Full Breakdown
Waukesha Couple's Adoption Delayed by Federal Visa Pause
1/22/2026, 12:52:02 AM
Adoption Process Interrupted
Joe and Kristin Finn, a couple from Waukesha, Wisconsin, are facing uncertainty regarding their international adoption of a daughter from Colombia. They had prepared to finalize the adoption this week, having completed extensive background checks, biometric screenings, and financial disclosures over the past three years. However, new federal guidance from the U.S. Department of State has paused the issuance of certain immigrant visas, including those for international adoptions. This decision, effective January 21, has left the Finns in limbo, as they were set to travel to Colombia to meet their daughter for the first time.
The couple had made all necessary arrangements, including hotel reservations and preparations for their daughter's arrival. Kristin Finn expressed her frustration, stating, “Now all of that is at risk.” The couple's adoption agency has informed them that there is no clear timeline for when a visa might be issued, adding to their anxiety about the situation.
Federal Guidance and Its Implications
The U.S. Department of State's recent guidance indicates that while interviews for immigrant visas may continue, the actual issuance of these visas is on hold as the department reviews whether applicants can rely on public benefits. This pause includes international adoption visas, which has raised concerns among adoption professionals. Angie Flannery, executive director of Adoption Choice Inc., noted that this situation is unusual, as past travel bans typically included exceptions for adoption cases. Flannery hopes this pause is merely an oversight by the government.
Commitment Amidst Uncertainty
Despite the challenges, the Finns remain committed to their adoption journey. Joe Finn stated, “And we would do it all over again,” emphasizing their determination to bring their daughter home. They are actively reaching out to lawmakers for support and clarification regarding the visa situation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
As of now, there is a lack of clarity from the U.S. Department of State on how the visa pause specifically affects adoption cases and whether any exceptions will be made. The absence of a response from the department leaves many families, like the Finns, in a state of uncertainty regarding their adoption plans.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We were this close, and our government is saying ‘stop,'” — Joe Finn, Adoptive Parent
- “It’s really frustrating to have it be this close and have it just put an indefinite pause,” — Kristin Finn, Adoptive Parent
- “It’s a little startling. There have been travel bans on visas in the past, but there has always been an adoption exception,” — Angie Flannery, Executive Director of Adoption Choice Inc.
