The length of time varies based on the type of adoption and any adoption preferences, such as the child’s age, which can impact how long you’re on a waitlist. For instance, some adoptive parents wait for two or more years before being matched with a healthy infant.

The adoption process typically occurs in two stages before it’s finalized — the pre-placement and placement periods.

Pre-placement period

The pre-placement period involves ensuring you meet the requirements to adopt. It can take from six months to over a year to finish.

Placement periods

During the placement period, you’ll typically receive monthly (or weekly) visits with your social worker or caseworker, you, and the child. These visits ensure everyone involved is adjusting to the change and that the child is being cared for appropriately. The length of the placement period varies per state but usually is at least six months long.

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