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Family benefits

Have your eligibility for adoption assessed

Assessment of suitability as adoptive parents by the Youth Welfare Office; a prerequisite for the placement of an adopted child.

Processing: approx. 4 months
Success rate: 70.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Application to the Adoption Agency of the Youth Welfare Office

    Written application with a personal statement.

  2. 2

    Eligibility Check

    Interviews, home visits, police clearance certificate, medical certificate.

  3. 3

    Certificate of Eligibility and Inclusion on the List of Applicants

    If the evaluation is positive, the candidate will be added to the active applicant list.

Required documents

  • Extended Criminal Record CheckMandatory

    Proof of personal suitability.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 4 months

Official: max. approx. 6 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • The two partners did not openly discuss their differing views
  • • Lack of flexibility regarding the child's age and background

Common reasons for rejection

  • • The applicants' ages exceed the recommended age range
  • • Unstable living conditions or health limitations

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Couples or individuals who wish to adopt a child.

Income limit

The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 4 months

Success rate

approx. 70.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •The two partners did not openly discuss their differing views
  • •Lack of flexibility regarding the child's age and background

Common reasons for rejection

  • •The applicants' ages exceed the recommended age range
  • •Unstable living conditions or health limitations

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Read more