Intercountry adoption can feel overwhelming, especially when you are already holding application forms from another country and are unsure how the UK process fits around them. Many prospective adopters feel confused about which steps must be taken in the UK first, what role local authorities play, and how overseas paperwork is used.
This guidance explains, in plain English, how intercountry adoption from Ghana works for people living in the UK, and what the correct legal pathway usually looks like under UK law.
Understanding the issue or context
If you are habitually resident in the UK and wish to adopt a child from overseas, you must follow the UK’s intercountry adoption process, even if you already have application forms from the child’s country of origin.
Many people understandably assume that completing Ghanaian adoption forms is the starting point. However, under UK law, approval in the UK must come first. Overseas applications are usually only progressed once UK assessments and approvals are in place.
The key point is that intercountry adoption is tightly regulated to protect children and adopters, and the UK process cannot be bypassed or completed retrospectively.
The legal rules or framework
In the UK, intercountry adoption is governed by specific regulations that apply where a child is being adopted from outside the British Isles.
Before you can adopt from Ghana, you must be assessed and approved in the UK as suitable adopters. This assessment is carried out either by your local authority or by a registered adoption agency. It includes background checks, medical assessments, references, home visits, and preparation training.
Ghana is not a Hague Convention adoption country for UK purposes, which means the process is classed as a non-Hague intercountry adoption. This places additional emphasis on UK approval before any overseas adoption steps are taken.
You must also notify the relevant UK authority of your intention to adopt from abroad. Only once UK approval is granted can the overseas process lawfully move forward.
Practical steps to take
If you are living in London and wish to adopt from Ghana, the following steps are usually required.
First, contact your local authority or a registered intercountry adoption agency in England to formally notify them of your intention to adopt from Ghana.
Second, begin the UK assessment process. This is a structured process and can take many months. During this time, your suitability to adopt will be carefully assessed.
Third, do not submit or progress Ghanaian adoption forms independently until you are advised to do so. Using overseas forms too early can create legal complications.
Fourth, once approved in the UK, your adoption agency will guide you on how Ghanaian authorities’ requirements fit with UK law, including documentation, matching, and travel.
Finally, after an overseas adoption, additional UK immigration and recognition steps are usually required before the child can live permanently in the UK.
Because this is a complex, multi-stage process, many people find that early fixed-fee legal guidance helps ensure they start in the correct place.
Common pitfalls to avoid
A common mistake is assuming that holding overseas adoption forms means the process has already begun. Under UK law, approval must come first.
Another pitfall is dealing directly with overseas authorities or intermediaries without UK agency involvement. This can risk the adoption not being recognised in the UK.
Some applicants also underestimate timescales. Intercountry adoption is rarely quick and requires patience and planning.
Finally, failing to consider UK immigration requirements for the child can delay family reunification even after an overseas adoption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adopt from Ghana while living in the UK?
Yes, but you must follow the UK intercountry adoption process first.
Do Ghanaian application forms replace UK approval?
No. UK assessment and approval are mandatory before overseas steps.
Who carries out the UK assessment?
Your local authority or a registered adoption agency.
Is Ghana a Hague Convention country for UK adoptions?
No. Adoptions from Ghana are treated as non-Hague adoptions.
How long does the process usually take?
It often takes many months or longer, depending on circumstances.
Should I get legal advice before starting?
Many people find fixed-fee guidance helpful to ensure the process is followed correctly from the outset.
Conclusion
If you’d like to understand your rights and options in plain English, visit LegalGuidance.org — a free resource powered by Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.
For professional, fixed-fee advice from a UK solicitor, visit MartinTaggart.com.
This information is general guidance only and not legal advice. For personalised support, please contact Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.