Types of Adoption in Texas
Choosing to grow your family through adoption is likely the most significant choice you will ever make. Understanding the different types of adoption in the Lone Star State is the first step toward reaching your goal of parenthood with total confidence.
Whether you feel called to the bond of a newborn placement or want to provide a home for a child in the state’s care, you can build a beautiful future and provide a child with the permanent home they deserve.
If you are ready to start the paperwork and handle the big feelings that come with this process, contact us online today to get the support you need.
What Are the Main Types of Adoption in Texas?
When you begin researching your options, you will find that most families choose between three primary paths. These types of adoption include domestic infant, foster care, and international adoption.
While each of these types of adoption results in a legally permanent family, they involve different legal requirements under the Texas Family Code and vary in terms of wait times and costs.
Domestic Infant Adoption in Texas
Domestic infant adoption, or private adoption, is the most common type of adoption for families who want to bring a baby home starting at birth. In this process, expectant parents voluntarily choose the adoptive family. Because this is a private legal matter, it involves specific protections for both parties.
In Texas, a birth mother must wait at least 48 hours after the baby is born before she can legally sign her consent to the adoption.
Working with a national agency for private domestic infant adoption offers several distinct advantages:
Foster Care Adoption in Texas
Adopting through the Texas foster care system is a way to give a local child a forever home. This is often the most affordable route to parenthood, but it is important to understand the primary goal of the system is reunification.
This means that private or state adoption paths are very different; in foster care, adoption is only possible if a judge terminates parental rights.
Most children in the Texas system are older or part of sibling groups, and many have experienced past trauma, making this a path for families prepared for unique parenting needs.
International Adoption for Texas Families
International adoption involves adopting a child from another country and bringing them home to Texas. This path is strictly governed by the Hague Convention and involves federal immigration laws.
When you compare domestic vs. international adoption, you’ll find that international processes are often much longer and involve travel requirements and complex cultural adaptations.
Most children available internationally are older or have identified medical needs, and the communication with biological families is typically closed.
Other Types of Adoption You Should Know
While the three tracks mentioned above are the most frequent, there are several other different types of adoption that may better suit your family's specific situation:
- Stepparent Adoption: This is a common way to formalize the legal bond between a stepparent and their spouse’s child.
- Adult Adoption: Texas law allows for the legal adoption of anyone 18 or older, often for inheritance or emotional reasons.
- Embryo Adoption: Families can adopt remaining embryos from another family’s IVF process to carry and give birth.
You can find more resources on these specific adoption types to see if a less common pathway is right for your unique legal or emotional context.
Open vs. Closed Adoption: What’s the Difference?
When people ask, "What is the most popular type of adoption?" they are usually asking about the relationship with the birth family.
Today, most different types of adoption agencies prioritize open and semi-open adoption because it is healthier for the child.
In an open adoption, you may exchange photos, emails, or even visits. It is important to remember that you are the child’s legal and emotional parents; having a relationship with the birth mother doesn't change that.
We are here to help mediate that contact so everyone feels comfortable and respected as the child grows.
What Is Transracial Adoption and What Should Families Know?
A transracial adoption occurs when a child is placed with a family of a different race or ethnicity. If you are considering this, it is vital to go beyond just love and focus on cultural competency.
You will need to think about your child’s identity development and ensure they have mentors and support networks for transracial families in your local Texas community.
Building a diverse world for your child helps them grow up with a strong sense of self and heritage.
How to Choose the Right Type of Adoption in Texas
There is no "perfect" path—only the one that works for you. Choosing between different types of adoption agencies and programs is circumstantial. To find your way, consider these practical things:
Work With a Licensed Adoption Agency in Texas
Working with a licensed professional is the best way to protect your family. American Adoptions of Texas is a state-licensed agency, which means we provide a level of security that "consultants" or unlicensed "facilitators" cannot.
When choosing an adoption agency, look for those with proven experience in your state. We prioritize your success through:
- National Marketing: We work with expectant mothers across the country to keep wait times to about 12 months.
- Financial Protection: Our Risk-Sharing program protects your investment if an adoption doesn't go through.
- In-House Services: We understand the benefits of licensed agencies and can even handle your Texas home study to keep your process simple and under one roof.
Ready to Explore Adoption in Texas? We’re Here to Help.
Every family deserves a clear path to parenthood that feels safe and supported. Whether you are just starting to look at types of adoption or you have already decided on your path, we are dedicated to helping you work through the steps.
Imagine the morning you finally see your child’s face and realize all the paperwork was worth it. To start your journey, call us today or request your free adoption information kit here.
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.