When you travel to Ethiopia to appear in court, you will have the opportunity to visit with your child in his or her environment and participate in cultural activities in Addis Ababa with other adoptive families and Gladney in-country staff. The first trip is approximately 5-7 days in Ethiopia.  Only one parent is required to travel for this trip.

Once your adoption is approved and finalized by the federal courts in Ethiopia, you will be expected to return to Ethiopia approximately 3-6 weeks later to escort your child home.

On the second trip to Ethiopia for placement, you will have the opportunity to stay at a guest house and take placement of your child from the orphanage or Gladney's foster care center. Only one parent is required to travel for this trip.  You will be required to appear at the US Embassy in Addis Ababa to apply for a US visa for your adopted child.  After you receive your child's U.S. visa, you may return home with your child.  The second trip is approximately 5-7 days in Ethiopia. 

To learn more about adopting from Ethiopia, please request one of Gladney's free, comprehensive Adoption Information Packets. Make your request on-line or by calling 1-800-INT-ADOP.