Adoption eines ausländischen Kindes, Umwandlung einer schwachen in eine starke Adoption

A so-called weak adoption of a child made abroad can be converted into a so-called strong adoption by order of the family court.

On application, the family court can convert a so-called weak adoption into a so-called strong adoption.

• notarized application for conversion of the adoption
• foreign adoption certificate.

Note: In most cases, foreign documents with over-certification are required:

• by the competent foreign authority (apostille) or
• legalization by the German diplomatic mission abroad.

You have adopted a child abroad.

The court pronounces the adoption with strong effect if

• this is in the best interests of the child,
• the necessary consent to an adoption with an effect terminating the parent-child relationship has been granted and
• there are no overriding interests of the husband, wife or children of the adopter(s) or the adopted child to the contrary

• Notary fees
• court costs
• the respective amount depends on the individual case

You must submit a notarized application for conversion to the competent local court. The court examines the application and also involves the local youth welfare office and the central adoption office of the state youth welfare office during the proceedings.

The court pronounces the adoption with strong effect if

• this is in the best interests of the child,
• the necessary consent to an adoption with an effect terminating the parent-child relationship has been granted and
• there are no overriding interests of the husband, wife or children of the adopter or the adopted child to the contrary.

Your adopted child then has all the rights and obligations of a natural child. In addition, if they are under the age of 18 at the time of the application, they will be granted German citizenship if you or your husband or wife are German citizens.

At least 3 months due to the prescribed procedure, possibly longer in more complex procedures

There are no deadlines to be observed.

The rejection of the application can be appealed within one month in accordance with Sections 58 et seq. FamFG.

• Adoption of a foreign child Decision to convert a weak adoption into a strong adoption
• A so-called weak adoption of a child made abroad can be converted into a so-called strong adoption by order of the family court.
• Required documents:
  • Notarized application for conversion of the adoption
  • foreign adoption certificate
• fees:
  • Notary fees
  • court costs
  • the respective amount depends on the individual case
• responsible: Local Court - Family Court -

In Thuringia: Jena Local Court