Law would raise bar for foster parents(2)

Foster parent

Definition: A foster parent refers to a person who acts as parent and guardian for a child in place of the child's natural parents but without legally adopting the child. The legal guardian for the fostered child is the local government, usually the civil affairs department or a child welfare home.

Compensation: A foster parent is compensated for expenses incurred by taking care of the child.

Qualifications: A foster parent should have stable income, a harmonious relationship with family members and neighbors, be aged 30 to 60, in good health, have at least nine years of education, have no criminal record or poor living habits. The law does not say whether an expat can be a foster parent in China.

Adoptive parent

Definition: An adoptive parent refers to a person who provides a permanent home for a child through a legal process with the civil affairs department above the county level.

Qualifications: An adoptive parent should have no child and be age 30 or older. An applicant can adopt one healthy child or unlimited numbers of disabled children. There are strict requirements for applicant's financial status, education level and health. Foreigners can adopt children from China if they meet the same requirements.