Frequently Asked Questions

Q:	What is La Vida International?
A:	La Vida (Spanish for "the life") is a non-profit, non-sectarian, private adoption agency licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania since 1988 We were founded by adoptive parents of 4 children who have personally shared the pain of infertility and the joys of adoption. We unite children with loving adoptive families in all 50 United States and we also assist U.S. citizens residing outside of the U.S. We work in partnership each year with hundreds of couples and singles to achieve the dream of building a family. La Vida believes that every child deserves a loving family and it is this belief which guides our work. Together we work with families to help one child at a time. Our philosophy is simple...to understand your needs by listening and to provide you with competent, compassionate and caring services. In addition to assisting children waiting for adoption, La Vida also helps the children who wait and those who will never be adopted. We provide financial assistance to humanitarian aid programs that ensure food, clothing, medical care and shelter to children in need. Our foremost commitment is to serve children and families with respect, care, compassion and excellence. Our knowledgeable staff will work in partnership with you to reach your dream. We take pride in working diligently each day to make the adoption process more understandable and manageable for each of our clients. La Vida will walk hand in hand with you every step of the way. Additionally, we will be there for you after the adoption, whether to provide support or to celebrate a joyous milestone in your child’s life.
Q:	*What makes La Vida different from other agencies?*
A:	There are many differences between agencies and your choice of an agency is a very important one. You will be working with your selected agency for over one year and above all you have to feel comfortable and confident that your agency will provide the best possible services for you. La Vida’s foundation is the desire to help children in need and to make what can feel like a long and arduous process as manageable as possible for those wanting to parent and help a child. We are dedicated to excellence and ethics in the services we provide to families; committed to educating and properly preparing parents; provide exceptional; open and flexible polices and services; believe in working in partnership with our clients; process your paperwork efficiently; and we provide complete dossier and travel related services. Our founders and Director are adoptive parents and have experienced first hand both the challenges and joys of adoption. Many of our current families are second and third adopters and their continued trust in us is our truest measure of our work.
Q:	How many children have you placed with single and married adoptive parents?
A:	Currently, La Vida works with approximately 500 families each year who are either just beginning, just finishing up an adoption or somewhere in between! La Vida has placed over 2,000 children with loving adoptive families since 1988. We currently send approximately 20 to 30 families each month to China.
Q:	I live in a state outside of your office area, can I work with you?
A:	Yes, we work with families residing in all 50 United States and in many countries throughout the world. Our process is structured in such a way that everything can be accomplished via telephone, fax, e-mail and U.S. mail. We have it down to an art and it works!
Q:	*Who comprises your staff?*
A:	Our staff is comprised of social workers, adoptive parents, adoption coordinators and administrative assistants. Our founders are adoptive parents and understand firsthand the pains of infertility and the joys of adoption. Our Director has worked professionally in the field of international adoption for many years and has also adopted 4 children from China. Our social workers are masters level professionals, have years of adoption experience and are well-versed on adoption procedures and policies.
Q:	*Would I have one contact person in your agency?*
A:	Since it is important for our staff to have a thorough knowledge of the adoption process, each of our staff is well versed in each of our country programs. It is also important that our staff understand all aspects of the adoption process to better serve our clients while staff may be out due to illness, holidays, etc. We have a team based approached to assisting families through the adoption process and your team will be comprised of individuals who specialize in certain areas and who will be more appropriate to answer a particular question. For the most part, you will speak to two to three individuals throughout most of your process.
Q:	*What provisions do you make to have someone knowledgeable available to answer questions after hours and on weekends?*
A:	Evening and weekend telephone or in-person appointments are available on an as needed basis.
Q:	*I am a U.S. citizen, but my spouse is not, can we adopt?*
A:	Yes, only one spouse must be a U.S. citizen.
Q:	*Do you have any restrictions for families who continue fertility treatments or simultaneously work with another adoption agency?*
A:	No, we do not. Most agencies have policies, which require you to withdraw or go on hold if you become pregnant or to discontinue fertility treatments in order to adopt. Many agencies prohibit families from simultaneously working with another agency. We have no such policies and we believe that pregnancy, adoption and fertility plans are best left to adopting families. If you adopt or give birth during the process the country of China does require a one year wait from birth or adoption to placement of a child from China.
Q:	*What role do you play in the completion of the home study?*
A:	For those parent(s) who reside in the state of Pennsylvania we can complete your home study. The agency will assist you through the home study process by supplying all necessary forms and paperwork and samples of how to complete each. We contract with social workers throughout the state of Pennsylvania who are experienced in completing adoption related home studies and will coordinate with you your home study visits. For families who live outside of the state of Pennsylvania, you may select an agency in your state to complete your home study and we will be happy to provide you with the names of agencies licensed in your state used by many La Vida adoptive families. If you already have a completed home study, we do accept home studies from other licensed agencies both in PA and in other states.
Q:	*If I live in PA and La Vida completes my home study how long will it take?*
A:	After we receive your application and supporting documents you will be assigned a social worker within 24 hours and he or she will contact you immediately. The visits will be arranged and the report written within approximately 30-45 days.
Q:	*What assistance do you provide in filing the the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Application?*
A:	La Vida will provide you with the application and instructions for completion, be available to answer any questions you have, file the application for you and monitor the progress of receiving your USCIS approval.
Q:	*What help do you provide in collecting the paperwork?*
A:	La Vida will hold your hand every step of the way through the collection and completion of your paperwork. We will provide you with information about where to obtain necessary documents, samples and forms for completion of all paperwork and will review your file and documents during the process. The staff at La Vida is well versed in the completion of paperwork for USCIS requirements, a home study and your country dossier (country application).
Q:	*What assistance do you provide in completing the dossier?*
A:	The agency will supply sample documents and detailed instructions for help in completing your dossier documents. Our staff is experienced in all facets of your dossier and will aid you in the successful completion of your dossier.
Q:	*What assistance do you provide in certifying and authenticating documents?*
A:	La Vida has a notary available for local families and we will certify and authenticate all documents for you. This service is a real time and headache saver for families.
Q:	*Do you help obtain parent and child visas?*
A:	Yes. The agency will supply the appropriate forms, samples and instructions and staff consultation for obtaining visas necessary during the process.
Q:	*Do you accept applications from non-traditional families?*
A:	We accept applications from single parents, divorced parents, and step families.
Q:	*Do you have any preferences or restrictions?*
A:	The agency’s requirement is that you receive an approved home study. The only preferences or restrictions are those required by the country from which you are adopting and not by the agency. Our initial application process allows us to screen for any country-specific requirements that may need to be discussed.
Q:	*Has the agency had any problems with clients and if so, how were they resolved?*
A:	Occasionally, a client has a problem or concern and we work together to resolve it to everyone’s satisfaction. Families are always encouraged to share what is feeling challenging to them. We work with each family individually to ensure that they feel their needs have been met.
Q:	*Do you provide post-placement, counseling, parenting training or other services over and above facilitating adoptions?*
A:	Yes, the agency offers post placement counseling and parenting training. Attendance at our Preparation for International Adoption training is mandatory for any family who lives in PA and is completing a home study with La Vida. An invitation to attend our international adoption workshop is extended to all families who adopt through La Vida. Every family with which we work is provided with the a comprehensive packet of training and preparation materials. Additionally we provide on-going referral to community resources, a published La Vida family directory, a quarterly newsletter, an annual Chinese/Vietnamese New Year Celebration and an Annual Family Picnic.
Q:	*May I have names of recent clients who have completed adoptions and those who are being processed to contact for references.*
A:	We make available to every interested family an extensive reference list of recent adopters.
Q:	*How can I get more information before making a decision?*
A:	We have comprehensive written materials to share information about the process and guide each family every step of the way. Our staff is always available to speak individually with anyone interested in adoption. Evening or weekend calls or visits may be arranged by appointment. The agency holds periodic information meetings in Pennsylvania and several other states. In addition, private day, weekend and evening appointments are also available for prospective adoptive parents to discuss the program and meet the staff.
Q:	*What are the advantages of an international adoption versus a domestic adoption?*
A:	The waiting time may be shorter, more predictable, the outcome more certain and the process may be less expensive. Adoption from the country of China, is finalized overseas and there is no need to worry that a birth parent will change his or her mind after you have received an adoptive placement. Additionally, the health risks of children adopted internationally may be less than some children adopted here in the United States.
Q:	*How do I compare agencies?*
A:	Choosing the right child-placing agency often feels like a daunting task! There are many differences between agencies and it is important to find an agency that you will work in partnership with you and assist you in an efficient, honest and ethical way. The interview of the agency should result in an overall level of confidence that the agency has the skills, knowledge, staff, support, experience, and working style that will be a good fit for you. This interview could be completed individually at the agency’s offices, by telephone, or as part of an informational meeting open to other families. Please click here to visit our "Choosing An Agency" page. You should be confident that the agency that you ultimately choose has experience and expertise; honesty; responsiveness; qualified staff; flexibility; and emphasis on supportive services. When you have found the right agency…you will know it!
Q:	*When do I chose a child placement agency like La Vida?*
A:	Once you have decided that you wish to complete an international adoption, you should carefully research the areas of the world from which children are being placed. They are Central and South America, Eastern Europe and Asia. There is variance between these areas of the world and the countries within them in terms of the process, care of the children, waiting times, ages of children, time frames, and most importantly health of children. While no reputable agency can guarantee the health of any child, relative to many areas of the world, children from Asia have been among the healthiest. Once you identify a specific country, then choose a child-placing agency that has extensive experience in that country. The agency doesn’t have to be the largest or located in your backyard, however, based upon our experience of completing over 2,000 international adoptions, we urge you to select an agency that completes hundreds of adoptions each year versus an agency that completes 20 or 50. The reason for this is simple... international adoption can be complex and an agency that has extensive experience will also have experience resolving problems, responding to change, and providing the most efficient and effective services possible. Talk to references, review literature and web sites, talk to staff and gauge their knowledge and willingness to openly and honestly address your questions. Please be vigilant when you review fee schedules presented by agencies. We have reviewed 50 fee schedules over the past year and sadly have found that many U.S. agencies do not present material in an open and honest manner and the numbers which you see are not the actual costs you will incur. Additionally, we have found that when we have verbally inquired about many other agency’s fees, even with our expertise and knowing exactly what questions to ask, it is often impossible to get straight answers. Keep forging ahead and when you have found the right agency you will know it!
Q:	*Why are there fees and costs associated with adoption?*
A:	We truly wish that we could help you to build your family through adoption with no cost to you at all. The process of assisting you with an adoption involves many expenses and a lot of time. For this reason adoption agencies must charge fees. La Vida’s fee are staggered over the course of your adoption and the majority of the fees and expenses are not due until near the end of the adoption when you receive a child assignment and prepare to travel. We provide each family with a detailed fee schedule. Please be sure to visit our page with an article entitled "How Do Families Afford International Adoption" to see all of the ways that families finance their adoption. In this handout there is information about a new federal government tax credit which reimburses families for up to ½ of the approximate cost of an adoption.
Q:	*My spouse is more reluctant to adopt than I am. Is this common?*
A:	It is not uncommon for one spouse to be more enthusiastic and proactive about pursuing an adoption and sometimes there may even be deep divides between spouses. While ultimately it must be a joint decision, sometimes getting there is a process. If your spouse is reticent, we recommend that you each talk openly about your feelings without judgment, give each other space to process information in your own individual time frames, find a support group and talk with others who are likely to have similar experiences, and if you are having a particular difficult time working out issues, seek the neutral assistance of a counselor.
Q:	*Do I have to earn a lot of money to adopt?*
A:	No, you simply have to be financially stable and have the financial ability to add a new member to your family. The USCIS has minimum income requirements, which nearly every family meets and certain countries have income guidelines as well. Please see the frequently asked questions about adoption from China for detail on China’s general income guidelines.
Q:	*Do we have to live in a large or elaborate house to adopt?*
A:	No, you may rent or own any type of dwelling. It simply needs to be reasonable to accommodate a child.
Q:	*Do I have to have an unblemished personal history to adopt?*
A:	No, many families successfully adopt who have been divorced, have criminal histories, have been counseling or who have physical or mental health histories. It is important to be open with your agency about our personal history so that relevant histories can be understood and appropriately addressed in your home study. If you have any personal questions about a particular situation please give us a call or send an e-mail and hopefully we can put your mind at rest.
Q:	*Does it matter whether I am infertile or fertile?*
A:	No, it does not. Families adopt for many reasons and proof of fertility or infertility is not required.
Q:	*What is a home study and why do I need one to adopt?*
A:	A home study is an independent study of your family’s capacity and readiness to provide a physically and psychologically safe home for a child. It takes place early in the adoption process and is required by your state of residence, the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services and the country from which you will be adopting. The home study agency will collect an application from you and supporting documentation such as a medical report, letters of reference, copies of your birth certificates, criminal and child abuse clearances etc. These documents will be reviewed and then a social worker will meet with your family usually between 2 and 4 times. During these meetings, the social worker will get to know your family better so that he or she can write a home study report which will then become a part of your USCIS application and your country dossier. The report is generally about 10 pages in length and provides a snapshot of your family. The purpose of the home study is to screen and prepare you for adoption. Nearly all families who seek to build their family through international adoption breeze through the home study and are able to provide loving and nurturing homes for children. The most important things to remember about a home study is that the process is in place to protect children, that the country from which you are adopting has an obligation to understand more about you, that families come in all shapes and sizes and have unique and sometimes challenging histories and that nearly all families easily meet the home study requirements. A good home study agency (like a good child-placing agency) assumes from the beginning that you will be a great resource for a child, recognizes the uniqueness of families and individuals and their circumstances and works in partnership with you to complete a home study and bring a child into your family. We consider ourselves fortunate to be working with individuals and couples who are "not perfect", because it makes our work much more real and interesting. More often than not, the families with which we work are just like us! Please visit our Home Study page for more information.
Q:	*Why is the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services involved in international adoption?*
A:	The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the U.S. federal agency which monitors immigration into the United States. Because your child will be coming into the U.S. as an immigrant, the USCIS has a role in every international adoption. The role involves confirming that you are eligible to adopt and later, that the child that you wish to adopt is legally eligible to be adopted. The application process is fairly simple and La Vida will send your application to the USCIS and monitor receipt of your approval.
Q:	*What is a dossier and why is it necessary?*
A:	A dossier, although it sounds very mysterious, is simply an application packet which is sent to the country from which you adopt. It usually contains core documents such as your home study, your Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services Approval, birth, marriage, divorce decrees, a letter of application, a health report, employment verification. Each country has different dossier requirements and La Vida will guide you step by step through the collection of your dossier documents and we will certify and authenticate them for you. Please visit our "Dossier" page to learn more.
Q:	*What is "certification and authentication" of dossier documents?*
A:	Each of the documents that comprise your dossier will have a notarized signature or a seal (in the case of vital records certificates). Most countries require certification and authentication of the notary's seal, which serves ultimately to verify the validity of the document itself. The process involves sending each of your documents through a series of steps. For example, if you work in the state of Ohio and an Ohio notary notarizes your employment verification document signature the document will need to be sent to the county in which the notary is registered. Next it will be sent to the Ohio Secretary of State and finally to the foreign country embassy in the United States which serves the state of Ohio. Each of these local, state and embassy levels affixes a seal to the document. If you were born in the state of Washington, your birth certificate would follow a similar path, but within the state of Washington. Each document or set of documents that is transmitted from government office to government office requires a check or money order and a cover letter (for each level) and, due to the importance of the documents, must be done by traceable mail. The task is cumbersome and time consuming, however we are happy to let you know that, as part of our fees, La Vida takes care of all of this for you. You simply need to provide us with notarized documents and we do the rest!
Q:	*Do we have to travel to the foreign country to adopt?*
A:	The country of China requires travel by at least one parent to complete the adoption. Travel to your child’s country is a once in a lifetime experience that enables you to learn about your child’s culture and better understand your child’s origin. Your experience on your trip will be invaluable when talking with your child about his or her adoption as he or she grows.
Q:	*Do you require re-adoption in the U.S?*
A:	La Vida does not require you to complete a re-adoption, however, many of our families have readopted in order to make record of the adoption within our courts, complete a name change for their child and receive a United States birth certificate. In the case of married couples who do not travel together for completion of the adoption, a re-adoption in a U.S. court is required in order to obtain citizenship for your child. Our agency will be happy to complete a re-adoption for you if you are interested.
Q:	How do I get started with La Vida?
A:	To begin the process of adoption from China please download, print, complete a La Vida application and send it to us. There is no application fee and the application may be downloaded by clicking here. You may also request our information packet which contains an application by clicking here. Your packet will be sent the day of your request or the next business day. To download and open the application you must have Adobe Reader installed. If you do not have Adobe Reader installed on your computer please click the button below to download the most current free Adobe reader program. Back To Top La Vida International 150 S. Warner Rd., Suite 144, King of Prussia, PA 19406 Phone: 610.688.8008 Fax: 610.688.8028 Birth parents may call collect e-mail: info@lavida.org web: www.lavida.org © 1998 La Vida International This page was last updated on December 31, 2006 at 12:28 a.m. China adoption / China adoption


	CLICK HERE TO SCROLL TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LA VIDA
Q:	*Can La Vida work with someone outside of the state of Pennsylvania?*
A:	Yes, La Vida works with many singles and couples from all over the United States. It will be necessary to have a home study performed by a licensed agency in your area. La Vida can help you to identify an agency in your area. This study can then be forwarded to La Vida for processing.
Q:	*How many children from China have been adopted in the United States?*
A:	Since China opened its doors to adoption by U.S. citizens, many beautiful children have joined their families. In 2005, nearly 8,000 children came to the U.S.
Q:	*How long have you had a China program?*
A:	La Vida has been working in China since early 1992 when China first allowed adoption of its children by U.S. citizens. La Vida is currently one of the largest China child placing agencies in the world and we work with families throughout the United States.
Q:	*Who may adopt from China?*
A:	Couples age 30 to 50 with 4 or fewer minor children living in the home or without children may adopt from China. Each adoptive parent must have reached age 30 at the time that your application is submitted to China. This means that you may begin the process approximately 5 or 6 months before the youngest spouse turns 30, since it takes approximately this amount of time to prepare the application which is sent to China. The China Center of Adoption Affairs has developed "preferred" categories of family qualifications. Please visit the China Program Description for details.
Q:	*What is the age range of the child that I may request?*
A:	The children that are available for adoption are primarily females, ranging in age from six months and older. Most children placed are approximately 9 months of age at the time they are referred to the family. You request the gender and age group of the child that you wish to parent and are eligible for and China then matches you with a child of that gender in the approximate age group.
Q:	*In your experience, how well do the referrals match the age, needs and health requested in my application to China?*
A:	In general, families receive children with the usual age range referred and, based upon feedback from families, in general, the health of the children is consistent with the child’s initial medical evaluation provided at referral.
Q:	*When a child is referred to a family do you typically know why he or she came to the orphanage?*
A:	At the time of child referral the China Center For Adoption Affairs does not provide details of how a child may have been abandoned. However, once in China, parents will receive an abandonment statement, which gives some details as to how the child became available for adoption.
Q:	*Do most of the children you place come from an orphanage or a foster home?*
A:	We receive children from both orphanages and foster homes. The majority of the children reside in orphanages and, based upon reports by families, approximately 15% of the children from China have received full or part time foster care.
Q:	*From what areas of China do the children usually come?*
A:	We receive referrals from several areas of China. The majority of our children are assigned from the southeastern provinces of China. The referrals of children are made by the Civil Affairs Center who oversees the placement of children for adoption in China. Occasionally, it is possible to request or work with one particular area or orphanage.
Q:	*Can I adopt two or more children at the same time?*
A:	China currently allows the adoption of only one child at a time, except in the rare occurrence of adopting twins. Families may submit another application to China one year after completing the previous adoption.
Q:	*Does the government of China have any income requirements?*
A:	There are no hard fast rules and there is some flexibility based on assets, cost of living in your area etc., but in general China requires that adoptive families have a base gross income of $10,000 per parent plus $10,000 for each child you are currently parenting, plus $10,000 for the child to be adopted. For example if a couple has no children in the home and plans to adopt one child then the calculation would be as follows: base income necessary: ($20,000) + (10,000 for the child to be adopted) = $30,000. Families must also have a net worth of at least $80,000. If you are unsure about your particular situation, please do not hesitate to give us a call to discuss your individual circumstances.
Q:	*Do my religious practices matter?*
A:	The country of China does not permit placement of children with families of the Jehovah's Witness faith. We believe that this is because of the faith's prohibition against blood transfusion. There are no other religious limitations.
Q:	*How do you coordinate with the China Center For Adoption Affairs (CCAA)?*
A:	Both La Vida’s U.S. and in-country staff maintain regular contact with CCAA and its’ officials to continue positive working relationships, keep apprised of any pertinent information and of the child assignment progress.
Q:	*What has been the average time for the most recent cases?*
A:	The most recent group of families to receive child assignments waited 24 months from the time that their dossier was registered (logged in) by CCAA. It takes approximately 4 to 5 months for preparation of the dossier prior to shipment to China. Factors, which may influence this time frame, include the timeliness of a family’s United States Citizenship and Immigration office and timely completion of the paperwork that is done early in the process.
Q:	*From the time the dossier is submitted to China to referral?*
A:	At present (as of 12/9/07), it is taking approximately 24 months to receive your child referral from China. Families adopting a child with a special need or an older child and families of Chinese descent are eligible for a significantly shorter waiting time.
Q:	*From the referral to date of travel?*
A:	It takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks from the date of receiving the referral until your travel departure.
Q:	*Do you have staff in China?*
A:	Our agency staff is employed from our offices in Pennsylvania, however, we do have an international staff of facilitators, escorts, guides, etc. who assist in your adoption experience.
Q:	*Do I send my orphanage donation to you, or do I bring it with me to China?*
A:	In nearly all cases, your orphanage donation may be wired to China ahead of time.
Q:	*What kind of pictures do you require or request?*
A:	The requirement of pictures is a component of your dossier and includes pictures of your home, activities you enjoy and the adoptive parents.
Q:	*Do you have sample forms and letters from which I can model my dossier, such as the medical report from my physician or the application for adoption?*
A:	Yes. We will guide you through compilation of your dossier, as well as meeting United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements and completion of your home study. We supply very detailed instructions and samples in order to make this process as easy for you as we can.
Q:	*Who translates the dossier (country application)?*
A:	We have a facilitator who arranges for translation of your dossier. It is included as part of your fees.
Q:	*When you provide the child referral will it include a photo and the child’s medical history?*
A:	Yes. Your referral will include a photo(s), a medical history in Chinese and a summative English translation of this document.
Q:	*Will it include anything else?*
A:	At the time you receive a child referral, you will receive a complete packet of information about child acceptance, travel timing, visa application and further information about the remainder of the adoption process.
Q:	*What medical testing of children referred for adoption is routinely performed?*
A:	The country of China routinely conducts a general physical exam and performs a general blood screening, including testing for Hepatitis B and HIV.
Q:	*Will I receive updated information about the child after accepting the referral and before I travel?*
A:	If you have any concerns about your child's health or development we will request additional information from the China Center For Adoption Affairs.
Q:	*What would happen if I felt I needed to decline the referral?*
A:	Although it is rare, occasionally families have concerns, which lead them to decline the child referral that has been sent from China. In these cases we require that you notify us verbally and in writing. We will notify China of your decision and the reason for declination of the child referral. We will then request that China adoption officials review your concerns and present another child for referral. In general, a new child referral is available in approximately 1 to 2 months.
Q:	*How many families usually travel together?*
A:	Travel groups are usually comprised of between 12 and 15 families.
Q:	*Do you require both parents to travel?*
A:	China does not require that both parents travel, however, it is preferred if they can. It is important to share with your child as much as their heritage and culture as possible and it is wonderful if both parents could share their experiences while in China. Friends, children and extended family are welcome to accompany adoptive parent(s) on the trip.
Q:	*What is the agency’s expectation for timing while in China?*
A:	The trip takes approximately 10 to 12 days in China to complete. During this time we will complete the adoption process and complete the U.S. requirements for issuing the child a passport and visa. La Vida will arrange all appointments, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, meals, hotels, and guides for you.
Q:	*Will you plan the trip to my child’s country?*
A:	Absolutely. We carefully arrange every detail of your trip from your local airport to the country of China and back home again. For the in-country portion of your trip, each hotel, guide, facilitator, sightseeing activity, and adoption appointment will be fully arranged on your behalf. Your job will be to take our lead and enjoy your new child.
Q:	*Who will meet me in China and what experience does this person have?*
A:	Our facilitator has worked for La Vida for years and has escorted hundreds of groups will meet you. He is a Chinese born citizen who was born, raised and educated in China until an adult. He then traveled to the United States and was employed in the medical field until the time he became employed by this agency. He is a valued part of our staff and highly regarded by the Chinese and our prior clients. He accompanies nearly all groups and manages others who assist you such as drivers, guides and translators.
Q:	*Will your facilitator(s) always accompany me?*
A:	Yes, the facilitator will accompany you to your appointments and insure that all appropriate forms and paperwork are completed accurately. There will also be local guides who aid us in each of our trips so that help is always available to you.
Q:	*Will I be able to visit the orphanage/foster home?*
A:	We have been able to arrange visits to the orphanage. However, although you may meet the foster caregiver, we have not had visits to their residences. It is not always possible to arrange a visit to the orphanage with every trip, but if possible, it will be arranged.
Q:	*Will I have a chance to do some sightseeing, and if so, do you provide me with a tour guide contact?*
A:	Yes, we will arrange sightseeing during down times for the group while you are in China. We have local travel guides who will plan and escort you to the sights in the area. If you would like to travel a couple days earlier or stay a few days longer to see some additional sights, we will put in contact with the travel agent who makes the travel plans for the group in order to coordinate your additional stay in China.
Q:	*Do you have an independent doctor whom exams the child before the adoption is completed?*
A:	Yes. La Vida makes available to each family an independent doctor who travels with the group for the first several days after the children have been received by their parents. The doctor will examine the children and if needed, a specialist will be contacted to further examine a child should he or she have possible medical problems.
Q:	*Do you assist in securing my new child’s passport, medical exam, and visa and in finalizing adoption papers?*
A:	Yes. We will assist you from the very start of your application with this agency until your completion of your adoption. We will aid you in the completion of all documents and visits.
Q:	*Do you have any policies concerning my traveling to China with my current children?*
A:	We certainly allow children to travel along with their parents. We have had other families travel with children and will be happy to supply you with their names so that you can speak to them about their experience.
Q:	*Do you require a post placement home visit?*
A:	Yes, China requires the completion of 2 post-placement visits after you return home with your child. These visits take place 6 and 12 months after you return home. These post placement reports offer support to the family if needed and provide on-going reassurance to adoption officials that the children they have placed are growing and thriving. The receipt of post placement reports plays an important role in the continuation of adoption for the children who remain behind.
Q:	*Will my child be a U.S. citizen?*
A:	In most cases, yes. The Child Citizenship Act was implemented as of February 27, 2001. Under the new law, all foreign-born children adopted by U.S. citizens will automatically acquire U.S. citizenship as soon as the following qualifications are satisfied: At least one adoptive parent is a U.S. Citizen; the child is under 18 years of age; there is a full & final adoption of the child (that is recognized by the U.S. Government); the child is lawfully admitted to the United States as an immigrant and resides with the adoptive parents. For adoptions completed in China, these requirements are met for single adoptive parents and when, in the case of married couples, both spouses travel to the country to complete the adoption. In the case of married couples where one spouse does not travel, then a re-adoption in a U.S. court will be required in order to apply for citizenship for your child.
Q:	*Do you provide any services to orphans who are waiting?*
A:	La Vida provides funding for humanitarian aid services that reach out to children who wait for families and children who cannot or will not be adopted. These programs provide general financial support, childcare, education, food, clothing, medical care and shelter for these children and ensures them a safer, healthier and higher quality of life.
Q:	*How do I get started with La Vida's China adoption program?*
A:	To begin the process of adoption from China please download, print, complete a La Vida application and send it to us. There is no application fee and the application may be downloaded by clicking here. You may also request our information packet which contains an application by clicking here. Your packet will be sent the day of your request or the next business day. To download and open the application you must have Adobe Reader installed. If you do not have Adobe Reader installed on your computer please click the button below to download the most current free Adobe reader program.