top

close menu

Get Free Info

Types of Adoption in Wisconsin

When searching for types of adoption, you may find an overwhelming amount of information. From domestic and foster care adoption to international, step-parent, and even embryo adoption—there are many different paths to growing your family.

Understanding the different types of adoption, agencies and processes is crucial to choosing the best option for your situation. Whether you're looking to learn about the most common type of adoption or wondering what is the most popular type of adoption, we’re here to guide you.

Get started today by contacting one of our specialists.

What Are the Most Common Types of Adoption?

When people refer to the types of adoption, they often mean one of these three main options:

Domestic Adoption

This is one of the most popular types of adoption in the U.S. Domestic adoption involves adopting an infant or child within the country, typically through a private adoption agency.

  • Expectant mothers voluntarily place their child for adoption

     

  • Open, semi-open, and closed adoption options available

  • Wait times and costs vary depending on the adoption agency.

Foster Care Adoption

Foster care adoption provides permanent homes for children who are in the state’s foster care system.

Foster care adoption:

  • Typically involves adopting an older child.
  • Can be more affordable than private adoption.
  • Requires training and approval by the state.

International Adoption

Families can adopt a child from another country, but the process involves strict regulations.

  • Requires compliance with U.S. and foreign adoption laws.
  • Longer wait times and travel requirements.
  • Countries have varying eligibility criteria.

For more details, visit the U.S. Department of State’s guide.

Are There Different Types of Adoption Agencies to Handle These Adoptions?

Yes, different types of adoption agencies specialize in these adoption paths, offering unique services and support.

These agencies, like American Adoptions, work with expectant mothers and adoptive families to facilitate voluntary infant adoptions. They provide home study services, adoption matching, legal assistance, and post-adoption support.

State-run agencies and private organizations handle foster care adoptions. They work with child welfare professionals to place children in permanent homes after efforts for reunification with biological parents have been exhausted.

These agencies specialize in intercountry adoptions, guiding families through the complex legal requirements of both the United States and the child’s country of origin.

Choosing the right agency is critical to a smooth and ethical adoption experience. Working with a licensed, full-service adoption agency ensures you receive the professional guidance and protection you deserve.

Are There Different Types of Adoption?

Yes, there are many different types of adoption beyond the most common options of domestic, foster care, and international adoption.

The term ‘types of adoption’ can also refer to the different ways families build connections, the legal processes involved, and the unique circumstances of each adoption. 

While domestic, foster care and international adoption are the primary paths most families take, there are several other types of adoption that may be the right choice depending on your situation.

Below are a few examples of the different types of adoption that exist:

When a step-parent adopts their spouse’s biological child. This is a common form of adoption that legally establishes the parental relationship between a step-parent and child.  

This legal process allows an adult to be adopted by another adult, often to formalize a parent-child relationship that was previously unofficial or for inheritance purposes.  

Families struggling with infertility can adopt embryos that have been donated by another family, allowing them to experience pregnancy and give birth to their child.  

This occurs when adoptive parents adopt a child of a different racial or ethnic background. Families pursuing transracial adoption should be prepared to provide cultural support and education for their child.  

No matter which type of adoption you pursue, it’s important to work with a reputable and licensed adoption agency that can provide ethical and professional guidance.

If you’re unsure about which adoption path is right for you, speak with an adoption specialist today to explore your options.

Types of Adoption Communication

In addition to the many types of adoption that exist, there are also different adoption arrangements that impact how much communication adoptive and birth families have.

 Open, semi-open, and closed adoptions can apply to any of the adoption types listed above, shaping the relationships between all involved.

  • Open Adoption

    Ongoing contact between birth and adoptive families.

  • Semi-Open Adoption

    Communication through an adoption agency or intermediary.

  • Closed Adoption

    No contact or identifying information shared.

Open adoption is the most common type of adoption today, providing a more positive experience for all involved by allowing for some level of communication between birth and adoptive families.

Contact Us Today

Understanding the different types of adoption agencies and options available is key to making an informed decision. Whether you’re considering domestic, foster care, or another form of adoption, our team is here to help.

Get started today – Let’s build your family together.

Disclaimer
Information available through these links is the sole property of the companies and organizations listed therein. American Adoptions provides this information as a courtesy and is in no way responsible for its content or accuracy.

Request Free Information