Form I-800, Petition to Classify Convention Adoptee as an Immediate Relative, is used by U.S. citizens seeking to adopt a child habitually residing in a Convention country. The Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention) establishes international standards for intercountry adoptions.
Here are the general steps to file Form I-800:
Eligibility:
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements to file Form I-800. Generally, you must be a U.S. citizen, habitually reside in the United States, and the child must be habitually residing in a Hague Adoption Convention country.
Preparation:
- Gather all necessary documents, including:
- Completed Form I-800.
- A copy of your approval notice for the Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country.
- Supporting documents, such as proof of your U.S. citizenship, marriage certificate (if applicable), and other required evidence.
Filing Fee:
- Include the required filing fee with your Form I-800. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current fee amount and acceptable payment methods.
Mail the Package:
- Mail your completed Form I-800, supporting documents, and filing fee to the appropriate address provided in the form instructions. It is advisable to send the application via a trackable mailing service.
USCIS Processing:
- USCIS will review your petition and notify you of the decision. If approved, they will forward the case to the Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC).
NVC Processing:
- The NVC will process the case, assign a case number, and forward the case to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the child’s country.
Adoption Process Abroad:
- Work with the adoption service provider and authorities in the child’s country to complete the adoption process according to that country’s laws and regulations.
Immigrant Visa Application:
- Once the adoption is finalized, you can file the immigrant visa application for the child by submitting Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, and paying the appropriate fees.
Interview and Visa Issuance:
- The U.S. Embassy or Consulate will schedule an interview for the child. If the visa is approved, the child can travel to the United States to join your family.
It’s crucial to refer to the most recent version of Form I-800 and its instructions on the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney for the latest information and guidance tailored to your specific situation. Adoption processes can be complex, so professional advice and assistance can be valuable.
How to file Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country
Form I-800A, Application for Determination of Suitability to Adopt a Child from a Convention Country, is an essential step in the process of adopting a child from a Hague Adoption Convention country. This form is used to request approval from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to adopt a child from a Convention country. Here are the general steps to file Form I-800A:
Review Eligibility:
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for adopting a child from a Hague Adoption Convention country. This includes being a U.S. citizen, meeting age and health requirements, and meeting other suitability standards.
Complete Form I-800A:
- Fill out the most recent version of Form I-800A. You can find the form on the official USCIS website. Follow the instructions carefully, and provide accurate and complete information.
Gather Supporting Documents:
- Collect all necessary supporting documents. These may include proof of U.S. citizenship, marriage certificates, divorce decrees (if applicable), fingerprints, and other required evidence. Check the form instructions for the specific documents needed.
Submit Filing Fee:
- Include the required filing fee with your Form I-800A application. Verify the current fee amount on the USCIS website and ensure that your payment method is acceptable.
Mail the Package:
- Send your completed Form I-800A, along with the supporting documents and filing fee, to the address provided in the form instructions. Use a trackable mailing service to ensure delivery.
Biometrics Appointment:
- Once USCIS receives your application, they will schedule a biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment for you and any additional adult members of your household. Attend the appointment as scheduled.
Home Study:
- Work with a Hague-accredited adoption service provider to complete a home study. The home study assesses your suitability and ability to adopt and provides a detailed report.
USCIS Decision:
- USCIS will review your application, including the home study and biometrics, to determine your suitability to adopt. You will be notified of the decision in writing.
Extension or Appeal (if necessary):
- If your application is denied, you may be able to request an extension or appeal the decision. Follow the instructions provided in the denial notice for guidance.
Proceed with Adoption Process:
- If your Form I-800A is approved, you can then proceed with the adoption process in the Convention country of your choice.
It’s important to check the USCIS website or consult with an adoption professional for the most up-to-date information and guidance. The adoption process can be complex, and seeking advice from professionals can help ensure a smoother experience.
What are the Poverty Guidelines for Affidavit of Support
The poverty guidelines for the Affidavit of Support in the United States are set by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These guidelines are updated annually. It’s important to note that the figures may change, so it’s advisable to check the most recent guidelines on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or the HHS website.
For reference, the poverty guidelines are used to determine the minimum income requirements that sponsors must meet to demonstrate the ability to financially support the intending immigrants. The guidelines take into account the sponsor’s household size (including dependents) and the state in which they reside.
As of 2024, the HHS poverty guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C. were as follows:
- For a household size of one: $12,880
- For a household size of two: $17,420
- For a household size of three: $21,960
- For a household size of four: $26,500
Additional amounts are added for each additional household member.
Keep in mind that these figures are subject to change, and it’s crucial to consult the most recent guidelines when preparing an Affidavit of Support. The USCIS website typically provides the current poverty guidelines and any updates to the figures. Always ensure you are using the correct and most recent information when completing immigration forms.
