Adoption

There are three main types of adoption in Nunavut:

• Public or ‘department’ adoption—through the Department of Family and Social Services
• custom adoption
• international adoption

Custom adoptions are the most common type of adoption in Nunavut. It typically takes place between two families that know each other and/or through word of mouth in the community. Generally, lawyers and social workers are not involved in the process. Many people say they prefer custom adoption as a way of keeping children in their communities and maintaining a sense of identity and tradition.

While the Government of Nunavut does not process custom adoptions, efforts are being made to create an alternative family care program. For more information, speak with the Community Social Services Worker in your community or contact the adoption specialist (1-867-975-5232).