Art. 1283.15 Effect of final decree

When a judge signs the final adoption decree for a child adopted from another country, that decree works exactly like any other adoption decree issued in Louisiana. The adoption is fully legal and complete, just like it would be for a child adopted from within the state.

This rule also means the child automatically becomes a United States citizen once the decree is final. Parents don't need to file extra paperwork or apply separately for citizenship through immigration services. The Intercountry Adoption Act makes citizenship happen right away as part of the adoption process itself.

For families going through an international adoption, this rule offers peace of mind. Once the court finalizes the adoption, the child has the same legal status as any other adopted child in Louisiana, and citizenship is already taken care of.