DISCLAIMER: The information in this circular relating to the legal requirements of specific foreign countries is provided for general information only. Questions involving interpretation of specific foreign laws should be addressed to foreign counsel.

AFGHANISTAN: Islamic law does not recognize adoption (Art. 228 of civil Code of 1980)

BANGLADESH: Primarily Muslim country. Does not permit adoptions of Muslims. Under Hindu law, Hindus may adopt Hindu children. In order to obtain legal custody of an abandoned child delivered to an adoption agency, prospective adopting parents must apply to District Judge under Section 8 of the Guardian and Wards Act, 1890.

IRAQ: Iraq does not permit the adoption of its nationals by foreigners.

ISRAEL: Adoptions are strictly controlled by the Ministry of Social Welfare and the District Courts. Few children are available to foreigners. The adoptive parent(s) must be of the same religion as the child and work through a licensed adoption agency.

KUWAIT: Kuwaiti law has no provisions for adoption.

PAKISTAN: Pakistan is a Muslim state, and Muslim law does not recognize adoption. Some children whose origin is unknown but who have been converted to Christianity by Christian missionaries may be available for adoption.

QATAR: Qatar does not permit the adoption of its nationals by foreigners.

SAUDI ARABIA: Adoption is illegal in Saudi Arabia, which adheres strictly to Islamic Sharia law.

YEMEN: Yemen is governed by Sharia law. Only Muslims would be allowed to take custody of an orphan