One of the most important steps in the adoption process is the preparation of the Home Study Report. You will need a Home Study Report (HSR) if you are adopting a child in MSF care or a foreign-born child.

Here is a closer look at what the Home Study Report is all about, what factors social works will look out for, and its costs.

The HSR is an investigation conducted by MSF accredited social service organisations into the applicants’ family’s circumstances and the other aspects surrounding the adoption to assess the applicants’ eligibility.

The social worker will interview the family to assess their finances, attitudes towards parenting, and the status of the applicants’ marriage. Apart from visiting the adoptive parents’ home and speaking to family members, the social worker may also speak to the applicants’ friends.

Background checks will also be conducted to check if the applicants have a criminal record or any history of mental illness.

At what stage of the adoption process is the Home Study Report prepared?

The HSR is required before the applicants start searching for a child to adopt. Without obtaining a favourable HSR, the applicants cannot proceed with the adoption of a child introduced to them by any individual or adoption agencies, or initiate the adoption proceedings.

What is the validity of the HSR?

The Home Study Report is valid for up to two years and for only one adoption. If the validity expires or you wish to adopt a second child, you will need a fresh Home Study Report.

What is the cost of the Home Study Report?

According to MSF, the cost of HSR currently is $1750.

What are the factors the social worker checks for preparing the HSR?

Apart from conducting criminal checks, and assessing the status of applicants’ marriage, the social worker looks into:

• Your life choices
• Insurance
• Family history
• Bank statements
• Monthly expense breakdown
• Declaration of income
• Investments
• The reason for adoption
• The applicants’ childhood
• The applicants’ job
• The relationship the applicants have with each of their family members

In addition, character references may also have to be provided by the applicants to prove they can be good parents to their adopted child.

Read more: How to Adopt a Child in Singapore