Recently, the Trump administration took positive steps to address concerns from the faith community surrounding visas for ministry workers and families in the process of international adoptions.
Visa Issues for International Adoption
Many international adoptions have been left in limbo following the Trump administration’s announcement of new travel restrictions.
In the past, the Trump administration has exempted international adoptions from the limited or paused visa list, however, that was not included under these restrictions.
What was the Trump administration’s announcement?
In early 2026, the Trump administration announced that the State Department will soon issue formal guidance on intercountry adoptions. The White House clarified that U.S. citizen families adopting internationally should continue the process as normal, as their adoptions may qualify for an exception under the National Interest Exemption.
The Trump administration advised families to continue submitting the visa applications and attending their consular interviews as the State Department evaluates the adoptions on a case-by-case basis.
The announcement is a welcomed relief for families in the process of adopting internationally as they open their homes and life to vulnerable children.
Southern Baptists spoke to adoption and foster care at the 2009 annual meeting through the resolution “On Adoption and Orphan Care.”
