The Acronyms of Chinese Adoption

These were posted on our agency Yahoo group, by Holly, one of the moms whose LOA just arrived! Thanks Holly!

LOI
Letter of Intent
This is a letter sent to the Chinese adoption authorities (CCAA) by the prospective adoptive parents (PAP), stating they intend to complete the steps necessary to adopt a given child. It also spells out a basic medical plan for any health concern that the child has. It tells a little about the family, respect for Chinese birth culture
of the child, and gives sort of a convincing plea to the CCAA on the part of the PAP. The LOI is sent to China along with basic financial information about the PAP.

PA
Preliminary Approval
Letter given to the prospective adoptive parents from the Chinese adoption authorities, saying that they have approval to go ahead and complete the steps to adopt a given child (for whome they have filed a LOI).

DTC
Dossier to China
All the paperwork from the prospective adoptive parents has gone to China to be reviewed by the CCAA.

LID
Log In Date
The dossier has been logged in at the Chinese adoptive governing office. The PAPs are officially in the process for adopting the child.

CCAA
Chinese Center for Adoptive Affairs
The Chinese adoption governing body, located in Beijing.

PAP
Prospective Adoptive Parent

LOA (or SC)
Letter of Acceptance
Seeking Confirmation
The letter that the CCAA sends to the PAP to confirm that they want to adopt the child for whom they have filed a LOI. This same letter is also sent to PAPs who are adopting in the NSN (Non Special Needs) program, where a child is matched/referred to the PAP after the CCAA reviews the dossier (paperwork). In that case, the PAPs
review the child's info and sign the LOA/SC if they do accept the referral/match.

TA
Travel Approval
This is a letter sent by the CCAA to the PAP inviting them to travel to get their child. (The PAP then has 90 days in which to travel).

CA
Consulate Appointment
This is the LAST step in China before you can board the plane for home! You go to the American Consulate in Guangzhou and present the plastic envelope full of documents. You get one back that is sealed and NOT to be opened. You give it to the Immigration officer when you enter the United States. (Really - don't open it!) You also take an Oath at the CA. Don't take your guns, knives, cell phone, PDA, etc. etc. etc. to the CA. (OK - don't travel with guns and knives. It will just be easier that way.) Leave your camera behind, too. No photos allowed. Your CA date is the date from which you plan your entire trip -- backwards!! Once the CA is confirmed by your agency, you can plan your travel!