Texas has an estimated 1.9 million unauthorized immigrants, according to the 2021 census, with more than half of them having crossed the border from Mexico. Illegal immigrants in the US face additional barriers when it comes to health care issues, including access to birth control and family planning. Many undocumented women may wonder if they can safely place their baby up for adoption.
In Texas, your immigration status does not prevent you from choosing adoption, and you will be able to make the same choices as any other expectant mother. However, you may still have questions or be nervous about the process. If you are considering an adoption plan but not a US citizen, here are a few things to know.
Can I get assistance with pregnancy-related medical bills?
Yes, pregnant women in Texas can receive financial assistance to pay for prenatal care. During pregnancy, she can apply for benefits through CHIP Perinatal. CHIP Perinatal provides limited coverage during pregnancy and two postpartum visits within 60 days of the end of the pregnancy for women who can’t get Medicaid and don’t have health insurance.
While at the hospital for labor and delivery, she will be able to apply for Pregnancy Medicaid to cover the hospital costs of labor and delivery. The hospital social worker can provide guidance for this.
In Texas, your immigration status does not prevent you from choosing adoption.
Can I work with an adoption agency?
Yes, you can begin working with an adoption agency at any time. You will have all the same rights and choices as any other expectant parent.
When choosing an adoption agency, look for one that has a counselor who speaks your language. To make an informed decision about adoption, you’ll need to explore your options, understand what open adoption is, acknowledge the lifelong impact it may have, and process your emotions. This can be extremely difficult when there is a language barrier.
Many adoption agencies in Texas, including Adoption Advocates, have bilingual counselors to assist pregnant women who speak only Spanish.
Will I be reported to Immigration?
As an adoption agency, our focus is on helping mothers through the adoption process, and ensuring a safe, loving home for their child. Your status is not a factor in either of these things, so we don’t get involved and will not report you to US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In our experience, hospitals will not contact Immigration either. Their first concern, as is ours, is that you and the baby receive the appropriate medical care and support that you both need.
What about the baby?
Because your baby is born in the United States, he or she automatically becomes a US Citizen. In Texas, he or she will also be eligible to receive health care benefits through the CHIP program.
Being undocumented may change a few things about the adoption process, but you can absolutely still work with an adoption agency to place your child with an adoptive family in the US. Adoption Advocates has experience guiding women in your situation through the process. If you have questions about adoption or want to get started on your adoption plan, please call (512) 477-1122 (English) or (915) 209-1507.
