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Adoption

Alberta residents are able to adopt children in government care, as well as through private and international adoption.

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Introduction

Adoption provides a stable, loving and permanent home to a child or youth.

Adoption is a provincially regulated program. Alberta's Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act indicates that in order for an applicant to be eligible to apply for adoption in Alberta, they must be a resident of Alberta at the time of application, approval and placement.

If you do not live in Alberta, contact the adoption authorities in the province or territory in which you currently reside to inquire about local adoption resources available to you.

Adoption success story

Types of adoption

You do not have to share their genes to be their family

Adopt a child in government care

Adopt a child or youth in the permanent care of Children and Family Services.

Private adoption

Adopt a child of a spouse or relative, or adopt a child through a private direct placement or licensed adoption agency

International adoption

Albertans can apply to adopt a child who lives in another country.

Feature adoption profile

  • A young girl making a heart with her hands

    Permanent families matter

    Four passionate and experienced legal permanency staff share why permanent families matter for children and youth in permanent care. With November being Adoption Awareness Month, this short video shines a light on the need for lasting family connections – and the belonging and support they can bring.

    Featured on CTV News on November 4, 2026.

    View video

The Wednesday’s Child program features some of the children in Alberta who are ready to be adopted.