A Dream of Fatherhood Beyond Traditional Molds
Abraham Ureña, a pharmacist by profession, had a stable life and a successful career. Yet, he felt a void that professional success could not fill: a deep desire to be a father.
Society often tells us that a family follows a single mold: dad, mom, and children. But for Abraham, love knows no molds, only commitment. He decided to take a brave step and initiate an individual adoption process with the National Child Welfare Agency (PANI). He knew he might face prejudices, but his conviction was stronger.
The turning point came with a phone call. PANI contacted him not for one child, but for two: David and Mauricio, brothers who needed a home. The connection was immediate and instinctive. As he recounts it, there were no doubts: “In that second, I knew they were my sons.”
Today, Abraham, David, and Mauricio are a family of three. Their story is living proof that parenthood is a calling of the heart, not just a bureaucratic procedure.
Costa Rican Law: A Framework That Opens Doors
Abraham’s story raises many legal questions. Can a single man adopt in Costa Rica? Is it more difficult than for a married couple? Here we explain the legal reality behind this success story.
1. Myths vs. Reality: Marital Status
There is a common misconception that only married heterosexual couples have the right to adopt. This is false. Costa Rica’s Family Code and PANI regulations are progressive in this regard. The law does not discriminate based on marital status; it allows individual (single-parent) adoption for both men and women.
2. The Core Concept: Suitability (Idoneidad)
What the law looks for is not a ring on a finger, but suitability.
What does this mean in simple terms? It is a technical and exhaustive process that verifies if you have the capacity:
- Emotional and psychological.
- Social.
- Economic.
The goal is to guarantee that you can provide a safe, stable, and loving environment. If a single person demonstrates this suitability, they have the same right to adopt as a couple.
3. The Child’s Right Comes First
The Code on Childhood and Adolescence establishes the guiding principle of every process: the Best Interest of the Child.
Adoption is not an adult’s right to have children; it is a child’s right to have a family. In Abraham’s case, his willingness to adopt a sibling group (David and Mauricio) was crucial. Costa Rican legislation prioritizes keeping siblings together, so applicants willing to receive sibling groups are vital to the system.
Conclusion: A Family Built on Love
The Costa Rican family has evolved. It is no longer defined exclusively by biological ties, but by the will to care for and love one another.
Abraham Ureña’s experience teaches us that single-parent adoption is a viable, legitimate, and deeply rewarding path. If you have the desire to give love and meet the suitability requirements, the law is on your side.
As this story summarizes well: in Costa Rica, the only ID card essential for being a family is that of the heart.
📩 Contact us if you need legal advice on adoption processes, suitability, or family law. At ERP Lawyers, we accompany you in building your future.
