Married heterosexual couple: adoption with ordinary procedure

In Italy, married heterosexual couples can access legitimate adoption, that is, the one that allows them to accept a child declared adoptable by interrupting legal ties with the family of origin. In order to adopt, the couple must be married for at least three years or, if married for less time, must have lived together permanently for a total of at least three years (marriage included) .Another requirement is age: each of the partners must be at least 18 and no more than 45 years older than the child to be adopted. In addition to these criteria, it is emotional, educational, psychological and economic suitability is required. The couple must apply to the Juvenile Court and undergo an evaluation process with the support of social services. Reference law: Law 184/1983; Civil Code, articles 343—401