In May, 2016, the Ghanaian Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection confirmed its moratorium on intercountry adoption with four exceptions: children with significant medical needs, children on the verge of aging out of the opportunity to be adopted, children who are to be adopted by blood relatives, children with special circumstances approved by the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection. Prospective adoptive parents should contact the Ministry first in order to be matched with a child, before matching parents need to undergo a medical exam, and prove they can care for a child who is socially and culturally different.
For more up-to-date information on how to adopt from Ghana, visit the Ghana Adoption page on the U.S. State Department’s website. Get parent-to-parent advice and support in the Ghana Adoptive Families group in our online community, Adoptive Families Circle.
Ghana Adoption Fast Facts
- 2015 Adoptions: 85 children
- Hague Country: No
- Profile of Children: 68% of children are 5 years and older. 54% of children are girls. (2014)
- Estimated Total Cost: $18,000
- Parents’ Ages: Parents must be at least 25 years of age, and 21 years older than the child.
- Family Requirements: Married couples may adopt. A single woman may adopt if she is a citizen of Ghana. Same-sex couples may not adopt.
- Travel: Parents must reside in Ghana for three months prior to adopting a child.
- Timeline for Ghana Adoption: 12-18 months.
Personal Stories About Ghana Adoption
Helpful Books About Ghana Adoption
- Dead Draw by Kathy and Mandi Rondeau
