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GUATEMALA ADOPTION PROGRAM  

Our Guatemala program is presently on hold due to the many changes occurring with the implementation of the Hague Treaty. 

Adoption Journeys works with families from all over the United States who wish to adopt from Guatemala.  We are pleased to place children with both married couples and single parents. 

We do not currently have a waiting list for the referral of healthy newborn Guatemalan infants for adoption. Prospective  parents who are open to the adoption of an infant of either gender can look forward to brief waiting times for referrals after submission of their paperwork. Families can expect to bring home an infant between 8 to 12 months old.

Much like in the United States, the majority of Guatemalan adoptions are private matters handled by attorneys.  Adoption journeys is pleased to be working with several reputable adoption attorneys who process our Guatemalan adoptions with care and efficiency.

The children who are available for adoption reside with loving foster families.  After receiving a referral, prospective parents are welcome to visit and spend time with their child in Guatemala, and  meet the foster families who are caring for them.  The length of stay  in Guatemala and/or the choice to visit is a personal one for each family.  Adoption Journeys will support each family's choice regarding the option to visit.

Following acceptance of your referral, you will receive updated photographs, as well as,  medical and developmental information regarding your child.

Stages of the Guatemalan Adoption Process :

Stage I - Meeting the Paper Chase Requirement

Prospective adoptive parents are required to complete a home study conducted by a social worker, who is employed or contracts with a  licensed adoption agency in their state of residence..  In addition, parents must  file the I600A application form with USCIS, get fingerprinted, and prepare their dossier.  Adoption Journeys staff works with and supports families during this phase.

Stage II of the Guatemalan Adoption – The Adoption Process

When the dossier is completed, and thoroughly reviewed by agency staff, the dossier will be  forwarded to a Guatemalan adoption attorney who will coordinate the process in Guatemala.  A referral of a child may be presented to our families prior to sending the dossier to Guatemala, or soon thereafter.

Families working with Adoption Journeys are encouraged to consult with a pediatrician knowledgeable in International medicine prior to accepting the referral of a child.  After acceptance of the child referred, the parents will execute a power of attorney which gives the lawyer in Guatemala authority to act on their behalf to complete the adoption.  The process now officially begins for the adoption of your child.

While Families are Waiting the Adoption Process in Guatemala will Proceed with: 

Dossier Translation, Family Court Approval, DNA testing, PGN Approval, Adoption Finalization, Issuance of a New Birth Certificate and Passport for the baby, Submission of documents to U.S. Embassy for pink slip, Medical Exam from U.S. Embassy Doctor, Embassy Interview with Family and finally; Travel Home!

Your Child's Country of Origin:

Guatemala is the northern most country in Central America.  It is a relatively small country covering 42,355 square miles. The landscapes are extremely diverse – combining steamy tropical rainforests and  beautiful beaches, in addition to majestic mountain ranges strewn with active and inactive volcanoes.

Guatemala shares its northern border with Mexico, Belize is on the eastern side and  both Honduras and El Salvador on the south. The Pacific Ocean and its black sand beaches stretch along the west coast and to the east there is access to the Caribbean Sea.

Guatemalans are unique. The kind and loving spirit of the people will touch your hearts. Over 55% of the population is of  Mayan Indian descent. The Maya have held onto their customs and proudly celebrate their traditions through everyday dress, music and dance. The other major portion of Guatemala's population are descendants of Spanish and Europeans who settled their in the early 1500's. They brought their religious beliefs, architectural style and social hierarchy with them.

We at Adoption Journeys have experienced the genuine care and loving concern of the Guatemalan people for their children. They truly wish the best for the children who are adopted internationally, and want them to have the opportunity to experience life in a safe, loving family.

Travel Tips:

Airlines:   American, Continental, Delta, and United.

Arrival:    by Air to Guatemala City.

Climate:  Guatemala City and Antigua temperatures range from 70 - 80 degrees F year round.

Currency: Quetzal
Value ranges from 7 to 8 Quetzales for $1 US

Credit Cards: Visa is most widely accepted at upscale hotels & restaurants.

Exchange:     We recommend bringing US Dollars in Cash and Travelers Checks

Telephone:    Calling from the United States you must dial -
        011          +       502      +       xxxx-xxxx
Country Code + Area Code + 8 digit phone number

E-Mail:         E-mail is available in all major hotels, internet cafes 

Attire:          Casual attire is acceptable, no shorts.

Festivals:    Guatemala is a country of fiestas and religious holidays / year

                                                                                                                                               Other Informational Websites:

http://www.guatadopt.com/documents/travelguide.pdf

http;//www.asststork.com/pages/guatconsul.html

 


 

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4065 E. Roberts Place Tucson, AZ 85711 * Phone: 520.327.0899