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Adoption; application for recognition or conversion of an adoption of a foreign child

If an adoption was carried out abroad, the family court can determine on application whether it is to be recognized in Germany. It can also pronounce the conversion into an adoption with the strong effects provided for under German law.

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Procedure details

If an adoption has been carried out abroad, the family court can determine on application whether it is to be recognized in Germany and what effects can be attributed to it. The family court in whose district a higher regional court has its seat is responsible for the recognition procedure for the district of this higher regional court. If the adoption was carried out in accordance with the Hague Adoption Convention and a certificate from the competent Central Authority is available, the adoption is generally recognized by law.

If an adoption carried out in accordance with foreign law has weaker effects than an adoption pronounced in accordance with German substantive provisions, the family court may, upon notarial application, pronounce the conversion into an adoption with the strong effects provided for under German law. The application for conversion can also be made years after the adoption.

  • Adoption of a child; application
    The Local Family Court decides on the adoption of minors and adults as children and the termination of the adoption relationship.
  • Adoption; information on release
    In the case of an unwanted pregnancy, the expectant mother may consider allowing adoption after the birth. A large number of mostly childless couples would like to adopt a child so that a future worth living can be achieved for as yet unborn children in this situation.
Status: 05.03.2025
Editorial responsibility Bayerisches Staatsministerium der Justiz
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