Adopting a Child from Morocco FAQs
Things to know about Moroccan adoption
The Morocco Kafala Program is currently accepting applications from Moroccan-American families and families open to a waiting child.
Common Questions About Adopting From Morocco
Who are the Children in Need of Kafala?
We are actively seeking families to adopt children from Morocco who are open to:
- Children aged 18 months and older who are waiting for loving homes.
- Sibling groups who need to be placed together.
- Children with physical needs who require specialized care and support.
More boys are in need of placement than girls.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for Adopting from Morocco?
To adopt from Morocco, prospective adoptive parents must meet the following criteria:
- Religion: All household members must be Sunni Muslim.
- Age: Applicants must be between 25 and 55 years old.
- Marital Status: Single women and married couples are eligible.
- Marital History: No more than one divorce per spouse.
- Family Composition: Preference is given to families with no children or one child.
- Gender Preference: Not permitted.
- Income: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability.
- Physical Health: Must be in excellent health, with no significant medical concerns.
- Mental Health: Considered on a case-by-case basis; severe conditions may disqualify applicants.
- Criminal History: Minor offenses older than five years may be reviewed; drug offenses are not permitted.
- To learn more about Moroccan adoptions, visit Adoption.Stae.gov.
What Information Will I Receive About the Child?
When adopting from Morocco, families receive a background study on the child, which includes:
- Given name, gender, and birth date.
- Height and weight measurements.
- Medical reports covering the child’s health in orphanage care.
- A developmental milestone assessment of motor skills, speech, and cognitive abilities.
- Photos and videos of the child.
- Official documents in Arabic or French and translated into English.
How Long is the Adoption Process?
The timeline for adopting from Morocco varies based on the child’s needs:
- 9 to 15 months or more, for older children, and Children with medical needs, emotional concerns, developmental delays, or complex family backgrounds.
How Long is the Stay in Morocco?
Families adopting from Morocco typically make a single trip lasting 6 to 8 weeks to complete all legal processes and transition the child into their home.
What is Kafala?
Kafala, meaning “sponsorship” or “guardianship” in Arabic, is the legal framework for adopting from Morocco. The Moroccan court grants parental authority to adoptive parents, who commit to:
- Raising the child as a Sunni Muslim.
- Providing financial and emotional support.
- Preserving the child’s heritage by maintaining their given name.
Unlike traditional adoption, Kafala ensures the child’s cultural identity is protected while allowing them to grow in a loving, permanent home. Once the child immigrates to the U.S., the adoption process can be finalized.
Is Adopting from Morocco Right for You?
If you are a lifelong practicing Sunni Muslim and open to adopting an older child or a child with medical needs, Morocco may be a good fit for your family. To find out more about kafala and adoption from Morocco, click here.
For more information about the children available and the needs to expect, please contact us at nb@new-beginnings.org.
Understanding the Risks in a Reverse Kafala Process
Moroccan Heritage families may secure kafala independently, but a Reverse Kafala—where kafala is obtained before U.S. approval—can create legal and immigration challenges. Without a Primary Provider, families risk delays, increased costs, and visa denials. Learn how following the standard kafala process ensures a smoother path to bringing your child home.
Morocco Kafala Program Update
The Morocco Kafala Program is actively collaborating with orphanages and local government officials across Morocco to understand better how we can meet the needs of children awaiting permanent families. While the number of orphans in Morocco is high, establishing...
Program News: Morocco
New Beginnings is actively working with orphanages and officials across Morocco to expand ethical, child-centered kafala opportunities. While the process takes time, we remain dedicated to establishing responsible partnerships that will help more children find loving homes.