Adoption

For a variety of reasons, there are children in Nova Scotia, other parts of Canada and around the world, who cannot be raised by their birth families. Through adoption, children who need permanent homes can be matched with individuals who have a desire to parent.

Programs and resources

• Who May Adopt
  Applicants must meet certain criteria and be subject to a homestudy.
• Private Relative Adoption
  Adoption of a child by a relative or step parent.
• Private Interprovincial Adoption
  Interprovincial private adoption can be complex.
• Agency Adoption
  There are two types of agency adoptions.
• International Adoption
  Nova Scotian families may adopt a child or children from another country.
• Special Needs Adoption
  It is difficult for some children to find adoptive homes.
• Mi'kmaq Adoption
  Children who speak Mi'kmaq must be placed in an environment where the language is spoken and/or understood.
• Adoption of Children of African Nova Scotian and Bi-racial Heritage
  We are looking for African or interracial Nova Scotian/Canadian families.
• Adoption Disclosure
  The Adoption Information Act creates a registry to help people search for members of their birth family.

Related information

• The Nova Scotia Adoption Information Line is 1-866-259-7780.
• Adoption Information Act
• Adoption Recruitment Awareness Poster (PDF)