Finalization

The legal process by which the adoption becomes permanent and binding.

Hague Convention on Inter- country Adoption 

A multinational agreement designed to promote the uniformity and efficiency of international adoptions.

Home study 

A study of the prospective adoptive family and their home, life experiences, health, lifestyle, extended family, attitudes, support system, values, beliefs, and other factors relating to the prospective adoption. This information is summarized in an adoption study or home study report.

Independent adoption 

An adoption arranged privately between the birth family and the adoptive family, without an adoption agency.

Inter-country or international adoption 

The adoption of a child from a country outside of the United States.

Non-identifying information <