About Adoption Law in Kyiv, Ukraine
The process of adoption in Kyiv, Ukraine is governed by the Family Code of Ukraine, specifically, articles 208 to 215. Adoption in Ukraine is open to both nationals and foreigners, although the government gives priority to Ukrainian citizens. All adoptions, regardless of the nationality of the prospective parents, must be approved by the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Adoption involves complex bureaucratic procedures, including considerable paperwork and negotiations with governmental bodies. The complexity is often compounded by language barriers, especially for foreign applicants. Missing a deadline, misunderstanding a process or misfiling a document could lead to unnecessary delays or even unsuccessful adoption. Therefore, legal assistance is highly recommended to help navigate this process effectively.
Local Laws Overview
Under Ukrainian law, children eligible for adoption are usually orphans or children deprived of parental care. Foreign applicants must first be approved by the adoptive country's authorities and then by the Central Adoption Authority in Ukraine. The waiting period to adopt often depends on the child's age with younger children often having longer wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can adopt a child in Kyiv, Ukraine?
Ukrainian citizens, foreign residents, or those with refugee status can adopt. There is no marital status or gender restriction. However, age difference between the adoptee and prospective adoptive parents should be at least 15 years.
What is the minimum age for the child to be adopted?
The child should be at least five years old unless the child has special needs, siblings, or the adoptive parent is a relative of the child.
Do prospective adoptive parents need to travel to Ukraine?
Yes, Ukraine's law requires all prospective adoptive parents to travel to Ukraine to meet the child, attend an interview with a government official, and be present at court hearings to finalise the adoption.
Can a single person adopt a child in Ukraine?
Yes, Ukrainian law allows single individuals to adopt irrespective of their sexual orientation or marital status.
How long does the adoption process take?
Typically, it takes between 3 to 12 months, but may vary depending on different factors such as the child’s age, health condition, and the nationality of the adoptive parents.
Additional Resources
In addition to legal professionals, there are several governmental and non-governmental organizations that offer support and advice. They include: Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, Ukraine's Ombudsman for Children's Rights, and various charity organizations supporting orphan children, which can provide up-to-date and comprehensive advice.
Next Steps
When ready to embark on the adoption process, the first step is to contact a legal professional who is familiar with Ukrainian adoption law. They will guide you through the complex process, provide essential legal advice and ensure your filing and documentation are in compliance with Ukrainian law. It is recommended to start the process early and be prepared for possible delays.
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