There are two types of adoption systems in Japan: regular adoption and special adoption. Both systems create a legal parent-child relationship between the adoptive parent and the adopted child.
Adoption Systems
There are two types of adoption systems in Japan: regular adoption and special adoption. Both systems create a legal parent-child relationship between the adoptive parent and the adopted child.
Regular Adoption
Under the regular adoption system, the legal parent-child relationship between the adopted child and their birth parents remains intact even after the adoption is established. Adopting a minor child under this system requires the approval of the family court prior to the adoption notification being submitted to the municipality.
Special Adoption
Under the special adoption system, the legal parent-child relationship between the adopted child and their birth parents is severed, and a parent-child relationship is established between the adopted child and their adoptive parents. This system is designed to promote the welfare of the child, with adoptions established following a decision by the family court.
When you have questions or concerns
If you are unsure of what to do, anxious about taking the first step, or need someone to help you trace your roots, please do not keep it all to yourself, and do not hesitate to contact us. We will work with you to figure out what you want to do, and what you can do.