ADOPTION AGENCIES AND ATTORNEYS: Adoption in the Republic of Mexico is governed by the civil codes and the civil procedures code of each of the 31 Mexican states.  Even though some adoptions are processed though private attorneys, this guide focuses on the adoptions through DIF.   While there are general similarities among the states’ laws, actual practice may vary considerably from state to state and even from municipality to municipality.  If an attorney is required to complete the adoption process, the DIF in that particular state will assign the attorney. 

Many U.S. prospective adoptive parents have found it helpful to initiate the inter-country adoption and U.S. immigration process with the assistance of an adoption agency.  Prospective adoptive parents are advised to fully research any adoption agency or facilitator they plan to use for adoption services.  For U.S.- based agencies, it is suggested that prospective adoptive parents contact the Better Business Bureau and/or the licensing office of the appropriate state government agency in the U.S. state where the agency is located or licensed.  Please see Important Notice Regarding Adoption Agents and Facilitators at the Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs web site travel.state.gov.