For over three decades, China was the primary “sending country” for international adoptions to the United States. However, since the Chinese government officially terminated its international adoption program in late 2024, the landscape for prospective parents has been fundamentally redrawn. As we move through January 2026, the “Post-China” era is characterized by a significant shift toward Hague Convention-compliant programs in South Korea, Colombia, and India.

For families who were left in limbo by the 2024 closure, or for those just beginning their journey, understanding these international adoption trends in 2026 is the key to navigating a world where the rules of the game have changed.

The “New Big Three”: India, Colombia, and South Korea

With China no longer an option, three nations have emerged as the primary focus for American families. Each offers a different legal framework and child profile.

• India: The Volume Leader As of early 2026, India remains the top country for U.S. international adoptions. Managed by the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), the process is highly regulated and strictly follows the Hague Convention. However, with a ratio of 13 families for every one “legally free” child, wait times have increased significantly.

• Colombia: The Most Inclusive Option Colombia has become a sanctuary for diverse family structures. Unlike many other nations, Colombia is generally open to single applicants and, in many cases, LGBTQ+ parents. The focus in 2026 is primarily on “waiting children”—those older than eight, sibling groups, or children with identifiable medical needs.

• South Korea: The Historic Transition 2026 marks a pivotal year for adopting from South Korea. After decades of operating under its own special laws, South Korea is fully integrating into the Hague Convention framework. This transition brings more rigorous oversight but also more stable legal protections for adoptive parents.

The Hague Convention: Why Legal Expertise is Non-Negotiable

In 2026, nearly every viable international adoption route for U.S. citizens is governed by the Hague Adoption Convention. This treaty ensures that adoptions are transparent and prevent child trafficking, but it also adds layers of “Article 16” and “Article 23” certifications that can halt an adoption if not handled perfectly.

This is where a Hague Convention adoption lawyer becomes indispensable. They ensure that your “Dossier” meets the specific, often fluctuating, requirements of the Central Authority in the sending country while coordinating with the U.S. Department of State.

2026 Pivot Guide: Tips for Families Re-routing Their Journey

If your original plan was to adopt from China, or if you are finding current domestic waitlists too long, here is how to pivot safely:

1. Assess Your “Special Needs” Comfort: In 2026, almost all international programs prioritize children with medical or developmental needs. Be honest about what your family can support.

2. Verify Agency Accreditation: Ensure your agency is specifically “Hague Accredited” for the new country you are considering. An agency that was an expert in China may not have the same “on-the-ground” infrastructure in Bogotá or New Delhi.

3. Check Age and Marriage Requirements: South Korea, for example, typically requires parents to be between ages 25–44, while Colombia offers more flexibility for parents up to age 55 for older children.

4. Budget for Multiple Trips: Many 2026 programs, like South Korea, now require two separate trips to the country, adding significant travel costs to your overall budget.

Conclusion

The end of the China program was the end of an era, but it was not the end of international adoption. In 2026, the focus has moved toward ethical, stable, and highly regulated programs that prioritize the “best interests of the child” above all else. Navigating international adoption trends in 2026 requires a deep understanding of the Hague Convention and the specific, evolving dossiers required by nations like India and South Korea. To ensure your journey is legally protected and that your path to parenthood is as smooth as possible, contact Lforlaw today to connect with a Hague Convention adoption lawyer who can provide the expert guidance needed to bring your child home.

---

Sources

• U.S. Department of State: 2025 Annual Report on Intercountry Adoptions (Published Nov 2025).

• CARA (India): New Guidelines for Inter-country Adoption 2026.

• NCRC (South Korea): Hague Convention Implementation Update – January 2026.

• Pew Research: The Changing Face of Global Adoption in the Post-China Era.

• CCAI Adoption Services: Colombia Program Update: 2026 Eligibility and Timelines.