If you’re in the beginning stages of considering adoption for your family, it’s normal to wonder if you meet Connecticut’s adoption requirements. Adoption laws can be confusing and vary from state to state, so we’ve rounded up the answers to the questions we hear most frequently about Connecticut qualifications for adoption. For more information about our agency requirements, call 1-800-ADOPTION at any time to speak with a licensed social worker.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn more about the requirements for an adoption in Connecticut. 

How old do you have to be to adopt in Connecticut?

Connecticut state laws don’t define a specific adoption age limit, although you must be at least a legal adult. In the case of an adult adoption, the person who is adopting must be older than the person who is being adopted. In this case, the adopted person has to agree to the adoption in writing submitted to a judge.

Do you have to be married to adopt in Connecticut?

Connecticut laws don’t mention a specific marriage requirement for adoption. If, however, you are married, you must adopt jointly with your spouse unless the court makes an exception. In an adult adoption situation, a person may not adopt an adult who is their spouse, sibling, uncle or aunt.

Can a felon adopt a child in Connecticut?

Most state laws do not specifically address this question, and Connecticut is no different. It’s a simple question, but not such a simple answer. If you have been convicted of a felony in Connecticut — or in any other state — whether you can adopt or not will depend mostly on the nature of that felony. If the crime involved a child, domestic violence, or any other type of violence, it is unlikely that a Connecticut court will allow you to adopt a child. However, if it was of a different nature and you can explain to your social worker what happened, what you learned, and how you’ve changed, there is a chance that you may still meet the Connecticut adoption requirements.

What are the emotional requirements to adopt a child in CT?

If a social worker determines that you are legally eligible to adopt in Connecticut, it’s also important that you be emotionally prepared. Your social worker may ask you the following questions to get a sense of your readiness to adopt a child:

• Do you and your spouse both feel the same way about growing through adoption?

• If you experienced infertility, have you fully grieved that and moved on?

• Have you decided how to tell those closest to you about your decision to adopt?

• Have you come to terms with the fact the adoption process will come with both emotional highs and lows?

If you and your spouse are both on the same page and feel confident in your answers to all of these questions, congratulations! To learn more about proceeding with adoption in Connecticut with our agency, please call 1-800-ADOPTION.

Requirements to Adopt a Child from the Connecticut Foster Care System

American Adoptions isn’t affiliated with Connecticut’s foster care system, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t still passionate about it. To foster parent or adopt from foster care in Connecticut, you must:

• Be 21 years of age or older

• Be able to provide a loving, safe home

• Have sufficient income to meet your own financial needs

• Pass background checks with both local police and the FBI

• Attend a 10-week training program

• Complete an adoption home study

• Have sufficient bedrooms for foster children

To learn more about adopting from foster care, contact the Connecticut Department of Children and Families.

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