Biological Parents and the Interstate Compact

The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) guides how children move safely across state lines and helps biological parents stay informed, supported and connected throughout the process.

Parent Home Study Process 

• The Virginia Interstate Compact Office receives the request and sends it to your local agency (or to the other state if you live outside Virginia). 
• The home study includes background checks, questionnaires, interviews and a safety check of your home. 
• Results are sent back to the sending state, which approves or denies the placement. 

If approved: 

• The sending state notifies Virginia when the child will move. 
• Local social services staff visit monthly, provide referrals and send reports back. 

Timelines: 

• Home study: usually 60–90 business days 
• Sending state: up to 6 months to place the child once approved 
• Receiving state: supervises for at least 6 months, but the sending state decides when custody returns to the parent and the case closes

If you are a parent, caregiver or attorney navigating an out-of-state placement or adoption, this guide will help you understand the Interstate Compact process and email the Virginia office for support. Together, we can ensure children are placed safely and supported across state lines.