Adoption Requirements in Georgia
If you want to adopt in Georgia, there are specific adoption requirements you’ll need to meet before you can grow your family. These requirements help ensure a safe, stable, and loving home for every child placed through adoption.
When you meet Georgia’s requirements for adopting a child — and work with a licensed adoption agency like ours — you can confidently begin your journey to parenthood.
Contact us online today to speak with an adoption specialist and get personalized help meeting the requirements for adoption in your state.
Adoption Requirements in Georgia
To adopt a child in Georgia, you must meet state-mandated requirements and agency-specific standards if you choose to work with one. These requirements help ensure every child is placed in a safe, stable, and loving home.
The primary adoption requirements in Georgia revolve around:
Each of these requirements plays an essential role in ensuring a safe and successful adoption — and we’ll walk you through each one below:
What Are the Adoption Marriage Requirements in Georgia?
You do not have to be married to adopt in Georgia. Both single and married individuals may adopt, but if you’re married, you must adopt jointly with your spouse. Proof of a stable, supportive relationship will be evaluated as part of the home study.
What Are the Age Requirements for Adoption in Georgia?
Georgia law requires adoptive parents to be at least:
- 21 years old, or
- Married and living with their spouse, regardless of age.
Many agencies, including ours, may also set their own adoption age requirements, which typically range from 25 to 50, depending on the program.
What Are the Residency Requirements for Adopting a Child in Georgia?
You do not need to be a Georgia resident to adopt in the state, but many local courts and agencies do give preference to residents in some situations. Our agency is licensed to work with families across Georgia and can help you meet all local and legal standards.
What Are the Financial Requirements for Adoption in Georgia?
You don’t have to be wealthy to adopt. However, you must prove you can provide a stable financial environment for a child. This includes:
What Are the Adoption Health Requirements in Georgia?
Adoptive parents must be in good physical and mental health. You’ll typically need a medical statement from a doctor during the home study process.
Many people also ask if there is a BMI requirement for adoption. There is no set BMI requirement under Georgia law, but extreme health concerns that could impact your ability to parent may be reviewed.
Is a Home Study Required for Private Adoption in Georgia?
Yes — a home study is required for private adoption in Georgia. This comprehensive process includes:
- Criminal background checks
- Home inspections
- Personal interviews
- Medical evaluations
- Financial documentation
Be aware that felony convictions — especially those involving child abuse or domestic violence — may disqualify you.
Why Are There Adoption Requirements in Georgia?
Adoption requirements aren’t barriers — they’re safeguards. These standards are designed to protect children and ensure they are placed in homes that are loving, prepared, and stable.
At American Adoptions, we go a step further.
In addition to state laws, we have our own adoption requirements designed to set families up for success. Here’s what we look for:
We’ve helped over 13,000 families grow, and our comprehensive support ensures every parent is fully prepared.
Get the Support You Deserve
Understanding and meeting adoption requirements in Georgia is easier when you have a team walking beside you. We’ll help you navigate every step — from paperwork and home studies to matching and finalization.
You deserve honest timelines, transparent fees, and full support throughout your adoption journey.
Fill out our online contact form today to get started with an agency that’s helped thousands of families grow with confidence.
Adoption Requirements in Georgia [FAQ]
What are the rules for adoption in Georgia?
To adopt in Georgia, you must:
- Be at least 21 (or married)
- Be financially and emotionally stable
- Complete a background check and home study
- Be in good health
- Meet agency-specific requirements
How to adopt a baby in Georgia for free?
Most private domestic adoptions involve costs. However, adopting from the foster care system in Georgia is often free or low-cost. Licensed foster-to-adopt parents may even receive financial assistance.
Do you get a monthly check when you adopt a child in Georgia?
If you adopt from foster care, you may receive a monthly adoption assistance payment, depending on the child’s needs and your income. This does not typically apply to private domestic adoptions.
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