doption-based immigration is a specialized area of law designed to help U.S. citizens bring their adopted children to the United States. These cases often involve navigating complex legal frameworks, including U.S. immigration law, state adoption laws, and the legal requirements of the child’s home country.

There are two primary visa options for adoption:

• IR-3 Visa – For children adopted abroad by both U.S. citizen parents in a country that is a party to the Hague Adoption Convention (or meets other U.S. requirements), and where the child has been seen in person by the adoptive parents.

• IR-4 Visa – For children who will be adopted in the United States, or when only one parent has seen the child prior to adoption overseas, or if the adoption is finalized after the child enters the U.S.

Key Requirements:

• The adoptive parent(s) must be U.S. citizens.

• The child must meet the definition of an “orphan” under U.S. immigration law or be adopted through the Hague Convention process.

• The legal adoption must comply with both U.S. law and the child’s country of origin.

• The child must be under 16 at the time of the adoption (or under 18 if part of a sibling group being adopted together).

Adoption cases are highly scrutinized by USCIS and often involve coordination with U.S. embassies, the Department of State, and adoption agencies. Common issues include delays due to incomplete documentation, differing definitions of legal custody between countries, and home study requirements.

Our legal team has extensive experience handling these cases and a strong track record of successfully refiling and securing approvals for adoption petitions previously denied by USCIS. We provide strategic guidance and full support throughout the process—helping families avoid delays, meet all legal requirements, and bring their children home with confidence.