Ecuador’s adoption authority gives preference to prospective parents of Ecuadorian descent. Prior to adoption, children are cared for in orphanages, where circumstances and the quality of care vary considerably. Most children are older and/or members of a sibling group and have medical and/or developmental needs.
For more up-to-date information on how to adopt from Ecuador, visit the Ecuador Adoption page on the U.S. State Department’s website. Get parent-to-parent advice and support in the International Adoption Support group in our online community, Adoptive Families Circle.
Ecuador Adoption Fast Facts
- 2015 Adoptions: 6 children
- Hague Accredited: Yes
- Estimated Total Cost: $25,000 to $40,000
- Profile of Children: Most children are older, have special needs, or are in sibling groups. 50% are between 5 and 12 years old. 67% are girls (2015).
- Parent Ages: Couples must be married for at least three years, and both spouses must be over 25. Both parents must be between 14 and 45 years older than the child.
- Family Status: Both heterosexual married couples and singles are eligible to adopt. If single, there are additional requirements to adopt a child of the opposite sex. Parents of Ecuadorian descent and heterosexual married couples are given preference.
- Travel: Parent(s) are generally required to stay in Ecuador for four to five weeks to finalize an adoption. Both parents must be present for the first three weeks of the adoption process, and at least one parent must complete the process (which generally takes an additional five weeks).
- Timeline: Generally between nine and 16 months.
