RICA
To register an adoption, you need to apply to the Adoption Authority to request registration of the adoption under Irish law. The application must be accompanied by proof of the foreign adoption. The Authority require the original of the adoption order made in the foreign country. The Authority will require a certified English translation of the adoption order with your application. The Authority examines whether the adoption complies with the definition of a ‘foreign adoption’ contained in Section 1 of the Adoption Act, 1991. Once the Authority is satisfied, an entry can be made in the Register of Intercountry Adoptions. Once registered, the child's adoption has the same legal status as if the adoption was made in this country. The certificate issued is a certified copy of the entry made in the Register of Intercountry Adoptions. For legal purposes this certificate has the status of a birth certificate.
ADOPTING ABROAD AND RESIDING IN IRELAND
Persons holding a valid Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability from the Adoption Authority and who adopt abroad are obliged by law to apply for an entry in the RICA not later than 3 months after the date when a child first enters the state after his or her intercountry adoption. Sanctions may occur where Adoptive Parents do not comply with this requirement. All Adoptive Parents must have an Article 23 Certificate from the National Central Authority in the country of origin prior to gaining entry to the Register.APPLICATION FOR REGISTER OF INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS.
ADOPTING AND RESIDING OUTSIDE IRELAND
Persons residing outside of Ireland and adopting in their country of residence or from another country should do so with great care and attention. Irish legislation is quite complex on this matter and you should seek independent legal advice prior to proceeding.
In order to be recognised, the adoption MUST comply with the definition of a ‘foreign’ adoption contained in the 1991 Adoption Act. Note - Not all foreign adoptions are ‘on par’ with Irish adoptions.
Generally speaking, since 1 November 2010, only two types of adoptions are recognised:
1. Where the adoption is effected in a foreign state and the adopters are habitually resident in that state (for example adopting in Peru while residing in Peru)
OR
2. Where the adoption is effected in accordance with the terms and conditions of the 1993 Hague Convention.APPLICATION FOR REGISTER OF INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS.
LOOKING FOR A COPY OF AN ENTRY IN THE REGISTER OF INTERCOUNTRY ADOPTIONS
If an entry in the Register of Intercountry Adoptions is granted, persons can then apply for a copy of an entry. There is a charge for this service:
1. Copy - €20.00
2. Copies - €40.00
3. Copies - €60.00
