Program delivery update: Intercountry adoptions
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
March 23, 2026
The Overseas Processing Manual 3: Adoptions (OP3) has been modernized and integrated into Program Delivery Instructions (PDIs).
The updated PDIs for processing permanent residence applications for intercountry adoptions include new or amended guidance on
- simple and full adoptions
- adoptability of the child
- habitual residence
- the best interests of the child
- provincial notification letters
- guardianships
- probationary periods in adoptions (available internally only)
- and other key considerations
New instructions
- Intercountry adoptions: General Overview
- Intercountry adoptions: Best interests of the child
- Intercountry adoptions: Provincial notification letters
- Intercountry adoptions: The application process