Ghana Dossier Checklist:

As of February 2009 (subject to change)

· Approved International Homestudy (notarized)
· Original Certified Copy of Birth Certificates
· Original Certified Copy of Marriage Certificates (if any)
· Original Certified Copy of Divorce Decrees (if any)
· Power of Attorney (notarized)
· Photocopy of USCIS I-171h (no notarization required) NOTE – this is an agency requirement NOT a department of Social Welfare requirement. You may submit your dossier without the I171h.

The following are Forms purchased from the Department of Social Welfare. They cannot be photocopied from another adoptive parent. Check with your agency for specific instructions regarding the completion of the forms.
· Department of Social Welfare Children’s Act 560’ 98 – Formal Application for a Child (no notarization required). For those not affiliated with an agency - fill out the original, DON’T SIGN, make four photocopies, then sign each one.
· Department of Social Welfare Adoption Act 1962 – Medical Report on Prospective Adopter (one completed for each parent). Does not need to be notarized. If the doctor’s office has a stamp with their name and address, ask them to use this.
· Medical Certificate as to Health of Applicant (1/3 page medical – one completed for each parent). Again, try to have the doctor’s office use a stamp with their practice and address.

Not required but recommended:
· Photocopy of Passport Photo Page (no signatures required)
· Family Photo Page (no signatures required)
· Letter of Intent – this is a letter to the Dept of Social Welfare about your family. You might also include your intentions regarding the care of the adopted child(ren), and the
· Employment letter