Why So Much Money??

Many people have asked why international adoptions cost so much.  So I thought I would share a bit of where all the money goes and why (to the best of my ability):

*Indicates what we have already paid

Adoption Expenses in the United States

Application Fee                 $200*

First Program Fee            $2250*

Second Program Fee      $2260

Third Program Fee           $1650

Home Study                       $1500*

Physicals & Blood work  $900*

Care of the Child

Orphanage Fee                $5200

Translation & Document Expenses

Dossier Preparation        $450*

Adoption Registration

& Notarization                   $400*

Child’s Passport                  $100

Child Physical &

Photo                                    $80

Child US Entry Visa            $404

Court Validation Fee       Varies

Our Passports                    $270*

Passport Photos               $35*

Post Adoption Service

Post Adoption Deposit  $1000

Third Party Fees

USCIS Filing &

Fingerprinting                    $890

CCCWA Fee                        $1050

Child’s State

Birth Certificate                Varies

Travel & Accommodations Expenses

Visa to enter China          $280

US Document &

International Airfare       $1200-$1800 per adult

In-China Travel &

Accommodations             $2600-$3200 for two adults

Food                                    $600-$800 per couple

As you can see, we have a long way to go!  I’m finding out that everything tips towards the higher side and we have had some unexpected expenses as well.  But, God is good and HE owns EVERYTHING!  Nothing is impossible for HIM even when our checkbook screams from all of the intrusions!   We truly believe that the Lord has brought Sophia into our lives and we will be together soon enough. 

-Rachel