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Quick links about Ethiopia Adoption Programs
Learn about the adoption process for Ethiopia
Ethiopia Adoption with Holt International

Ethiopia adoption-little girl

Ethiopia Adoption-smiling young boy

Ethiopia Adoption-a young girl carrying a baby on her back
Every agency defines and lists fees differently, which causes confusion when comparing costs. Despite the wide-ranging variables, we have compiled an estimated total that we hope includes every necessary expense related to the adoption. No additional adoption service fees will be required to be paid in Ethiopia.

Fees and Estimated Adoption Expenses
Application $ 300
Adoption study * $ 2,500 - 2,900
Dossier fee $ 3,000
Program Fee $ 9,890
Documents, Certifications and Notarizations $ 100 – 300
USCIS fees $ 830
Post placement * $ 1,200 - 1,400
Travel cost $ 8,000 - 15,000
Estimated total $ 25,820 - 33,620
* if provided by Holt International Children's Services

Adoption Expenses Explained

Application
Holt will open a file for your family and conduct an preliminary assessment that provides initial assurance that we will be able to place a child with you. Due when first applying. Non-refundable
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Adoption Study
Often called a “homestudy,” a professional social worker will help your family understand international adoption and assess your ability to parent a child not born to you. The social worker will prepare a document (the adoption study), which is required by virtually every country in the world in order to adopt.

Holt performs the adoption study if you live in a state served by a Holt branch office (Arkansas, California, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, New Jersey, Oregon, South Dakota). If you live in another state, the adoption study will be provided and billed by an agency approved by Holt.

Due before the start of group meetings or adoptive study interviews.
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Dossier fee
This fee covers Holt costs to facilitate your adoption with government officials and our partner agencies both in the United States and abroad, coordinating services with your local social worker, administrative/office expenses and telephone expenses.

Due when Holt approves your adoption study. Non-refundable if you withdraw.
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Program fee
This fees covers costs in your child’s country of birth:

• background investigation and identification of child
• social services
• legal fees
• accepting legal responsibility for the child
• working with government and agency authorities
• translation
• child care, medical expenses (portions not covered by sponsorship)
• passport and U.S. visa fees in the child's country
• in country travel arrangements and assistance A small portion of the fee will help develop Holt Ethiopian childcare projects.

Due when you accept the assignment of a child.
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Documents, Certifications and Notarizations
These are expenses related to obtaining legal and vital documents and getting the necessary certifications and notarizations to complete your dossier. These fees are paid to the appropriate government authority.
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Postplacement fee
Several official reports are required after your child is home. This fee pays for social worker visits and documentation. If you live in a state not served by a Holt branch office, postplacement services will be provided and billed by an agency approved by Holt.
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Travel
Holt staff will guide you through making travel arrangements, and provide assistance throughout your stay in Ethiopia. Airfare, lodging and meal expenses are paid directly to the vendors you select.
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