Adopt a child
4 tasks in suggested order
1. Contact the competent child and youth welfare authority
The first point of contact for an adoption is the competent local child and youth welfare authority.
At the start of the adoption process.
District authority, municipal authority in statutory cities, MA 11 in Vienna.
Personal details; the authority specifies further documents during the process.
Adoption placement may only be carried out by competent or recognised bodies.
Official source: oesterreich.gv.at
2. Complete the information and suitability assessment
After initial contact there is an information meeting and the suitability of the prospective adopter(s) is assessed.
After initial contact; duration depends on the procedure.
At the child and youth welfare authority.
Personal and family-related evidence requested by the competent authority.
The official guidance notes that waiting periods can be long.
Official source: oesterreich.gv.at
3. Prepare the written adoption contract
The adoption is based on a written contract that must subsequently be approved by the court.
After the preparatory assessments in the individual case.
Within the adoption process; the competent authority assists with the procedure.
The certificates and consents listed in the official guidance.
The contract only becomes effective with court approval.
Official source: oesterreich.gv.at
4. Obtain court approval
The competent guardianship court checks the requirements and approves the adoption contract.
After the adoption contract has been concluded.
District court at the child’s place of residence.
Adoption contract, certificates and required consents according to the official list.
The adoption contract does not take effect without court approval.
Official source: oesterreich.gv.at
