Adoption by a GLBT Parent
Like all Americans considering adoption, gay and lesbian individuals (GLBT) and same-sex couples must comply with three sets of laws in order to adopt: U.S. federal law, the laws of the child's country of origin, and the laws of your home U.S. state.
U.S. federal law does not prohibit gay and lesbian Americans or same-sex couples from being an adoptive parent. However, some countries do forbid gay and lesbian individuals, as well as same-sex couples, from adopting. This is also true of some U.S. states. When deciding to pursue intercountry adoption, do your research. Find out if your state allows GLBT adoption. In addition, learn which countries permit GLBT adoption, and which countries do not.
If a country of origin has notified the Department of its eligibility requirements, then such eligibility requirements may be included in the Country Information section of our website. We also recommend viewing the section on U.S. state laws maintained by the Child Welfare Information Gateway.
Helpful Links
- Child Welfare Information Gateway - Adoption by Gay and Lesbian Families
- Human Rights Campaign Foundation - Gay Parenting and Adoption
- National Gay and Lesbian Task Force - Map of Adoption Laws in the United States
NOTE: Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
