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Adoption Journeys | We Believe In The Miracle Of Adoption! | ||||
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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 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: QuetzalValue 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 - 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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GUATEMALA
Our
Guatemala program is presently on hold due to the many
changes occurring with the implementation of the Hague
Treaty. 
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.