Adoption Law in Pakistan

Adoption is an important legal process that allows individuals or couples to provide a loving and stable home for a child who is not biologically related to them. In Pakistan, the laws and procedures surrounding adoption are unique and differ from those in other countries. Here is a comprehensive guide to adoption law in Pakistan:

Lack of Specific Adoption Law

Pakistan does not have a specific law that governs the adoption of children. However, this does not mean that adoption is prohibited in the country. Instead, adoption proceedings are conducted under the general principles of guardianship and family law.

Guardianship vs. Adoption

In Pakistan, there is a cultural and legal distinction between guardianship and adoption. Guardianship refers to the placement of a child under the care and responsibility of a suitable person, usually a relative or someone appointed by the court. In this case, the child does not automatically adopt the parentage of their guardian. On the other hand, adoption involves the legal transfer of parental rights and responsibilities from the biological parents to the adoptive parents.

Adoption Process

Although there is no specific law, the adoption process in Pakistan typically involves the following steps.

Step 1: Decision to Adopt: The prospective adoptive parents must decide to adopt and gather the necessary documents and information for the adoption process.

Step 2: Court Proceedings: The adoption proceedings are initiated in the court of the District Judge. The prospective adoptive parents must convince the judge that they are suitable to adopt a child in Pakistan. They need to submit their complete profile, including their priority in child adoption, the gender and age of the baby they wish to adopt, and other requirements.

Step 3: Suit for Declaration and Termination of Parental Rights: The adoptive parents file a suit in court to obtain a declaration and termination of parental rights of the biological parents. This step is crucial to legally transfer parental rights to the adoptive parents.

Step 4: Medical and Background Checks: The adoptive parents may be required to undergo medical examinations and provide background information to ensure their suitability as adoptive parents.

Step 5: Consent or Adoption Deed: Depending on the circumstances, the court may require a verbal consent or an adoption deed to formalize the adoption process.

Requirements for Adoptive Parents

To adopt a child in Pakistan, prospective adoptive parents must meet certain requirements. Age: The adoptive parents must be of legal age and capable of providing a stable and nurturing environment for the child. Financial Stability: The adoptive parents must be able to afford the expenses associated with raising a child. Suitability: The court will assess the suitability of the adoptive parents based on their character, background, and ability to provide a loving and supportive home for the child.

Legal and Social Aspects

Adopting a child in Pakistan involves both legal and social aspects. It is important to consult with legal professionals who specialize in family law to ensure compliance with the applicable regulations and procedures.

For more information contact us at 510-936-8211 and ask for Waqas