Child Adoption in Mumbai: A Step-by-Step Guide



Adoption is one of the most meaningful ways to build a family, but in India it is also a carefully regulated legal process. In Mumbai, as in the rest of the country, the law ensures that adoption serves the best interest of the child while giving adoptive parents the rights and responsibilities of natural parents. If you are considering child adoption in Mumbai, here is a clear guide to help you understand the process.

Legal Framework

Adoption in India is primarily guided by two laws:

  1. The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 (JJ Act) – This law enables anyone, irrespective of religion, to adopt a child who has been abandoned, surrendered, or is in institutional care.

  2. The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA) – Applicable to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs, this law permits adoption within these communities.

  3. The Guardians and Wards Act, 1890 – For communities whose personal law does not allow adoption (such as Parsis, Christians, or Muslims), this Act allows them to become legal guardians of a child.

Who Can Adopt?

Eligibility criteria are clearly defined to ensure that only those who can provide stability and care may adopt:

  • Individuals or couples may adopt, whether they are Indian citizens, NRIs, or foreign nationals.

  • A married couple must have at least two years of stable marriage.

  • Single women may adopt a child of any gender.

  • Single men are usually not allowed to adopt a girl child.

  • Parents must be physically fit, mentally sound, and financially stable.

  • The minimum age gap between the child and adoptive parent should be 25 years.

  • Families with three or more children are generally restricted from adopting, except in special cases.

Documents Required

Prospective parents must submit a set of documents, which typically include:

  • Application for adoption

  • Proof of identity, age, and residence

  • Marriage certificate (for couples)

  • Recent photographs

  • Income proof (salary slips, IT returns)

  • Medical fitness certificate

  • Statement of reasons for adoption

  • Character references

These documents help the adoption agency and the court assess the preparedness of the adoptive family.

The Adoption Process in Mumbai

  1. Registration – Parents must register with a Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) or through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) portal.

  2. Home Study – A social worker visits the family to evaluate their readiness, living conditions, and overall suitability.

  3. Child Referral – Once approved, parents are matched with a child and given details of the child’s background and health.

  4. Acceptance – Parents confirm their willingness to adopt the referred child.

  5. Legal Petition – The agency files a petition in the relevant court to formalize the adoption.

  6. Court Hearing – The judge may ask questions and verify documents before granting approval.

  7. Adoption Order – Once the order is passed, the child is legally recognized as the adoptive child of the parents, with all rights equal to a biological child.

Final Thoughts

Child adoption in Mumbai may feel lengthy and procedural, but each step is designed to ensure that children are placed in safe, loving, and secure homes. For prospective parents, patience and preparedness are key. By understanding the laws, preparing the necessary documents, and cooperating with agencies, the journey of adoption can lead to one of the most fulfilling experiences of life.

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