Adoption Process in Nepal

Legal Framework for Adoption

Adoption in Nepal is governed by:
✔ Civil Code, 2074 (2017) – Sections 168-184
✔ Children’s Act, 2075 (2018)
✔ Intercountry Adoption Rules, 2064 (2008)

Who Can Adopt?

Eligibility Criteria

For Nepali Citizens	For Foreign Nationals
Minimum 30 years age	Minimum 30 years age
At least 25 years older than child	Married couples only
No biological child (preference)	Home country approval required
Financial stability proof	2+ years marriage duration

Types of Adoption

1. Domestic Adoption

Between Nepali citizens
Processed through District Court

2. Intercountry Adoption

For foreign nationals
Managed by Ministry of Women, Children & Senior Citizens (MoWCSC)

Step-by-Step Adoption Process

For Nepali Adoptive Parents

Identify Child (through orphanages/relatives)
File Petition at District Court
Home Study Report by social worker
Court Hearing & Decision (within 60 days)
Registration at Local Registrar Office

For Foreign Adoptive Parents

Choose Authorized Agency (from approved list)
Submit Dossier to MoWCSC
Child Matching (3-6 months wait)
Nepal Court Approval
Immigration Process (visa & citizenship)

Required Documents

Common Requirements

Citizenship copies (adopters)
Marriage certificate (if married)
Medical fitness certificate
Police clearance report
Financial status proof

Additional for Foreigners

✔ Home study report from origin country
✔ Government approval letter
✔ Adoption agency contract

Adoption Costs in Nepal

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (USD)
Agency Fees	5,000-10,000
Legal Fees	1,000-3,000
Orphanage Donation	3,000-5,000
Government Fees	500-1,000

Post-Adoption Requirements

For Domestic Adoption

✔ Update child’s citizenship documents
✔ Inform local ward office

For Intercountry Adoption

✔ Annual progress reports for 3 years
✔ Citizenship process in adoptive country
✔ Preservation of cultural identity

FAQs About Adoption in Nepal

1. Can single parents adopt?

→ Yes, but only Nepali citizens (foreigners must be married couples)

2. What’s the maximum age for adopted children?

→ 16 years (except relative adoptions)

3. How long does the process take?

→ 6-18 months depending on case complexity

4. Can adoptive parents choose gender?

→ No, except in special medical/religious cases

5. Are same-sex couples allowed to adopt?

→ No, Nepali law doesn’t recognize same-sex adoption

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge	Solution
Lengthy process	Hire experienced adoption lawyer
Documentation	Use authorized agencies
Cultural barriers	Pre-adoption counseling
Fraud risks	Verify orphanage credentials

Pro Tips for Prospective Parents

✔ Start with government-approved agencies
✔ Maintain detailed documentation
✔ Prepare for cultural transition (for intercountry)
✔ Join adoption support groups

Need Help? Contact:

Ministry of Women, Children & Senior Citizens: ☎ 01-4200738
Central Child Welfare Board: ☎ 01-4272760

💡 Give a child a loving home through proper legal channels! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦