International Adoption Dossier Preparation Services
Adopting from a foreign country can be a complicated and time consuming process. Just when you have finished the home study and think you are ready to go, comes the dossier. Completing an adoption can be an overwhelming process as it requires dealing with many different layers of government. Even seasoned adoptive parents who have the time and the fortitude can experience stress at the hassles that completing a dossier can require.
ARS can help with the dossier process. We understand that every adoption is different and that each country and agency has specific requirements. We are skilled in finding the answers you need, and in locating the necessary documents needed to complete your family's dossier.
ARS currently offers two levels of Dossier preparation Services:
Full Dossier Service:
ARS’ dossier mission is to prepare your dossier as quickly, and efficiently as possible. We do the work so that you do not have to. In compiling your dossier, our services include:
- Establish with your placement agency the dossier requirements for the country and region that you wish to adopt from;
- Coordinate with international adoption and home study agencies as needed to ensure international adoption dossier is completed correctly;
- Obtain and process vital records and prepare personal and government documents; If your signature is needed we get this from you;
- Obtain state certification and apostilles for dossier.
- Provide instructions for obtaining authentication from country embassies and consulates
- Provide education and support during the completion of your dossier;
- Act as the Notary Public for Pennsylvania issued documents;
- Provide instructions for obtaining authentication from country embassies and consulates. In some cases and for a small courier fee, we can obtain these for you.
Our efficiency and expertise allows you to relax and focus on what is important to you, which is the preparation to welcome your child. Before we release any dossier, our dossier team reviews your dossier thoroughly, to ensure that it has been complied correctly and that there are no mistakes. We want the presentation of your dossier to be successful and timely. Each family receives a completed and official dossier as well as a copy for their records. Additional copies can be provided at for a small copying fee.
Dossier Coaching:
Sometimes an adopting family has the time and fortitude to complete their own dossier, but requires technical information regarding: how and where to begin, how to organize, how to locate documents and how to work with the many people and bodies involved. For these families, ARS can provide individual coaching services, while the family prepares their dossier. Coaching services include:
- Reviewing the requirements of your particular dossier with you and explaining the process;
- Helping you to locate, understand and obtain needed vital records;
- Helping you to obtain needed documents from your homestudy and placement agencies;
- Establishing a FEDEX, UPS or DHL account;
- Coaching with how to Obtain notarization, certification and appostille for the dossier with the appropriate Secretary of State and in some cases embassy;
- Review of the dossier when completed.
- ARS works with families across the United States.
Time Line:
Typically a dossier takes about in 2-3 months to complete, however the amount and complexity of government agencies and the changing climate of adoption can delay the process. We are ARS keep you informed with the stats of your dossier, any delays and the steps that we are taking to keep the process moving.
Fees
ARS’ fees are determined by each country's dossier requirements, the number of documents required, and the estimated average amount of time needed to complete the entire dossier. Before the work begins, families are provided with the required fees in writing.
For information on this important service, contact the agency at 717-227-9560 or at info@adoption-related-services.org
