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Child Adoption Online (CARA / CARINGS)

Department / Authority: Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA), MWCD

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What this service does

Official single-window portal for prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) to register, complete Home Study Reports, and legally adopt children under the Juvenile Justice Act.

Who can use it / Eligibility

Resident Indian parents, NRIs, and foreign citizens physically, mentally, and emotionally stable, financially capable, without life-threatening medical conditions, with minimum 2 years of stable marital relationship (single individuals also eligible as per CARA guidelines).

What you'll need (Documents Required)

  • 1Current family photograph and PAN cards of both parents
  • 2Birth Certificate / Proof of Date of Birth of applicants
  • 3Proof of Residence (Aadhaar / Passport / Utility Bill)
  • 4Income Tax Returns for last 3 years / Salary slips
  • 5Medical fitness certificate from a registered medical practitioner
  • 6Marriage Certificate (if applicable) and Two reference letters from respectable acquaintances

How it works (Step-by-Step)

  1. 1
    Register online on CARINGS portal at carings.wcd.gov.in with parent Aadhaar and email.
  2. 2
    Upload identity proofs, income proofs, medical fitness reports, and marital documents within 30 days.
  3. 3
    A designated Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) conducts the Home Study Report (HSR) within 3 months.
  4. 4
    Receive child referral online and reserve within 48 hours for physical matching.
  5. 5
    Complete legal adoption formalities in District Magistrate court and receive formal adoption order.

Key Service Facts

Statutory Fees

₹6,000 for Home Study Report + Adoption fee as prescribed under CARA Regulations.

Processing Time

6 to 18 Months (Based on referral list seniority and age category of child)

Helpline

1800-11-1311 (Toll Free CARA Helpline)

Verified Source

Every URL, document list, and fee requirement is verified against gov.in or nic.in portals. (cara.wcd.gov.in).

Last verified: 17 Sept 2026
Source: Central Adoption Resource Authority, Ministry of Women and Child Development
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