If you’re considering adoption, one of the most common questions is:
How long does adoption take in Texas?
The answer depends on several factors—including the type of adoption, the legal steps involved, and the unique circumstances of the child and the adoptive family.
This blog breaks down the average timelines for different types of adoption and the key factors that can speed up or delay the process.
AVERAGE ADOPTION TIMELINES IN TEXAS
| Type of Adoption | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Foster Care Adoption | 6 to 18 months |
| Stepparent Adoption | 3 to 6 months |
| Private Infant Adoption | 6 to 12 months |
| Kinship Adoption | 3 to 6 months |
| International Adoption | 12 to 36 months |
| Adult Adoption | 1 to 2 months |
These are average timeframes and can vary depending on the court system, background checks, and whether parental rights need to be terminated.
WHAT FACTORS AFFECT ADOPTION TIMELINES?
1. Type of Adoption
Each type of adoption has its own legal process. For example, foster care adoption may take longer due to case reviews by Child Protective Services, while adult adoptions are usually quick and straightforward.
2. Parental Rights Termination
Adoption cannot be finalized until the rights of the child’s biological parents are legally terminated. If this step is uncontested and voluntary, the process can move more quickly. If contested, it may involve court hearings and take months longer.
3. Home Study and Background Checks
Most adoptions in Texas require a home study, which involves home visits, interviews, financial reviews, and background checks. This step alone can take several weeks to a few months to complete.
4. Court Scheduling and Caseload
The availability of court dates and how busy your local court system is can affect how quickly your case moves forward.
5. Agency or Attorney Involvement
Families who work with experienced adoption attorneys or agencies often experience a smoother and faster process due to professional guidance and properly filed paperwork.
HOW TO SPEED UP THE ADOPTION PROCESS
While you can’t control every part of the process, you can take steps to avoid unnecessary delays:
- Gather required documents early (IDs, financial records, birth certificates)
- Stay in communication with your attorney or caseworker
- Respond quickly to requests from the court or adoption agency
- Complete background checks and fingerprints as soon as possible
- Attend all required training sessions or parenting classes on time
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can an adoption be completed in under 6 months?
Yes, in certain stepparent and adult adoption cases where no termination of parental rights is needed, the process may take just a few months.
Why do foster care adoptions take longer?
Because the state prioritizes family reunification first, parental rights must be terminated before adoption is possible. The timeline also depends on the child’s case history and court reviews.
Do I have to live in Texas for a certain amount of time before adopting?
You do not need to be a long-term Texas resident to adopt here, but the child must generally live with you for at least six months before the adoption is finalized in many cases.
FINAL THOUGHTS
So, how long does adoption take in Texas?
It can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the type of adoption and legal requirements involved. Understanding the steps in advance and staying proactive can help move the process forward smoothly.
Bryan Fagan is a Texas family law attorney with a heart for adoption—inspired not just by his legal career, but by his own family story. Growing up in Atascocita with two adopted brothers, Bryan learned early the profound meaning of chosen family. His passion for justice was sparked by John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, and he became the first lawyer in his family, balancing night classes at South Texas College of Law while caring for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s.
Today, Bryan brings that same dedication to his practice, guiding families through adoptions, custody disputes, divorces, and complex marital agreements. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, he combines elite legal expertise with genuine empathy—drawing from his roles as a husband, father of three, and advocate for families facing false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is actively involved in the Houston Bar Association’s Family Law Sector and statewide family law organizations. Whether finalizing an adoption or protecting parental rights, he believes the law should reflect the deepest values of home, commitment, and love.