Couples who adopt a child from another country can claim expenses incurred during the adoption process under a refund scheme which came into force on Tuesday.

Family Minister Michael Falzon said that those who adopt children from abroad face a number of challenges and costs as they go through the process.

To address this, he said, the government will be giving a grant of up to €10,000 to those who adopt. The scheme is back-dated to October 10, 2017.

Those requesting the grant must submit documentation to show that the adoption has been finalised. The refunds will cover expenses made on research, documentation, legal fees, the use of interpreters, flights and accommodation.

Dr Falzon explained that since this was an electoral pledge and a budget measure, the government had decided that any adoptions completed from the day of the Budget onwards would be eligible.

He made the announcement during a visit to a family that recently adopted a girl from India.

Speaking about his experience, father Gerald Cardona said that such a grant could give those still considering adoption the push they needed to take the decision to adopt a child, adding that knowing such a grant is available would make the process much easier.

According to Dr Falzon, last year there were about 44 inter-country adoptions.

He said the government is in the process of finalising talks with a European country to make it possible for couples in Malta to adopt but he would not give any other details on the country in question or when the talks would be completed. 

In 2016 only six children were adopted in 12 months – the lowest in 11 years. Another three children were adopted from local institutions. 

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