The links below provide a variety of general information about the legal and administrative background that guides adoption in British Columbia.

• Adoption Act - The Adoption Act, introduced in 1996, reflects changes in society regarding adoption and openness in adoption, as well as issues and matters concerning adoption.
• Adoption Act Regulations - Historical Table, Table of Legislative Changes, Adoption Agency Regulation, Adoption Fees Regulation,
  Adoption Regulation
• About the Adoption Act - General information about the Adoption Act.
• Child, Family and Community Service Act - The Act that governs the safety and well-being of children in British Columbia.
• Confidentiality and Access to Information - The Adoption Act makes it easier for birth parents and adults adopted in British Columbia to obtain identifying information about each other.
• Glossary of Terms - defines terms used throughout the text on this site, as well as in the Adoption Act.
• Hague Convention - Protection of Children and Co-operation in respect of Intercountry Adoption.
• Inter-country Adoption - International adoptions are completed through the six licensed adoption agencies and must conform to the Hague convention's terms and conditions..
• Summary of the Practice Standards for Adoption (PDF Version) - for printing and viewing. (Size 295 kb)
  
• Practice Standards and Guidelines for Adoption  - PDF (size 799 kb)
  The standards establish the required level of practice for those persons who are delegated to carry out duties and functions related to the provision of adoption services by the ministry in British Columbia.