Every child deserves a safe, permanent and loving family. To learn more about adoption, call 1-800-DO-ADOPT (1-800-362-3678) or visit the Adoption Inquiry page to find out how to submit your information for consideration.
Virginia's Adoption Program helps children in foster care find safe, permanent homes when they cannot return to their families. The program works with local departments of social services and licensed agencies to support adoptions of children of all ages, including those placed with relatives or kin.
Learn the basics
Understand requirements, timelines and what to expect.
Apply & complete a home study
Share your story, references and safety checks—so we can match well.
Complete training
Become certified as a foster/adoptive parent and get tools to support trauma-informed care.
Matching & placement
Your worker partners with you to find the right fit for your family and the child.
Supervision period
Supports continue while everyone adjusts and settles into routines.
Finalize in court
Adoption becomes legal—and your lifelong support options continue.
You don’t have to know everything today. We’ll guide you at each step.
You can adopt if you:
People of many backgrounds adopt—including single adults, married couples, relatives/kin and LGBTQ+ families.
Some families may receive monthly assistance, Medicaid and/or help with non-recurring costs. Eligibility depends on the child’s needs and situation.
Local partners offer counseling, support groups, education, crisis help and respite resources—so you don’t have to do this alone.
If you want to find or reconnect with birth relatives, we can explain options and how to start.
If you’re ready to explore adoption, your journey can begin today. Every child deserves a family, and you may be the one to provide it.
Looking for older adoption guidance materials? Visit the archive to access past manuals, clarification notices and reference documents related to adoption guidance.
Adoptive Home Placement Agreement (PDF)
Commissioner's Confidential Report (PDF)
Entrustment Agreement for Permanent Surrender of a Child (PDF)
Family Services Appeal Request (PDF)
Family Services Notice of Action and Right to Appeal (PDF)
Home Study-Parental Placement Adoption (PDF)
Post Adoption Contact and Communication Agreement (PDF)
Report of Investigation-Adult Adoption (PDF)
Report of Investigation-Stepparent Adoption (PDF)
Report of Suspected Violations (PDF)
Supplementary Report of Investigation or Visitation (PDF)
Waiver of Full Name & Address in Parental Placement Adoption (PDF)
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