Resource Parents and the Interstate Compact

When a child is placed with a foster or kinship caregiver across state lines, the Interstate Compact ensures the placement is safe and fully reviewed.

Caregiver Responsibilities

Cooperate with Virginia social services and provide requested information
Keep the and your worker informed of any changes
Follow foster parent approval standards throughout the placement

Caregiver Rights

Be treated with dignity and respect, without discrimination
Have language or other special needs accommodated
Be informed of the results of your home study

Resource Parents and the Interstate Compact

Caregiver Home Study Process

Virginia receives the request and sends it to the local agency (or forwards it if you live in another state).
The home study includes background checks, interviews, reference checks, questionnaires and a safety review of the home.
Foster parent training is required.

If approved:

The sending state notifies Virginia when the child will move.
- Or, Virginia will notify the receiving state when the child will move.
Local social services visit monthly, provide referrals and send reports.

Timelines:

Preliminary report: within 60 days
Full home study: about 6 months
Sending state: up to 6 months to place the child after approval
Case remains open until custody is transferred back to the parent, the child returns to the sending state or the child becomes an adult