Recognition of Foreign Adoption

At Tate Healey Webster, we assist families in ensuring their internationally adopted child’s legal status is fully recognized in Florida. If you finalized an adoption abroad, Florida law allows you to recognize a foreign adoption decree for full legal protection and access to U.S. documentation.

Recognition of Foreign Adoption is a legal process in which a Florida court formally recognizes an adoption decree issued by a foreign court or authorized body. Under Florida Statute § 63.192, valid foreign adoption judgments are treated as though they were issued by a Florida court, eliminating the need for additional termination of parental rights (TPR) proceedings in most cases.

Even if your child entered the United States with a valid visa (such as an IR3 or IH3 visa) and obtained a U.S. passport, formal recognition of your foreign adoption provides legal clarity and protection. This is especially important for:

• Obtaining a Florida-issued certificate of foreign birth abroad.
• Ensuring clear proof of U.S. citizenship, particularly if you do not have a Certificate of Citizenship (COC).
• Solidifying your parent-child relationship in the eyes of U.S. courts and government agencies.
• Avoiding future legal complications related to school enrollment, travel, healthcare, or inheritance.

• Florida Certificate of Foreign Birth Abroad: Secure an official state-issued birth certificate for your child, reflecting your legal parental status.
• Legal Certainty: Provides unassailable proof of your parent-child relationship under U.S. law.
• Peace of Mind: Removes any doubt about your child’s legal status, now and in the future.
• Simplified Documentation: Easier access to government services, including Social Security, passports, education, and medical care.

Many families ask: What is considered proof of U.S. citizenship for my adopted child?

While a U.S. passport is strong evidence, it is not the only — or always the most definitive — form of proof. A Certificate of Citizenship (COC) issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the most reliable documentation of citizenship. If you don’t have a COC, we can help guide you on whether Recognition of Foreign Adoption is necessary for your family.

We offer Recognition of Foreign Adoption services for a low flat fee. Our experienced adoption attorneys will handle all court filings and paperwork, ensuring your adoption is fully recognized under Florida law, efficiently and affordably.

If you’ve adopted a child internationally and want to ensure full legal recognition in Florida, contact Tate Healey Webster today. We are here to guide you through every step of the Recognition of Foreign Adoption process, so your family’s legal future is as secure as your love.

Call us at (813) 258-3355 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our flat fee services.