Who Can Adopt a Child in India? Eligibility Criteria Explained

 

Introduction to Adoption Eligibility in India

Deciding to adopt a child is a profound step filled with love, responsibility, and hope. In India, the process is carefully regulated to prioritize the child's best interests, ensuring that every adoptive family provides a stable, nurturing environment. The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) oversees adoption under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, and the Adoption Regulations, 2022 (with ongoing implementations into 2026).

Whether you're searching for "adoption near me" in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, or other regions, or exploring reliable "adoption services", understanding the eligibility criteria is the first and most important step. These rules apply to resident Indians, NRIs, OCIs, and in limited cases, foreigners (via inter-country adoption). The criteria focus on physical, mental, emotional, and financial capability, along with age, marital status, and family background.

This blog explains the latest eligibility rules as of 2026, helping you determine if you're ready to begin your adoption journey.

Core Eligibility Requirements for Prospective Adoptive Parents (PAPs)

To be eligible to adopt a child, you must meet these fundamental conditions set by CARA:

• Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Financial Capability: You must be healthy enough to raise a child without any life-threatening medical conditions. You should also demonstrate emotional maturity and financial stability to provide for the child's needs, including education, healthcare, and a secure home.

• No Criminal Record: You should not have been convicted of any crime or accused in cases involving child rights violations.

• Minimum Age Difference: There must be at least 25 years difference between the child and either prospective adoptive parent (calculated on the date of registration).

• Number of Existing Children: Couples with three or more living biological or previously adopted children are generally not eligible, except for special needs children, hard-to-place children, relative adoptions, or step-parent cases.

These requirements ensure the child is placed in a safe, supportive environment.

Age Criteria for Adopting Different Age Groups

Age is a key factor, determined on the date of registration on the CARINGS portal. The composite age (sum for couples) and individual limits vary by the child's age group:

• For children up to 2 years: Single parent up to 40-45 years; couple composite age up to 85-90 years.

• For children 2-4 years: Single parent up to 45 years; couple composite up to 90 years.

• For children 4-8 years: Single parent up to 50 years; couple composite up to 100 years.

• For children 8-18 years: Single parent up to 55 years; couple composite up to 110 years.

The maximum composite age for any couple is 110 years, and single parents cannot exceed 55 years in most cases. Age rules do not apply strictly to relative or step-parent adoptions.

If you're looking for "adoption near me" and fall within these brackets, you're likely eligible to proceed.

Marital Status and Single Parent Adoption Rules

India allows a wide range of family structures to adopt a child:

• Married Couples: Must have at least two years of stable marital relationship (exceptions for relative/step-parent cases). Both partners must consent.

• Single Parents: Fully eligible! Single women can adopt children of any gender. Single men can typically adopt boys only (to protect the child's welfare). Single parents must meet the same capability and age criteria.

• Other Statuses: Divorced, widowed, or legally separated individuals are eligible if they fulfill other requirements. Cohabiting (unmarried) couples are not permitted.

Recent guidelines (including foster-to-adopt pathways) have expanded opportunities for single individuals aged 35-60 in certain foster scenarios, which can lead to adoption.

Special Cases: Relative, Step-Parent, and Special Needs Adoption

• Relative Adoption: Relaxed rules—no strict age or marriage duration requirements. Focuses on family ties.

• Step-Parent Adoption: Common in blended families; similar relaxations apply.

• Special Needs or Hard-to-Place Children: Priority given even to families with existing children, encouraging inclusive adoptions.

These categories often move faster through the process.

Additional Factors and Common Disqualifiers

• Health and Lifestyle: No serious illnesses; stable home environment.

• Financial Stability: Proof of income and assets to support the child.

• Preferences and Waiting: Your preferences (age, gender, special needs) affect matching and wait times.

Common disqualifiers include unstable marriages, criminal history, or inability to meet age/financial thresholds.

How Professional Adoption Services Help You Navigate Eligibility

Determining eligibility can feel overwhelming, especially with paperwork and local variations. Reliable "adoption services" guide you through assessments, document preparation, and registration.

Lawchef offers expert support for families in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and beyond—helping confirm eligibility, complete CARINGS registration, and prepare for home studies. Many clients also need related legal documents post-adoption, such as family settlements. For these, trust lawyers for drafting agreement deed to create secure, enforceable papers. In Delhi, lawyers for rent deed drafting in Delhi assist with housing arrangements for your growing family, while agreement drafting services in Delhi provide comprehensive, error-free legal drafting for all needs.

Conclusion: Are You Eligible? Take the First Step Today

India's adoption laws promote inclusivity—single parents, married couples, and relatives can all adopt a child if they meet the criteria focused on capability and child welfare. As of 2026, the process remains child-centric, with digital tools making it more accessible.

If you meet the physical, emotional, financial, and age requirements, you're likely ready! Start by checking your eligibility on the CARA website or consulting experts.

Lawchef provides personalized "adoption services" to help you confirm eligibility, register smoothly, and move forward confidently—whether you're searching for "adoption near me" or nationwide guidance