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Adoption of a Minor in Greece: Everything Parents Need to Know About Requirements and Process

27/09/2024

Adoption of a minor child is a significant legal process with deep socio-emotional implications. This process creates a new parental relationship between adoptive parents and the child, without any biological bond. The desire of the prospective parents is to fully integrate the child into their family and detach them from their biological family.

Types of Adoption

Adoption is classified into three main categories:

  1. Intercountry adoption: When an individual or a family adopts a child from another country.
  2. Private adoption: When a child is adopted by another person or family, either known or unknown to the adoptive family.
  3. State adoption: When a child is adopted from an institution.

Adoption Requirements

Certain legal requirements must be met for an adoption to proceed, as outlined in the Greek Civil Code:

  • The adoptive parent must be an adult over 30 and under 60 years old.
  • The age difference between the adoptive parent and the child must be at least 18 years and not more than 50 years.
  • The consent of the biological parents is mandatory, and it cannot be given before three months after the child's birth.
  • If the child is 12 years old or older, their consent is also required.

Adoption Process

The adoption process can be complex and time-consuming. Prospective parents must submit an application to the competent court, where their suitability will be evaluated based on their financial and social status, health, and overall personality. The social services report is a critical aspect, as it assesses factors such as criminal records and the mental health of the parents.

The final decision is issued by the court, which considers all legal terms and verifies that the adoption will be in the child's best interest.

Where Can Parents Turn for Help with Adoption?

Parents interested in adopting can reach out to the following services and organizations in Greece for guidance and support:

  • National Adoption Organization (N.A.O.): Responsible for overseeing and organizing adoption processes. They provide consultation and assistance to families.
  • Social Services: Every municipality has a social welfare department that can guide and assist prospective parents with the initial steps of the adoption process.
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Organizations such as The Smile of the Child and SOS Children's Villages offer support and guidance to families interested in adoption.
  • Childcare Institutions: In cases of state adoption, childcare institutions like Ark of the World can provide information on children available for adoption.

Timeline for Completing the Adoption Process

The time required to complete an adoption process can range from 1 to 3 years, depending on the case. Each case is unique, and the duration depends on factors such as bureaucracy, the adoptive parents' ability to meet the requirements, and any legal complications. For example, an international adoption from countries like Ethiopia or China may take longer than a domestic adoption due to international procedural requirements.

Example of an Adoption Timeline

In one case, a family adopting a child from Greece submitted their initial application, and the process took approximately 18 months. This was due to the time needed to gather the necessary documents and conduct the social inquiry. In contrast, an intercountry adoption from Russia took nearly three years to complete because of delays in processing international legal requirements.

Additional Useful Information

  • Adoption Costs: The cost of adopting in Greece can range from €1,500 to €5,000, depending on the involvement of lawyers, social workers, and other professionals.
  • Psychological Support: Adoption is a journey for both parents and the child. Several organizations offer psychological support to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Adoption is an invaluable process that creates new family bonds. Despite the bureaucratic challenges and legal requirements, the final reward is priceless for families who wish to provide a loving home for a child.

  • National Center for Social Solidarity (E.K.K.A) – Guidelines for Adoption in Greece
  • "The Smile of the Child" – Counseling and support for adoptive families
  • UNICEF – Intercountry Adoption: International adoption processes and guidelines
  • Civil Code Legislation – Requirements and procedures for adopting a minor
  • KETHEA – Psychological support and guidance for adoptions
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