On September 30, 2025, the Center for Excellence in Adoption Services (CEAS) fully assumed accrediting entity responsibilities for all accredited and approved adoption service providers (ASPs) in the United States.  CEAS is responsible for accrediting, approving, monitoring, and overseeing ASP compliance with accreditation standards.

Since 2022, both CEAS and the Intercountry Adoption Accreditation and Maintenance Entity, Inc. (IAAME) served as designated accrediting entities.  In May, IAAME notified the Department it would withdraw from its role as an accrediting entity effective September 30, 2025.

The Department of State is grateful to IAAME for its dedicated service as an accrediting entity since 2017 and for its collaboration with CEAS to ensure a smooth transition.  This cooperative effort has helped ensure that intercountry adoption services in the United States continue without interruption.

Questions about this announcement may be submitted to the Office of Children’s Issues at adoptionoversight@state.gov or CEAS at info@ceadoption@org.