International Adoption

The adoption of children who reside outside of Canada

Families may choose international adoption for cultural or other reasons. Some individuals and/or families have spent time living in a specific country or wish to adopt a relative internationally.

Also called intercountry adoptions, international adoptions are very complex because they must follow laws set out by:

  • Provincial and territorial governments - Adoption Regulations
  • The Government of Canada (IRCC)
  • The Sending State (jurisdiction)

Adopting Family Members Internationally

For families wanting to pursue an adoption of a relative or family member, the first step must be to contact the Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services to speak with an Intercountry Adoption Worker.

How it Works

In order to adopt internationally you must work with the provincial adoption Central Authority, Saskatchewan's Ministry of Social Services - Intercountry Adoption Program. The Ministry of Social Services is involved in terms of ensuring all the legal requirements for an international adoption are met and they must approve the placement of the child.

International adoptions are completed with the help of a Ministry-approved Independent Practitioner and, very frequently, the services of an International Adoption Agency. To learn more about international adoption in Saskatchewan, request an International Adoption Information e-Package.

Important Note

In May 1993, over 60 countries, including Canada, reached agreement on the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Cooperation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption - The Hague Convention. The Convention safeguards the best interests and fundamental rights of children in adoption by setting international standards and procedures between a child’s country of origin and the adoptive parent’s country of residence. It is intended to prevent abuses such as abduction, trafficking of children, and improper or other financial gain.

Intercountry adoption activity in the province is governed by The Saskatchewan Intercountry (Hague Convention) Implementation Act, The Adoption Act 1998 and The Adoption Regulations (2003).

Saskatchewan will work with certain Non-Hague jurisdictions, however, the jurisdiction to be worked with is expected to meet the same requirements as Hague jurisdictions.