Basic details such as age, marital status, health, and income are submitted at this stage. - Home Study Report (HSR)
After registration, a Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) assigns a social worker to conduct a home study. This includes home visits, interviews, and verification of documents. The HSR assesses emotional readiness, financial stability, and living conditions. - Child referral
Once approved, parents are placed in a waiting list. When a child matching their preference becomes available, a referral is made through the portal along with the child’s medical and background details. - Acceptance of child
Parents must accept the referral within the given time. After acceptance, they can meet the child at the adoption agency. - Legal process
The adoption agency files a petition before the District Magistrate or designated authority. Once the adoption order is passed, the child legally becomes part of the adoptive family. - Post-adoption follow-up
For a few years after adoption, periodic follow-up reports are submitted to ensure the child’s well-being.
FAQs
1. Is CARA registration compulsory
Yes. Any legal adoption in India must be done through CARA.
2. How long does adoption take?
It can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, depending on preferences and availability.
3. Can NRIs or foreigners adopt from India?
Yes, but they must follow additional procedures under inter-country adoption rules.
4. Is adoption expensive?
No. Adoption is not a commercial process. Only minimal legal and documentation costs apply.
5. Can a biological child be adopted by relatives?
Yes, relative and step-parent adoptions are permitted under Indian law.
