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I Am An Adult Birth Sibling

For adoptions finalized on or after July 1, 1994: When the adoptee is 21 years of age or older, the adult birth sibling may apply to receive identifying information on the adoptee. At any time, adult birth siblings can send letters, medical history, and relative information to VDSS. This information will be added to the adoption record, to be included in the adoption record.

For adoptions prior to July 1, 1994: Adult Birth Siblings can send letters, medical history, and relative information to VDSS. This information will be added to the adoption record. If the adoptee submits a request to VDSS, the information will be provided to them.

How Do I Request a Search?

For adoptions finalized on or after July 1, 1994, when the adoptee is 21 years of age or older, the adult birth sibling may apply to VDSS for identifying information on the adoptee.

What To Expect?

  • Within 30 days of the time your application is received, your request will be assigned to the agency involved in your adoption.
  • You will be provided with the name and contact information for the agency.
  • The agency will have 90 days to process the request.
  • If additional time is needed, you will be notified and an extension to your case may be granted.
  • When an adoption search has been requested, to include identifying information, the individual being sought must first consent to the release of their name and contact information.
  • Based on the recommendations of the agency conducting the search, the Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Social Services will make a final decision regarding release of identifying information.
  • Upon consent of the individual being sought and the approval of the Commissioner, the agency assigned to conduct the search will release the name and contact information.
  • The record remains sealed under a court order.

How do I add information to a record?

Adult Birth Siblings can send letters to VDSS to be included in the adoption record, at any time.

Notification of Critical Medical Information

In circumstances where a critical hereditary condition has been identified, an adult birth sibling may submit an application to notify the adoptee. Per the Code of Virginia § 63.2-1247, a letter from a physician must accompany the application. The letter must identify the diagnosis, verify the hereditary nature, and state it is critical that the adoptee be notified.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

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(800) 828-1120, or 711

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