Can I adopt my stepchild if we recently moved to Virginia?

You can, but you may need to wait to meet the residency requirement. Virginia requires 6 months of residency before filing (Va. Code § 63.2-1201).

If you just moved to Virginia:

• Count from when you established your home in the state
• This is typically when you moved in, not when you changed your driver's license
• Military PCS orders may count as establishing residency immediately

While you wait for residency:

• Complete our questionnaire NOW — we prepare your documents immediately
• Gather supporting documents (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
• Document the biological parent's absence or obtain consent
• The preparation phase costs you zero extra time

Can you file in your previous state instead?

• Only if you or your spouse still meet the residency requirement there
• Generally, you file where the child currently lives
• Call us to discuss if you're between states

What counts as residency:

• Living in Virginia with intent to remain
• Having a home address in the state
• Enrolling children in local schools
• Getting a state driver's license (helpful but not required)

Timeline once you file: 3-6 months | Cost: $349 + court fees

Don't wait until the residency period ends to start — prepare now so you can file the day you qualify.

Call (855) 924-0450 or visit stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire.