How much?

From first finding out we were adopting to now when people see our adopted son, the first word we usually hear is "expensive." "Isn't adoption expensive?" or "I hear adoption is really expensive." Let me make one thing extraordinarily clear: Adoption may be expensive, but it didn't cost us a thing. You may be thinking that's crazy talk because we spent a lot of money on our adoption journey. What I mean is that we are not worse off, or lacking, or in want, and we will definitely never regret making that decision. Yes, we could have bought a car, started a college fund, or took many a beautiful vacation. But look at these smiles!

This is what God intended, that Elijah be a part of our family. And where there's God's will, there's a way. Yes, we still have post adoption report expenses, NC court (readoption) expenses, and Elijah's second surgery expenses. But there is not a doubt in my mind that we followed our hearts to our second son. If you've ever met adoptive parents before, then you know the parents believe this child was meant to be with their family. Adoptive parents would do it all over again in a heartbeat to bring their child home. 

If you're interested in adoption from China, here is a general breakdown of expenses. But remember that while the paper chase is expensive, your child is priceless. Adding a member to your family is invaluable, no matter how much you spend on the journey (adoption or assisted reproductive technology). Feel free to contact me with questions. If you want to begin this journey, I will support you whole heartedly!

Expenses (approximate) by Category:

Placement agency fees $7350

Home study fees $2500

Dossier preparation $500-1,000

USCIS filing & fingerprinting $890

Orphanage fee $5,500-6,000

CCCWA $1700

Parent's visa $280

International Airfare $1,200-1,900 per adult (child over 2 also requires ticket)

In-China travel, accommodations, food $4,200-4,800

Adoption registration & notarization $400-800

Child's passport, physical, photo, visa $580-650

Court validation fees & Child's state birth certificate - vary by county/state

Post placement report fees $1000

Remember that these fees are spread out over the course of the adoption process. 

Adoption Aid:

Fundraisers, Donations, Employer benefits, Adoption grants, Low/no interest loans

Let me end with a reminder of the joy of Gotcha Day and what this journey is really about: The face/person/soul waiting on the other end!