Adoption of a Stepchild under the Age of 18

An application for stepchild adoption is submitted by the stepparent who wishes to adopt their stepchild.

Before applying for stepchild adoption, it is important to familiarise oneself with the general information regarding the requirements for stepchild adoption.

No consent for the adoption of a child under the age of 18 may be granted unless, following an investigation by the child protection committee into the circumstances of the child and those seeking the adoption, it is deemed that the adoption is in the best interests of the child.

The following requirements apply to the adoption of a stepchild under the age of 18:

• Applicants must possess the qualities and understanding of children’s needs that render them well suited to fulfil parental responsibilities towards the child.

• The applicant’s financial circumstances must be stable.

• Applicants must have adequate housing and other facilities to provide the child with conditions conducive to healthy development.

• The applicant must not have been convicted of an offence that could call into question their ability to provide a proper upbringing for a child.

Supporting documents

Further information regarding the required supporting documents can be found in the application form.

• Medical and health certificate for the stepparent
  

  Eyðublað fyrir heilbrigðis- og læknisvottorð

  PDF

• The three most recent tax returns

• The three most recent payslips of the stepparent

• Documentation of the stepparent’s income for the past year, if a tax return for that year is not yet available

• Recent loan payment slips or a statement of account from the lender

• Birth certificate of the stepparent, if born abroad

• Proof of the minimum required cohabitation period (where applicable)

• Any other relevant documentation, as applicable

Issuance of an adoption licence

When the District Commissioner approves the application and issues an adoption licence, the licence will be sent to the applicant by post. Notification of the adoption will be sent to other parties concerned.

Notification of the adoption will also be sent to Registers Iceland.

If a change of name is requested, the applicant will be directed to submit an application to Registers Iceland.

Refusal of adoption

If the District Commissioner refuses to issue an adoption licence, this will be done by means of a reasoned ruling.

Appeal of the District Commissioner’s ruling

A ruling of the District Commissioner may be appealed to the Ministry of Justice within two months from the date of the ruling.