{"id":1801,"date":"2022-07-24T13:48:24","date_gmt":"2022-07-24T13:48:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/?page_id=1801"},"modified":"2026-09-21T11:07:47","modified_gmt":"2026-09-21T11:07:47","slug":"adoption-in-turkey","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/adoption-in-turkey\/","title":{"rendered":"Adoption in Turkey"},"content":{"rendered":"<style id=\"cb-bh-css\">h1.cb-bh,h2.cb-bh{text-transform:uppercase}<\/style><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_small\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_275474cc has_text_color\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3390 size-us_800_400\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/adoption-in-turkey-800x400.jpg\" alt=\"adoption in turkey\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" \/><\/p>\n<style>nav.cb-toc{background:#fff;border:1px solid #8b3516;border-radius:6px;padding:10px 16px;margin:0 0 1.5em;display:table;max-width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;text-align:left}nav.cb-toc summary{cursor:pointer;font-weight:400;font-size:15px;color:#000;list-style:none;display:flex;align-items:center;gap:.5em}nav.cb-toc summary::-webkit-details-marker{display:none}nav.cb-toc summary:after{content:\"\\25BE\";color:#8b3516;transition:transform .2s}nav.cb-toc details[open] summary:after{transform:rotate(180deg)}nav.cb-toc ol{list-style:none;margin:8px 0 0;padding:0}nav.cb-toc ol ol{margin:2px 0 4px 4px;padding-left:14px;border-left:1px solid #e6dcd8}nav.cb-toc li{margin:4px 0;font-size:13.5px;line-height:1.45;color:#000}nav.cb-toc ol ol li{font-size:13px}nav.cb-toc a,nav.cb-toc a:visited{color:#000;text-decoration:none}nav.cb-toc ol ol a,nav.cb-toc ol ol a:visited{color:#444}nav.cb-toc a:hover,nav.cb-toc a:focus{color:#8b3516;text-decoration:underline}h1[id],h2[id],h3[id],h4[id]{scroll-margin-top:120px}html{scroll-behavior:smooth}<\/style><nav class=\"cb-toc\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\"><details><summary>Table of Contents<\/summary><ol><li><a href=\"#ADOPTION_CONDITIONS_AND_PROCEDURE_IN_TURKEY\">Adoption Conditions and Procedure in Turkey<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#WHAT_ARE_THE_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">What Are the Conditions for Adoption in Turkey?<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1_GENERAL_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">1. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR ADOPTION IN TURKEY<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2_SPECIFIC_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">2. SPECIFIC CONDITIONS FOR ADOPTION IN TURKEY<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#A_Joint_Adoption_by_Spouses_in_Turkey\">A. Joint Adoption by Spouses in Turkey<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#B_Adoption_of_a_Stepchild\">B. Adoption of a Stepchild<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#C_Adoption_by_Single_Individuals_in_Turkey\">C. Adoption by Single Individuals in Turkey<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#D_Adoption_by_Married_Individuals_Acting_Alone\">D. Adoption by Married Individuals Acting Alone<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#E_Other_Criteria_Considered_in_the_Adoption_Process_in_Turkey\">E. Other Criteria Considered in the Adoption Process in Turkey<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a href=\"#HOW_TO_ADOPT_A_CHILD_IN_TURKEY\">How to Adopt a Child in Turkey?<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1_ADOPTION_THROUGH_OFFICIAL_APPLICATION_IN_TURKEY\">1. ADOPTION THROUGH OFFICIAL APPLICATION IN TURKEY<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2_ADOPTION_BY_COURT_DECISION_IN_TURKEY\">2. ADOPTION BY COURT DECISION IN TURKEY<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a href=\"#AGE_AND_ELIGIBILITY_CRITERIA_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">Age and Eligibility Criteria for Adoption in Turkey<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1_Age_of_the_Adopted_Child\">1. Age of the Adopted Child<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2_Age_of_the_Adoptive_Parents\">2. Age of the Adoptive Parent(s)<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#3_Age_Difference_in_Adoption\">3. Age Difference in Adoption<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#4_Eligibility_Criteria_and_Additional_Assessments\">4. Eligibility Criteria and Additional Assessments<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a href=\"#THE_SAFETY_OF_THE_ADOPTED_CHILD\">The Safety of the Adopted Child<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#IS_IT_POSSIBLE_TO_ADOPT_ADULTS_AND_LEGALLY_RESTRICTED_PERSONS_IN_TURKEY\">Is It Possible to Adopt Adults and Legally Restricted Persons in Turkey?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#IS_IT_POSSIBLE_TO_ANNUL_AN_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">Is It Possible to Annul an Adoption in Turkey?<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1-_Grounds_for_Annulment_of_Adoption_in_Turkey\">1- Grounds for Annulment of Adoption in Turkey<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2-_Which_Court_Handles_Adoption_Annulment_Cases_in_Turkey\">2- Which Court Handles Adoption Annulment Cases in Turkey?<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a href=\"#LEGAL_STATUS_OF_AN_ADOPTED_CHILD_IN_CASE_OF_DIVORCE_IN_TURKEY\">Legal Status of an Adopted Child in Case of Divorce in Turkey<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#IS_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY_POSSIBLE_FOR_FOREIGNERS\">Is Adoption in Turkey Possible for Foreigners?<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1_Application_for_Adoption_in_the_Applicants_Home_Country_and_Eligibility_Approval\">1. Application for Adoption in the Applicant\u2019s Home Country and Eligibility Approval<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2_Cooperation_under_the_International_Convention_Framework\">2. Cooperation under the International Convention Framework<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#3_Evaluation_and_Approval_Process_in_Turkey\">3. Evaluation and Approval Process in Turkey<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><li><a href=\"#THE_PROCESS_OF_INTERNATIONAL_ADOPTION\">The Process of International Adoption<\/a><ol><li><a href=\"#1_Research\">1. Research<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#2_Application_and_Documents\">2. Application and Documents<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#3_Cooperation_with_Adoption_Agencies_or_Orphanages\">3. Cooperation with Adoption Agencies or Orphanages<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#4_Suitability_Evaluation\">4. Suitability Evaluation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#5_Temporary_Care_and_Bonding_Period\">5. Temporary Care and Bonding Period<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#6_Adoption_Approval\">6. Adoption Approval<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#7_Becoming_a_Legal_Family\">7. Becoming a Legal Family<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#8_Challenges_and_Considerations_in_International_Adoption\">8. Challenges and Considerations in International Adoption<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/li><\/ol><\/li><\/ol><\/details><\/nav>\n<h1 id=\"ADOPTION_CONDITIONS_AND_PROCEDURE_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Adoption Conditions and Procedure in Turkey<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p><strong>Adoption in Turkey<\/strong> is a meticulous process aimed at <strong>protecting the best interests and welfare of the child<\/strong> while regulating the responsibilities of families within a legal framework. <strong>Adoption procedures are governed by<\/strong> <strong>Articles 305\u2013320 of the Turkish Civil Code<\/strong> and are carried out in accordance with both general and specific conditions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The general requirements for adoption in Turkey prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of the child<\/strong>, requiring that the adoptive parent(s) possess sufficient <strong>financial and emotional capacity<\/strong> to meet the child\u2019s needs. Additionally, the <strong>protection of the interests of existing children<\/strong> and <strong>the preservation of healthy family dynamics<\/strong> are also taken into consideration.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The specific conditions for adoption in Turkey<\/strong> include factors such as the applicant\u2019s <strong>marital status, age, health condition, and social environment<\/strong>. Married couples may apply jointly for adoption, while single individuals are also permitted to apply independently. The adoption process is conducted through <strong>official adoption authorities and courts<\/strong>, and includes several stages such as <strong>application, psychological assessments, home visits, and participation in training programs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>In the adoption process in Turkey, the consent and opinions of the child are also important.<\/strong> While the preferences of older children are taken into account, for younger children,<strong> the<\/strong> <strong>best interests and welfare of the child<\/strong> remain the primary consideration. Upon completion of the process,<strong> the adoptive parents become<\/strong> <strong>the child\u2019s<\/strong> <strong>legal parents<\/strong>, and the child is granted full legal rights, including <strong>lineage, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/inheritance-law-in-turkey\/\">inheritance rights<\/a>, and other legal entitlements<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox us_custom_aea21514 iconpos_left style_default color_secondary align_left no_title\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-icon\" style=\"font-size:30px;\"><i class=\"far fa-gavel\"><\/i><\/div><div class=\"w-iconbox-meta\"><div class=\"w-iconbox-text\"><p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mevzuat.gov.tr\/mevzuatmetin\/1.5.4721.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Article 305 of the Turkish Civil Code<\/a><\/strong> &#8211; The adoption of a minor is subject to the condition that the minor has been cared for and raised by the adopting party for a period of one year. Furthermore, adoption must always be in the best interest of the child and should not unduly harm the interests of the adopting party&#8217;s other children in any way contrary to fairness.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_275474cc has_text_color\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 id=\"WHAT_ARE_THE_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>What Are the Conditions for Adoption in Turkey?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The adoption process in Turkey is conducted with great care in order to protect the rights and best interests of the child while also regulating the responsibilities of families within a legal framework.<\/strong> Individuals who wish to apply for adoption must meet certain requirements, which are evaluated under <strong>general and specific criteria<\/strong>. Working with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/divorce-lawyer-in-turkey\/\">a family law attorney in Turkey<\/a><\/strong> can be beneficial for ensuring compliance with these requirements throughout the adoption process.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1_GENERAL_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">1. GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR ADOPTION IN TURKEY<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The general conditions sought in the adoption process in Turkey<\/strong> focus on the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong> and apply to all prospective adoptive parents:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Consideration of the child\u2019s best interests:<\/strong> The primary purpose of adoption is to ensure the <strong>health, safety, and well-being<\/strong> of the child.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Capacity to provide care and education:<\/strong> Prospective adoptive parents must have sufficient <strong>financial and emotional resources<\/strong> to meet the child\u2019s needs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Protection of existing children\u2019s interests:<\/strong> The adoption must not negatively affect the <strong>family dynamics or the well-being of existing children<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Child\u2019s consent and interests:<\/strong> The <strong>preferences and opinions of older children<\/strong> are taken into account, while for younger children, <strong>their safety and development<\/strong> are prioritized.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"2_SPECIFIC_CONDITIONS_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\">2. SPECIFIC CONDITIONS FOR ADOPTION IN TURKEY<\/h3>\n<p><strong>The specific conditions for adoption in Turkey<\/strong> vary depending on whether the prospective adoptive parent is <strong>married, single, or has an existing family structure<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<h4 id=\"A_Joint_Adoption_by_Spouses_in_Turkey\">A. Joint Adoption by Spouses in Turkey<\/h4>\n<p><strong>The Turkish Civil Code does not grant the right of joint adoption to unmarried individuals<\/strong> (<strong>Art. 306\/1<\/strong>). Therefore, for joint adoption, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/marriage-in-turkey\/\"><strong>the marital relationship<\/strong><\/a><strong> must be established at the time of application<\/strong>. In addition, the child must have been cared for and educated by both spouses for a period of <strong>at least one year<\/strong> under <strong>Article 305<\/strong>. This one-year requirement does not replace the marriage requirement; it is a separate condition applied alongside it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>For a joint adoption to take place:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The spouses must have been <strong>married for at least 5 years<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li><strong>or<\/strong> both spouses must have <strong>reached the age of 30<\/strong> (Art. 306\/2). These two conditions are alternatives; satisfying one of them is sufficient.<\/li>\n<li>In addition, a child who has the <strong>capacity of discernment<\/strong> may not be adopted without their consent (Art. 308\/2).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 id=\"B_Adoption_of_a_Stepchild\">B. Adoption of a Stepchild<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Article 306\/3 of the Turkish Civil Code sets forth special provisions regarding the adoption of a spouse\u2019s child.<\/strong> Accordingly, one spouse may adopt the other spouse\u2019s child provided that:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The spouses have been <strong>married for at least 2 years<\/strong>, or<\/li>\n<li>The adopting spouse has <strong>reached the age of 30<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 id=\"C_Adoption_by_Single_Individuals_in_Turkey\">C. Adoption by Single Individuals in Turkey<\/h4>\n<p>Pursuant to <strong>Article 307\/1 of the Turkish Civil Code<\/strong>, single individuals who have <strong>reached the age of 30<\/strong> may adopt a child on their own. However, they must also fulfill the <strong>general adoption conditions<\/strong> set out under <strong>Article 305<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h4 id=\"D_Adoption_by_Married_Individuals_Acting_Alone\">D. Adoption by Married Individuals Acting Alone<\/h4>\n<p>According to <strong>Article 307\/2 of the Turkish Civil Code<\/strong>, a married individual who has reached <strong>the age of 30 may adopt a child individually<\/strong> if they can prove one of the following circumstances:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The other spouse is <strong>permanently incapable of discernment<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>The whereabouts of the other spouse have been <strong>unknown for more than 2 years<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>The spouses have been <strong>living separately for more than 2 years<\/strong> based on a <strong>court decision<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 id=\"E_Other_Criteria_Considered_in_the_Adoption_Process_in_Turkey\">E. Other Criteria Considered in the Adoption Process in Turkey<\/h4>\n<p><strong>The adoption process in Turkey<\/strong> is carried out with a focus on the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong>, taking into account various criteria such as the prospective parents\u2019 <strong>physical and psychological health<\/strong>, <strong>income level<\/strong> <strong>(including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/company-types-in-turkey\/\">company partnerships<\/a> under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/corporate-law-in-turkey\/\">corporate law<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/tenants-rights-in-turkey\/\">rental income<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/types-of-employment-contracts\/\">employment contracts<\/a>, movable and immovable assets)<\/strong>, <strong>education level<\/strong>, and <strong>family relationships<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Additionally, the following factors are carefully evaluated:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The applicants\u2019 <strong>child-rearing skills<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>Their <strong>motivation for adoption<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>The type of <strong>relationship they intend to establish with the child<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>Whether they are <strong>adequately prepared for adoption<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"max-width: 680px; margin: 24px auto; background: #fffdfb; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; border-radius: 8px; overflow: hidden;\">\n<div style=\"background: #8b3516; color: #fff; padding: 10px 14px; text-align: center; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;\">\u2696\ufe0f GENERAL AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ADOPTION IN TURKEY<\/div>\n<div style=\"overflow-x: auto;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; min-width: 560px; border-collapse: collapse; table-layout: fixed; font-size: 11.5px; line-height: 1.4;\">\n<thead>\n<tr style=\"background: #f6ede9;\">\n<th style=\"width: 50%; padding: 9px 10px; text-align: left; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; color: #8b3516; font-weight: bold;\">\ud83d\udc76 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS<\/th>\n<th style=\"width: 50%; padding: 9px 10px; text-align: left; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; color: #8b3516; font-weight: bold;\">\u2696\ufe0f SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #fff;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udc76 Best Interests of the Child<\/strong><br \/>\nThe child&#8217;s health, safety and well-being are taken into consideration.<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #f6ede9;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udc8d Joint Adoption by Spouses<\/strong><br \/>\nRequirements concerning marriage, age and duration of marriage apply.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #f6ede9;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83c\udfe0 Capacity for Care and Education<\/strong><br \/>\nThe ability to meet the child&#8217;s care and educational needs is assessed.<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #fff;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udc68\u200d\ud83d\udc69\u200d\ud83d\udc67 Adoption of a Stepchild<\/strong><br \/>\nSpecial requirements apply when one spouse seeks to adopt the other spouse&#8217;s child.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #fff;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udc68\u200d\ud83d\udc69\u200d\ud83d\udc67 Protection of Existing Children&#8217;s Interests<\/strong><br \/>\nThe potential impact of the adoption on existing children is taken into account.<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #f6ede9;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udc64 Adoption by Single Persons<\/strong><br \/>\nPersons aged 30 or over may adopt individually if the statutory requirements are met.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #f6ede9;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udcac Consent and Views of the Child<\/strong><br \/>\nThe child&#8217;s views and safety are assessed according to the child&#8217;s age and level of development.<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #fff;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\u2696\ufe0f Individual Adoption by a Married Person<\/strong><br \/>\nIndividual adoption is possible where the special circumstances specified by law exist.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #fff;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udd0e General Suitability of Applicants<\/strong><br \/>\nFactors such as health, income, education and family relationships are assessed.<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 8px 10px; vertical-align: top; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; background: #f6ede9;\"><strong style=\"color: #8b3516;\">\ud83d\udccb Other Special Considerations<\/strong><br \/>\nParenting skills, motivation and preparedness for adoption are taken into consideration.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"HOW_TO_ADOPT_A_CHILD_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>How to Adopt a Child in Turkey?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Adoption in Turkey is a process that both protects the rights and best interests of the child and regulates the responsibilities of families within a legal framework.<\/strong> Under the Turkish Civil Code, the adoption relationship is established by a court decision, once <strong>the consents required by law \u2014 including that of a child who has the capacity of discernment<\/strong> \u2014 and the other statutory conditions have been satisfied.<\/p>\n<p>This process is carried out in <strong>two main stages: the administrative application phase and the court decision phase<\/strong>. An adoption cannot be created by an agreement between the parties within <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/contract-law-in-turkey\/\">the scope of Turkish contract law<\/a>; the relationship arises from the court decision<\/strong>. The consents required by the Code are mandatory, but they take effect only when declared in the statutory form and recorded before the court.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1_ADOPTION_THROUGH_OFFICIAL_APPLICATION_IN_TURKEY\"><strong>1. ADOPTION THROUGH OFFICIAL APPLICATION IN TURKEY<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>In Turkey, adoption through official application is conducted via the <strong>provincial and district directorates of social services<\/strong> under the <strong>Ministry of Family and Social Services<\/strong>. The key aspects of this process are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Competent authority:<\/strong> Applications are received by <strong>the provincial or district social services directorates<\/strong>, while the adoption units of the Ministry supervise the process.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Application process:<\/strong> Prospective adoptive parents submit their applications with the required documents. Social services evaluate <strong>the applicant\u2019s<\/strong> <strong>physical and psychological health<\/strong>, <strong>financial status<\/strong> <strong>(including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/title-search-process-in-turkey\/\">land registry records<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/selling-property-lower-than-circle-rate\/\">real estate values<\/a>, movable assets, and regular income),<\/strong> <strong>education level<\/strong>, <strong>family relationships<\/strong>, and <strong>child-rearing abilities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Psychological assessment and home visits:<\/strong> Applicants undergo <strong>psychological evaluations, home visits, and training programs<\/strong>. All information shared during this process is protected in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/data-protection-in-turkey\/\"><strong>data protection and confidentiality principles<\/strong><\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Temporary care period:<\/strong> Once the temporary care agreement is signed, the child is placed with the prospective family for <strong>at least one year<\/strong>. This period is distinct from foster care, which is a separate service. During this time, <strong>the child\u2019s adaptation to the family environment<\/strong> and the applicant\u2019s caregiving capacity are assessed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Child\u2019s consent:<\/strong> The consent of children with <strong>capacity of discernment<\/strong> is obtained; for younger children, <strong>their safety and development<\/strong> remain the primary concern.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This method is <strong>closely supervised by state authorities<\/strong>, ensuring that the child\u2019s best interests are fully protected.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2_ADOPTION_BY_COURT_DECISION_IN_TURKEY\"><strong>2. ADOPTION BY COURT DECISION IN TURKEY<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Adoption by court decision in Turkey is considered a non-contentious judicial proceeding<\/strong>, meaning it is conducted without a dispute between the parties. The court process operates as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Competent court:<\/strong> Adoption cases in Turkey are heard by the <strong>Family Courts<\/strong>. In <strong>individual adoption<\/strong>, the court at the adopter\u2019s place of residence has jurisdiction. In <strong>joint adoption<\/strong>, the court at the residence of either spouse is competent.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Application requirements:<\/strong> Before applying to the court in Turkey, the applicant must submit documentation proving that all <strong>general and specific conditions<\/strong> under the Turkish Civil Code have been fulfilled.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Court procedure:<\/strong> The court examines the application and supporting documents, evaluates the <strong>child\u2019s consent<\/strong> and the <strong>suitability of the adoptive family<\/strong>, and may cooperate with social services if necessary.<\/li>\n<li><strong>One-year care requirement:<\/strong> The court requires that the child must have been <strong>cared for and educated by the adoptive parent(s) for at least one year<\/strong> before granting the adoption. This period serves to assess compatibility and the ability of <strong>the adoptive parent(s) to fulfill their responsibilities.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Legal consequences:<\/strong> Upon a court decision, a <strong>legal parent-child relationship (lineage)<\/strong> is established between the adoptive parent(s) and the adoptee. This relationship gives rise to significant legal consequences, including the adoptee\u2019s <strong>inheritance rights<\/strong> (<strong>such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/probate-in-turkey\/\">succession probate<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/real-estate-law-in-turkey\/\">real estate rights<\/a>)<\/strong> and a <strong>prohibition of marriage<\/strong> between the adoptive parent and the adoptee, and between either of them and the other\u2019s descendants or spouse (Art. 129\/3). Additionally, where the adoptee is a minor they <strong>take the surname of the adoptive parent(s)<\/strong> as of right, and the adoptive parent may give the child a new first name; an adoptee who is already of age may choose to take that surname at the time of adoption (Art. 314\/3). Furthermore, if the adoptee is faced with a <strong>debt-laden inheritance from their biological family<\/strong>, they retain the right to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/disclaimer-of-inheritance\/\"><strong>renounce the inheritance<\/strong><\/a> in accordance with the relevant legal provisions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Citizenship status:<\/strong> Although there is no specific provision in the Turkish Civil Code, <strong>a person who is not of age and is adopted by a Turkish citizen<\/strong> may <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/turkish-citizenship\/\"><strong>acquire Turkish citizenship<\/strong><\/a> as of the date of the decision, provided there is no obstacle in terms of national security and public order, under <strong>Article 17 of the<\/strong> <strong>Turkish Citizenship Law<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"max-width: 620px; margin: 24px auto; background: #fffdfb; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; border-radius: 8px; overflow: hidden;\">\n<div style=\"background: #8b3516; color: #fff; padding: 10px 14px; text-align: center; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold;\">\u2696\ufe0f HOW TO ADOPT A CHILD IN TURKEY?<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 10px;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 6px; table-layout: fixed; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.4;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%; padding: 10px; vertical-align: top; background: #f6ede9; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px;\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size: 11.5px; font-weight: bold; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 7px;\">ADOPTION THROUGH OFFICIAL APPLICATION<\/div>\n<div style=\"color: #333;\">Applications are submitted to the provincial or district social services directorates. The process is carried out and supervised by the relevant units of the Ministry of Family and Social Services.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%; padding: 10px; vertical-align: top; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px;\">\u2696\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size: 11.5px; font-weight: bold; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 7px;\">ADOPTION BY COURT DECISION<\/div>\n<div style=\"color: #333;\">Adoption proceedings are heard by the Family Courts. For individual adoption, the court of the adopter&#8217;s place of residence has jurisdiction; for joint adoption, the court of the place of residence of either spouse has jurisdiction.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"AGE_AND_ELIGIBILITY_CRITERIA_FOR_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Age and Eligibility Criteria for Adoption in Turkey<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>The age and eligibility criteria for adoption in Turkey<\/strong> are established to both <strong>protect the best interests of the child<\/strong> and ensure that the adoptive parent(s) have the capacity to fulfill their responsibilities. These criteria are applied in accordance with the <strong>Turkish Civil Code<\/strong> <strong>and relevant international adoption regulations.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1_Age_of_the_Adopted_Child\"><strong>1. Age of the Adopted Child<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>In Turkey, the age of the child to be adopted is determined in relation to <strong>the age and caregiving capacity of the adoptive parent(s).<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The adopted child must be at least <strong>18 years younger<\/strong> than the adoptive parent(s).<\/li>\n<li>This age difference ensures that the adoption relationship is established within a <strong>natural caregiving hierarchy<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>In international adoptions, the child\u2019s age is also assessed in relation to the applicant\u2019s nationality and the child\u2019s ability to <strong>adapt culturally and socially<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"2_Age_of_the_Adoptive_Parents\"><strong>2. Age of the Adoptive Parent(s)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Under Turkish law,<\/strong> <strong>individuals applying for adoption must have reached at least 30 years of age<\/strong>. For <strong>married couples<\/strong>, joint adoption requires that the spouses have been married for at least <strong>5 years<\/strong> or that both spouses have reached the age of 30; these conditions are alternatives (Art. 306\/2). For <strong>single applicants<\/strong>, the age requirement also applies, along with an assessment of their <strong>physical and psychological maturity<\/strong> to meet the child\u2019s needs.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3_Age_Difference_in_Adoption\"><strong>3. Age Difference in Adoption<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>The age difference between the adoptive parent(s) and the adopted child<\/strong> is a key factor in ensuring a stable caregiving relationship.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Turkish law requires a <strong>minimum age difference of 18 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>This rule ensures that the child\u2019s developmental needs are properly met and that a <strong>natural family hierarchy<\/strong> is maintained.<\/li>\n<li>In international adoption cases, similar requirements apply, and some jurisdictions may require an age difference of up to <strong>20 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"4_Eligibility_Criteria_and_Additional_Assessments\"><strong>4. Eligibility Criteria and Additional Assessments<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>In addition to age requirements, the adoptive parent(s)\u2019 <strong>physical and psychological health<\/strong>, <strong>financial status<\/strong> <strong>(including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/labor-law-in-turkey\/\">employment income<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/business-law-in-turkey\/\">commercial earnings<\/a>, etc.),<\/strong> <strong>education level<\/strong>, and <strong>family relationships<\/strong> are carefully assessed.<\/p>\n<p>In cases of <strong>international adoption<\/strong>, the applicant\u2019s ability to ensure the child\u2019s <strong>successful adaptation<\/strong>, as well as their capacity to cope with <strong>cultural and linguistic differences<\/strong>, is also taken into consideration. Compliance with these criteria is essential to <strong>safeguard the<\/strong> <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong> and to ensure the successful completion of the adoption process.<\/p>\n<p><a ref=\"magnificPopup\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/lahy-avukat-2-min-e1735844176923.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-us_800_400 wp-image-5687\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/lahy-avukat-2-min-800x215.jpg\" alt=\"Child abduction legal advice in Turkey\" width=\"800\" height=\"215\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"THE_SAFETY_OF_THE_ADOPTED_CHILD\" class=\"cb-bh\">The Safety of the Adopted Child<\/h2>\n<p><strong>In Turkey, the safety of the child is one of the highest priorities in the adoption process, and all legal regulations and procedures are structured to ensure this protection.<\/strong> Issues related to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/child-custody-in-turkey\/\">the child\u2019s custody<\/a> and security<\/strong> are of fundamental importance throughout the adoption process. In this context, <strong>the age factor is also considered a key criterion.<\/strong> The adopted child must be at least <strong>18 years younger<\/strong> <strong>than the adoptive parent(s)<\/strong>, ensuring a proper and healthy adoption relationship and enabling the adoptive parent(s) to effectively fulfill their responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p><strong>During the adoption process in Turkey, the child\u2019s consent is also mandatory.<\/strong> Children with the <strong>capacity of discernment<\/strong> must give their consent for the adoption to be finalized. However, if a minor child is under guardianship, approval from the <strong>guardianship authorities<\/strong> is required. In such cases, <strong>the<\/strong> <strong>best interests and welfare of the child are always given priority.<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/domestic-violence-in-turkey\/\"><strong>Protective measures<\/strong><\/a>, <strong>such as removal orders, may be applied in situations where the child\u2019s safety is at risk.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>As a rule, for a child to be adopted in Turkey the consent of both the mother and the father is required; the consent of only one parent is not sufficient.<\/strong> Under Article 311, however, a parent\u2019s consent is not sought where <strong>their identity or their place of residence has long been unknown, where they permanently lack the capacity of discernment, or where they fail to discharge their duty of care towards the child<\/strong>. Such consent is declared <strong>orally or in writing before the court<\/strong> of the child\u2019s or parents\u2019 place of residence and is recorded in the official minutes. A declaration of consent may only be given after <strong>at least six weeks from the child\u2019s birth<\/strong> and must be <strong>clear and unequivocal<\/strong>. Similarly, parental consent regarding adoption is also recorded officially and <strong>may be withdrawn within<\/strong> <strong>six weeks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The adoption process in Turkey is conducted with the aim of ensuring the<\/strong> <strong>best interests and safety of the child<\/strong>. All steps are carefully carried out with due regard to <strong>the child\u2019s consent, the suitability of the family, and the child\u2019s welfare.<\/strong> In this way, adopted children are provided with a <strong>loving family environment<\/strong> and are able to build strong bonds with their new families.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"IS_IT_POSSIBLE_TO_ADOPT_ADULTS_AND_LEGALLY_RESTRICTED_PERSONS_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Is It Possible to Adopt Adults and Legally Restricted Persons in Turkey?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>In Turkey, the adoption of adults and legally restricted persons is possible only under<\/strong> <strong>special conditions<\/strong>. The following requirements must be satisfied:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The adoptee must be <strong>permanently in need of care and assistance<\/strong> due to a physical or mental disability, and must have been <strong>cared for and supervised by the adoptive parent(s) for at least 5 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Alternatively, the adoptee must have been <strong>raised and educated by the adoptive parent(s) for at least 5 years during their childhood<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other just causes<\/strong> must exist and the adoptee must have been <strong>living as a family with the adoptive parent for at least 5 years<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>If the person being adopted is married, the <strong>consent of that person\u2019s spouse is required<\/strong> (Art. 313\/2).<\/li>\n<li>The <strong>express consent of the adoptive parent\u2019s descendants (lineal offspring)<\/strong> must be obtained. The former rule, which required that there be no descendants at all, was replaced by Law No. 5399 (Official Gazette, 15.07.2005).<\/li>\n<li>In cases involving restricted persons, situations such as <strong>abuse of power of attorney in property management<\/strong> and disputes like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/title-deed-cancellation-and-registration-lawsuit\/\"><strong>annulment and title deed cancellation cases<\/strong><\/a> are carefully examined by the authorities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition to these requirements, <strong>the provisions applicable to the adoption of minors may also be applied by analogy to adults<\/strong> and restricted persons where appropriate. These legal conditions are designed to <strong>prevent misuse of the adoption institution<\/strong> and ensure that adoption serves legitimate care and protection purposes.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-us_800_400 wp-image-3385\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/evlat-edinme-sartlari-800x257.jpg\" alt=\"international adoption\" width=\"800\" height=\"257\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"IS_IT_POSSIBLE_TO_ANNUL_AN_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Is It Possible to Annul an Adoption in Turkey?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>In Turkey, the adoption relationship may be terminated in certain cases on legal grounds.<\/strong> This is regulated under <strong>Articles 317 and 318 of the Turkish Civil Code<\/strong>, which allow for the annulment of an adoption decision.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1-_Grounds_for_Annulment_of_Adoption_in_Turkey\"><strong>1- Grounds for Annulment of Adoption in Turkey<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>An adoption decision in Turkey may be annulled in the following situations:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>If, despite being legally required, the <strong>consent of the necessary parties has not been obtained<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<li>If there is a <strong>significant legal defect<\/strong> in the adoption process or if the <strong>legal requirements for adoption were not fulfilled<\/strong>,<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Where the required consent was not obtained, the action may be brought by <strong>the persons whose consent was required<\/strong> (Art. 317); where the adoption is defective for any other substantive reason, it may be brought by <strong>the Public Prosecutor or any interested party<\/strong> (Art. 318).<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2-_Which_Court_Handles_Adoption_Annulment_Cases_in_Turkey\"><strong>2- Which Court Handles Adoption Annulment Cases in Turkey?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>An annulment action in Turkey must be filed before the<\/strong> <strong>same court that issued the adoption decision<\/strong>. The annulment of adoption is evaluated <strong>within the scope of family law, similar to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/divorce-in-turkey\/\">divorce cases<\/a>.<\/strong> When reviewing the case, the court prioritizes both the <strong>rights of the parties<\/strong> and the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>An adoption annulment lawsuit in Turkey must be filed within<\/strong> <strong>one year from the date on which the reason for annulment is learned<\/strong>. The second time limit in Article 319 \u2014 <strong>five years from the date of the adoption decision<\/strong> \u2014 was annulled by the Constitutional Court by its decision of 27.12.2012, No. E.2012\/35, K.2012\/203 (Official Gazette, 12.07.2013, No. 28705) and is no longer in force.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Adoption annulment cases in Turkey function as a judicial review mechanism for assessing the legal validity of adoption.<\/strong> They typically arise in cases involving:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Serious <strong>legal or procedural defects<\/strong> in the adoption process,<\/li>\n<li><strong>Non-fulfillment of the legal requirements<\/strong> for adoption.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In such proceedings, courts are obliged to ensure <strong>justice<\/strong> while primarily safeguarding the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div style=\"max-width: 620px; margin: 24px auto; background: #fffdfb; border: 1px solid #eadbd3; border-radius: 8px; overflow: hidden;\">\n<div style=\"background: #8b3516; color: #fff; padding: 10px 14px; text-align: center; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold;\">\u26a0\ufe0f KEY POINTS IN AN ADOPTION ANNULMENT ACTION IN TURKEY<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 10px;\">\n<table style=\"width: 100%; border-collapse: separate; border-spacing: 6px; table-layout: fixed; font-size: 10.8px; line-height: 1.35;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 10px; background: #fff3ed; border: 2px solid #8b3516; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\u23f1\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size: 12px; font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 3px;\">1-YEAR LIMITATION PERIOD<\/div>\n<div style=\"color: #333;\">The action must be filed <strong>within 1 year<\/strong> from the date on which the ground for annulment is learned.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"width: 50%; padding: 9px; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 4px;\">COMPETENT COURT<\/div>\n<div>The court that issued the adoption decision.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 50%; padding: 9px; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\u2696\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 4px;\">LEGAL BASIS<\/div>\n<div>Turkish Civil Code, Article 319.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 9px; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\ud83d\udccc<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 4px;\">WHEN DOES IT ARISE?<\/div>\n<div>In cases involving serious legal errors or deficiencies in the adoption requirements.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding: 9px; background: #fff; border: 1px solid #000; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top;\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\ud83d\udc76<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 4px;\">COURT&#8217;S ASSESSMENT<\/div>\n<div>The court considers the rights of the parties together with the best interests of the child.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"padding: 10px; background: #fff3ed; border: 2px solid #8b3516; border-radius: 5px; text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\">\n<div style=\"font-size: 21px; margin-bottom: 4px;\">\u26a0\ufe0f<\/div>\n<div style=\"font-size: 12px; font-weight: 800; color: #8b3516; margin-bottom: 3px;\">THE 5-YEAR PERIOD IS NO LONGER IN FORCE<\/div>\n<div style=\"color: #333;\">The second limitation period stating \u201cin any event, five years\u201d under Article 319 of the Turkish Civil Code was annulled by the Constitutional Court&#8217;s decision dated 27 December 2012.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"LEGAL_STATUS_OF_AN_ADOPTED_CHILD_IN_CASE_OF_DIVORCE_IN_TURKEY\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Legal Status of an Adopted Child in Case of Divorce in Turkey<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>In the context of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/guide-to-divorce-in-turkey\/\">divorce proceedings in Turkey<\/a><\/strong>, the legal status of an adopted child under Turkish family law is <strong>equivalent to that of a biological child<\/strong>, and the adoption relationship <strong>does not terminate as a result of divorce<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>If the divorce is not by mutual agreement, such as <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/uncontested-divorce-process-in-turkey\/\"><strong>uncontested divorce in Turkey<\/strong><\/a>, matters such as <strong>custody (guardianship), the establishment of personal contact with the non-custodial parent, and contribution to the child\u2019s maintenance expenses<\/strong> are determined by the court in accordance with the <strong>principle of the best interests of the child<\/strong>. In particular, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/child-support-in-turkey\/\">child support<\/a> <\/strong>also applies to adopted children in the same manner as biological children.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, <strong>spousal support (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/alimony-in-turkey\/\">divorce alimony in Turkey<\/a>)<\/strong> is regulated based on the financial circumstances of the spouses, while also taking into account the needs of the child. <strong>Unpaid alimony obligations may be enforced through<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/debt-enforcement-in-turkey\/\"><strong>enforcement and bankruptcy law remedies<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>On the other hand, <strong>agreements concluded between spouses before or during marriage, such as<\/strong> <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/pre-nuptial-agreements-in-turkey\/\">prenuptial agreements<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/marriage-contract-in-turkey\/\">marital property agreements<\/a><\/strong>, may indirectly affect the financial and legal situation of the child, <strong>although not directly determinative.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In cases involving international elements, issues such as <strong>the<\/strong> <strong>removal of the child abroad by one parent or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/family-law\/international-child-abduction\/\">international child abduction<\/a><\/strong> may trigger mechanisms for <strong>the return of the child to their habitual residence in cases of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/parental-abduction\/\">parental abduction<\/a><\/strong>. These processes are handled through a combination of <strong>international conventions and domestic law provisions<\/strong>. In such cases, seeking assistance from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/practice-areas\/international-child-abduction-lawyer-in-turkey\/\"><strong>an international child abduction lawyer in Turkey<\/strong><\/a> may be important for the effective management of the legal process.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"IS_ADOPTION_IN_TURKEY_POSSIBLE_FOR_FOREIGNERS\" class=\"cb-bh\"><strong>Is Adoption in Turkey Possible for Foreigners?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong>For foreign nationals adopting in Turkey, capacity and the conditions of adoption are governed by the national law of each party at the time of the adoption, under Article 18\/1 of the Turkish Act on Private International and Procedural Law (Law No. 5718)<\/strong>, while the procedure and the applicants\u2019 status in Turkey are assessed within <strong>the framework of<\/strong> <strong>foreigners\u2019 law<\/strong>. However, international adoption procedures require the coordinated application of both <strong>Turkish law, the applicant\u2019s national law, and international cooperation mechanisms<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>For foreign applicants, <strong>their legal residence status in Turkey is also important<\/strong>; any potential issues such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/residence-permit-refusal-appeal-in-turkey\/\"><strong>a rejection of residence permit and related appeal procedures<\/strong><\/a> may be critical to ensure that the process is not disrupted. In addition, for individuals intending to establish long-term residence in Turkey, <strong>understanding the conditions for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/foreigners-buying-property-in-turkey\/\">foreign ownership of immovable property in Turkey<\/a> may also be beneficial.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1_Application_for_Adoption_in_the_Applicants_Home_Country_and_Eligibility_Approval\">1. Application for Adoption in the Applicant\u2019s Home Country and Eligibility Approval<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Before initiating the adoption process in Turkey, a foreign national must first apply to the competent authorities in their own country to obtain an eligibility (suitability) approval.<\/strong> This assessment confirms that the applicant meets the adoption requirements under their national law and is considered suitable to enter into an international adoption process. T<strong>his approval constitutes one of the essential preconditions for communication and procedural steps with Turkish authorities.<\/strong> Without obtaining this <strong>eligibility certificate, adoption procedures cannot be initiated in Turkey.<\/strong> The document is recognized as a <strong>mutually accepted instrument<\/strong> within the framework of international cooperation.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2_Cooperation_under_the_International_Convention_Framework\">2. Cooperation under the International Convention Framework<\/h3>\n<p>In intercountry adoption processes involving foreign nationals, the <strong>Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption<\/strong>, to which Turkey is a party, serves as the applicable legal framework. This Convention ensures that intercountry adoption is carried out in accordance with the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong>, <strong>facilitates coordination between national authorities, and aims to prevent unlawful practices.<\/strong> It establishes a system of cooperation through <strong>central authorities<\/strong> <strong>and requires that the conditions approved by one state are verified by the competent authority of the other state.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3_Evaluation_and_Approval_Process_in_Turkey\">3. Evaluation and Approval Process in Turkey<\/h3>\n<p><strong>After obtaining eligibility approval in their home country, foreign applicants must apply to the relevant Turkish authorities, such as the Ministry of Family and Social Services and affiliated social service units, as well as Family Courts<\/strong>. In Turkey, the evaluation process examines compliance with the requirements set out in the <strong>Turkish Civil Code<\/strong>, <strong>including whether the applicant has the capacity to meet the child\u2019s care and developmental needs.<\/strong> Financial capability is also assessed, with particular attention to <strong>the documentation and reliability of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/taxation-of-foreign-sourced-income-in-turkey\/\">foreign income<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/tax-on-foreign-income-in-turkey\/\">foreign sourced wage<\/a><\/strong>. The process further includes <strong>psychosocial assessments, home visits, and any additional investigations<\/strong> deemed necessary.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-us_800_400 wp-image-3387\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-800x202.jpg\" alt=\"foreign adoption\" width=\"800\" height=\"202\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-800x202.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-300x76.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-1024x259.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-100x25.jpg 100w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-90x23.jpg 90w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme-120x30.jpg 120w, https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/yabanci-ulkeden-evlat-edinme.jpg 1274w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"THE_PROCESS_OF_INTERNATIONAL_ADOPTION\" class=\"cb-bh\">The Process of International Adoption<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Adopting a child from a foreign country<\/strong> <strong>is the process by which a family adopts a child from another country, granting the child legal rights as a member of the adopting family.<\/strong> It is typically arranged through <strong>a local orphanage, child welfare agency, or an international adoption agency.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"1_Research\"><strong>1. Research<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Before initiating <strong>the international adoption process<\/strong>, it is essential to conduct comprehensive research on the <strong>adoption requirements of the foreign country<\/strong>. Adoption laws, eligibility criteria, and procedural rules differ from country to country; therefore, <strong>careful research is crucial in determining the most suitable jurisdiction for adoption.<\/strong> This step ensures that the applicant understands the <strong>legal framework, administrative requirements, and procedural timeline<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2_Application_and_Documents\"><strong>2. Application and Documents<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>To initiate the adoption process, applicants are generally required to submit an official application to the <strong>competent authorities in their country of residence<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>This application is supported by various documents demonstrating the applicant\u2019s suitability for adoption. These typically include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Medical \/ health reports<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Financial statements and income documentation<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Reference letters<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Criminal background checks<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Home study \/ home visit reports<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>After submission, official communication is established between the authorities of the applicant\u2019s country and the country from which the child will be adopted, and the <strong>international adoption procedure formally begins<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3_Cooperation_with_Adoption_Agencies_or_Orphanages\"><strong>3. Cooperation with Adoption Agencies or Orphanages<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>During <strong>the international adoption process<\/strong>, applicants may be required to cooperate with <strong>authorized adoption agencies, accredited intermediaries, or local child welfare institutions<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>These institutions play a key role in:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Assessing the <strong>legal and social situation of the child<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Matching the child<\/strong> with a suitable family<\/li>\n<li><strong>Facilitating communication<\/strong> between the parties<\/li>\n<li>Ensuring compliance with <strong>international and national adoption regulations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"4_Suitability_Evaluation\"><strong>4. Suitability Evaluation<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Applicants are required to undergo a detailed <strong>suitability assessment process<\/strong>, which may include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Structured interviews<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Home visits conducted by social workers<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Parenting education and training seminars<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Psychological evaluations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The main objective of this stage is to determine whether the adoptive family can provide a <strong>safe, stable, and developmentally supportive environment<\/strong> for the child and whether they are capable of meeting the child\u2019s <strong>emotional, physical, and social needs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"5_Temporary_Care_and_Bonding_Period\"><strong>5. Temporary Care and Bonding Period<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>In many international adoption systems,<strong> a<\/strong> <strong>temporary care or pre-adoption bonding period<\/strong> is required before the adoption is finalized.<\/p>\n<p><strong>During this period:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The child begins <strong>to live with or spend time with the prospective adoptive family<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>A<\/strong> <strong>bonding and adaptation process<\/strong> is established<\/li>\n<li>Applicants may be required to stay in <strong>the child\u2019s country for a certain period<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Guidance and training<\/strong> regarding childcare and adaptation are provided by professionals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This stage is critical for evaluating <strong>family-child compatibility<\/strong> and ensuring a healthy transition.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"6_Adoption_Approval\"><strong>6. Adoption Approval<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>The international adoption process is completed once the relevant authorities confirm that<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The adoption serves the <strong>best interests of the child<\/strong>, and<\/li>\n<li>The adoptive parents are fully capable of <strong>meeting the child\u2019s needs<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Depending on the country, the process may require:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Administrative approval,<\/strong> and\/or<\/li>\n<li>A <strong>formal court decision finalizing the adoption<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Once approved, <strong>the international adoption becomes legally binding<\/strong> under both national and international frameworks.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"7_Becoming_a_Legal_Family\"><strong>7. Becoming a Legal Family<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>After finalization, the child becomes a <strong>legally recognized member of the adoptive family<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>From this point forward, the adoptive parents assume full responsibility for:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The child\u2019s <strong>care, upbringing, and education<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>The child\u2019s <strong>emotional and psychological adaptation<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Ensuring <strong>a stable and supportive family environment<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Facilitating <strong>long-term integration<\/strong> into the family unit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"8_Challenges_and_Considerations_in_International_Adoption\"><strong>8. Challenges and Considerations in International Adoption<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>International adoption is often a <strong>complex, lengthy, and multi-layered legal process<\/strong> involving several jurisdictions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key challenges include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Bureaucratic procedures<\/strong> that vary between countries<\/li>\n<li>Compliance with <strong>different legal systems and international conventions<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Cultural and linguistic differences<\/strong>, which may affect the child\u2019s adaptation process<\/li>\n<li><strong>Financial costs<\/strong>, including travel, legal fees, agency costs, visa procedures, and administrative expenses<\/li>\n<li><strong>Emotional challenges<\/strong>, particularly related to the child\u2019s past, attachment issues, and adjustment period<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>International adoption<\/strong> offers the opportunity to provide a child with a <strong>safe, stable, and loving family environment<\/strong>, but it requires strict compliance with legal procedures and careful preparation at every stage.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Each country has its own legal requirements, and the process may take a considerable amount of time<\/strong>. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to work with an <strong>experienced adoption lawyer or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/online-legal-services\/\">international law specialist<\/a><\/strong> to ensure compliance with both <strong>domestic and international legal standards<\/strong> and to safeguard the <strong>best interests of the child throughout the entire process<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"w-html\"><div class=\"cb-legal-box\">\n    <div class=\"cb-legal-inner\">\n        <p class=\"cb-legal-text\">\n            You can explore our other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/blog\/\" class=\"cb-legal-link\">articles<\/a> or contact us for your legal support inquiries.\n        <\/p>\n        <div class=\"cb-legal-action\">\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/contact-us\/\" class=\"cb-legal-btn\">Contact Us<\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<style>\n.cb-legal-box {\n    background: #ffffff;\n    border: 2px solid #8b3516; \n    border-radius: 8px;\n    padding: 30px;\n    margin: 30px auto;\n    width: 100%;\n    box-sizing: border-box;\n    font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\n    box-shadow: 0 4px 15px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05);\n}\n\n.cb-legal-inner {\n    display: flex;\n    align-items: center;\n    justify-content: space-between;\n    gap: 30px;\n}\n\n.cb-legal-text {\n    margin: 0;\n    font-size: 19px;\n    color: #333333;\n    line-height: 1.5;\n    flex: 2;\n}\n\n.cb-legal-link {\n    color: #8b3516;\n    text-decoration: underline;\n    font-weight: bold;\n}\n\n.cb-legal-action {\n    flex: 1;\n    text-align: right;\n}\n\n.cb-legal-btn {\n    display: inline-block;\n    background-color: #8b3516;\n    color: #ffffff !important;\n    padding: 14px 28px;\n    border-radius: 5px;\n    text-decoration: none !important;\n    font-weight: bold;\n    font-size: 16px;\n    transition: all 0.3s ease;\n    border: 2px solid #8b3516;\n    white-space: nowrap;\n}\n\n.cb-legal-btn:hover {\n    background-color: #000000;\n    border-color: #000000;\n}\n\n\/* MOB\u0130LDEK\u0130 G\u00d6R\u00dcNT\u00dcY\u00dc D\u00dcZELTEN KISIM *\/\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\n    .cb-legal-box {\n        padding: 20px 15px; \/* Yan bo\u015fluklar\u0131 azaltt\u0131k *\/\n        margin: 20px 0;\n        width: 100% !important;\n    }\n    \n    .cb-legal-inner {\n        flex-direction: column !important;\n        gap: 15px; \/* Yaz\u0131 ve buton aras\u0131ndaki bo\u015flu\u011fu daraltt\u0131k *\/\n    }\n    \n    .cb-legal-text {\n        font-size: 16px; \/* Yaz\u0131y\u0131 mobilde bir t\u0131k k\u00fc\u00e7\u00fcltt\u00fck ki s\u0131\u011fs\u0131n *\/\n        text-align: center !important;\n        width: 100%;\n    }\n    \n    .cb-legal-action {\n        width: 100%;\n        text-align: center !important;\n    }\n    \n    .cb-legal-btn {\n        width: 80%; \/* Butonun ekran\u0131 komple bo\u011fmas\u0131n\u0131 engellemek i\u00e7in %80 yapt\u0131k *\/\n        padding: 12px 20px;\n        font-size: 15px;\n        display: inline-block; \/* Block yerine inline-block + %80 daha zarif durur *\/\n    }\n}\n<\/style><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row us_custom_0a0f4a9a height_auto\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row via_grid cols_1 laptops-cols_inherit tablets-cols_inherit mobiles-cols_1 valign_top type_default stacking_default\"><div class=\"wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_275474cc has_text_color\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><style id=\"cb-yasal-uyari-css\">div.cb-yasal-uyari{background:#f7f7f7;border-left:3px solid #8b3516;border-radius:0 6px 6px 0;padding:12px 16px;margin:0;box-sizing:border-box}div.cb-yasal-uyari p{margin:0;font-size:12.5px;line-height:1.6;color:#555;text-align:left}div.cb-yasal-uyari strong{color:#8b3516;font-weight:700}section.l-section:has(div.cb-yasal-uyari){background:none!important;border-radius:0!important}<\/style><div class=\"cb-yasal-uyari\" role=\"note\"><p><strong>Legal Disclaimer:<\/strong> The copyright in the articles and content on this website belongs to Attorney Orbay \u00c7okg\u00f6r; the content may be quoted provided that the source is credited and an active link to the relevant page is given. All content on this website is for general information purposes only, does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. The information may have become outdated due to changes in legislation and case law; for your specific legal situation, always seek legal assistance from a lawyer.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"ADOPTION CONDITIONS AND PROCEDURE IN TURKEY Adoption in Turkey is a meticulous process aimed at protecting the best interests and welfare of the child while regulating the responsibilities of families within a legal framework. Adoption procedures are governed by Articles 305\u2013320 of the Turkish Civil Code and are carried out in accordance with both general...","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2274,"parent":1806,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1801","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1801","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1801"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1801\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1806"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2274"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cbhukuk.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1801"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}