Family Law
Child Adoption Law and Procedure
Child Adoption Law and Procedure in Karachi Pakistan
Adopting a child is a safer option for many couples who are not able to conceive a child naturally. Though it is an emotional process, it has made many couples’ lives meaningful and secure. Just like any other procedure, adoption has a legal aspect as well, which can be overwhelming.
Suppose you are one of those people who are contemplating the idea of adoption but are confused as to where to start. Then worry not because, in this article, we have broken down each step of the adoption procedure to make it less overwhelming for you.
Adoption in the light of Pakistani law
Adoption is a process where a couple who are not biologically related to the child adopts them. Officially, there is no law in Pakistan regarding adoption, and verbal consent or adoption deed is sufficient for it.
How to adopt a child in Pakistan
- Eligibility requirement for adoption
The following are the factors to be considered while adopting a child in Pakistan.
– Name, date, and place of birth of the child.
– Full name and residential address of biological parents.
– It is important for the adoptive parent to be Muslim for a Muslim baby. And if the child is from another religion, then a couple of the same religion should be given priority.
– It is important for the couple to be married for three years and they should be 25 and older.
– Adoptive parents should be financially secure.
– One of the parents should be a Pakistani citizen.
– It is important to apply to the family court for adoption.
- Process of adoption
– It is important to file a termination of biological parents’ rights and responsibilities from the government.
– Submit the official consent of parents with the submission of the adoption request.
– A final decision of agreement from the court if required to finalise the process.
- File for guardianship
The adopting couple needs to get legal custody of the child through the court by applying for guardianship under the Guardians and Wards Act of 1890.
- Child’s B or CRC form
Once the guardianship has been attained, the adopting couple needs to apply for the Child Protection Certificate. Once that is obtained, you can apply for the National Identity Card of the adopted child.
FAQS
- Can a couple adopt a child in Pakistan?
Yes, absolutely, a couple can adopt a child in Pakistan if they have valid reasons and resources.
- Is there any law regarding child adoption in Pakistan?
No, there is no specific law in Pakistan regarding child adoption. However, there is proper court involvement in the process.
- What is the age limit of the couple filing for child adoption?
A couple should be 25 and older to adopt a child in Pakistan.
- Can a Christian couple have a Muslim child?
No, it is prohibited, according to the Pakistani government. Only a Muslim couple can have a Muslim child during the adoption.