Adopting a child internationally can enrich your life and bless you in ways you've never before experienced. Russia is the largest country in the world covering almost twice the area of Canada, and its beauty is as diverse as the various climate and geographic regions this vast country encompasses.

Thoughtful consideration and prayer are a necessity when considering adopting internationally. You can expect to experience emotional ups and downs as you await the arrival of your child, wondering how well they’ve been cared for, when will the documents be finalized, or waiting for your travel visa. The process requires patience but is ultimately worthwhile and highly rewarding.

There are approximately 200,000 children available for adoption in Russia; age ranges span from infants through to 18 years. The children are predominantly from 3 major centers in Russia: Vladivostok, Perm and Kostroma and there are often more boys available for adoption than girls. The children live in orphanages and are generally well cared for. While the majority of children from Russia are Caucasian, the vastness of the country, and its regions, provide opportunities for cultural and ethnic diversity.

We strongly recommend you conduct your own research when considering an international adoption. Once you’ve decided on the country of origin, complete the Alberta Human Services' International Adoption Registration form which is available on their website at www.child.gov.ab.ca before proceeding.

Here is a sample list of other forms and applications you will need as is outlined on your checklist:

• International adoption course through Christian Adoption Services ($250 Cdn)
• Agency Application fee ($350 Cdn)
• Police checks/References/Intervention Checks
• Medical check up/report with a copy of your doctor’s medical license attached
• Complete Psychological Assessment
• Canadian passports
• Originals of Birth and Marriage Certificates
• Home study through Christian Adoption Services ($2,500 Cdn + mileage + travel time)
• Translation costs ($600-$1000 Cdn)
• Immigration documents “Child yet to be named”
• Verification Seals, Russian Embassy, courier costs
• Orphanage fees/donations
• Travel Costs

You must choose a coordinator: Our families have worked with CHOC www.chocadoption.com and Adoption Horizons www.adoptionhorizons.com.   Please contact their offices for an updated list of dossier requirements.

Once your Home Study is completed, and your documents are in Russia, it will take approximately 9-12 months to receive a proposal of a child. The wait time for infants younger than 12 months old is slightly longer. Two trips are required to Russia, with approximately 8-10 weeks between trips. Post placement reports are completed by your Social Worker at 4 months, 10 months, 22 months, and 34 months after the adoption date. The approximate cost to complete an adoption from Russia is $30,000 to $40,000 CAD. This includes choosing the coordinator in the region chosen and the required donations to the orphanage in Russia. Please refer to Choices website to view the fee schedule for a complete breakdown of fees.

Currently, Russia requires couples to be married. Common-law couples cannot adopt, however single men and women may apply. There is no restriction on the number of years a couple must have been married. Likewise, there is no upper age limit for applicants who wish to adopt from Russia.

For more information on adoptions from Russia and the services Christian Adoption Services provides, please contact our office at our Toll Free number 1-877-256-3224