Can You Adopt Your Partner’s Child in France? Adoption in France explained by an English-speaking family lawyer.
Published on :
06/10/2025
06
October
Oct
10
2025
Blended families are more common than ever, and many stepparents develop strong, loving bonds with their partner’s child. At a certain point, some may consider legal adoption to formalize that bond — giving the child the security of a legal parent-child relationship and reinforcing the family unit.
But is it possible to adopt your partner’s child in France? Yes — under certain conditions. Whether you're married, in a civil union (PACS), or cohabiting, French law provides a legal framework for adoption. Here's what you need to know, as well as how the practice can support you throughout the process.
Two Types of Adoption: Adoption Plénière and Adoption Simple
There are two types of adoption in France: full adoption (adoption plénière) and simple adoption (adoption simple).
Full Adoption (Adoption Plénière)
Full adoption is the most comprehensive form of adoption, but it comes with stricter conditions. It completely replaces the child’s original parentage and severs all legal ties with the other biological parent.
Full adoption is permitted when the child has only one legally recognized parent. It is also allowed if the other parent is deceased, unknown, or has lost parental authority. Typically, the child must be under 15 years old, although exceptions may apply if the child was previously under simple adoption or long-term guardianship.
Once full adoption is granted, the child becomes the legal child of the adopter. The child receives all legal rights, including name and inheritance rights, equal to those of a biological child. Full adoption is permanent and cannot be revoked.
Simple Adoption (Adoption Simple)
Simple adoption is more flexible. It preserves the child’s ties to their biological family while granting full legal status to the adoptive parent.
Simple adoption is available regardless of the child’s age. However, if the child is over 13 years old, their consent is required. Unlike full adoption, simple adoption can be revoked by court decision if there are serious reasons. This form of adoption is particularly appropriate in situations where both biological parents are still legally recognized.
Who Can Adopt Their Partner’s Child?
You may be eligible to adopt your partner’s child if you are married to the child’s parent and not legally separated, if you are in a civil partnership (PACS), or if you are in a stable cohabiting relationship. French law does not require a minimum duration for the relationship, but judges will assess the stability of the household.
In general, the adopting person must be atleast ten years older than the child, although the court may make exceptions when justified.
What About Same-Sex Couples?
In the case of married same-sex couples, one spouse can adopt the other spouse’s child. This possibility reflects the modern realities of diverse family life in France.
How Does the Adoption Process Work?
The adoption process is judicial and usually requires the assistance of an “avocat” (lawyer). Legal counsel is essential to navigate the procedure properly and ensure the child’s best interests are protected.
What About the Child’s Name?
In full adoption, the couple may choose to give the child either one of their surnames or a hyphenated surname combining both. In simple adoption, the adopter’s surname may be added to the child’s name, but only if the child is over 13 and gives their consent.
Need Help with an Adoption Request?
Adopting your partner’s child is a meaningful and deeply personal step, but it also requires careful preparation and a clear understanding of the legal process.
As a lawyer specializing in family law, I can assist you at every stage. I will evaluate your eligibility, help you prepare and file your adoption petition, represent you before the family court, and handle any objections or complexities that may arise.
Whether you are in a traditional or non-traditional family, I am here to make sure your adoption is handled with care, professionalism, and a focus on your child’s best interests.
Read more about similar topics International family law.
For more information contact us.
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Can You Adopt Your Partner’s Child in France? Adoption in France explained by an English-speaking family lawyer.
Published on : 06/10/2025 06 October Oct 10 2025Firm newsFirm news / INTERNATIONAL FAMILY LAW IN FRANCE
Blended families are more common than ever, and many stepparents develop strong, loving bonds with their partner’s child. At a certain point, some may consider legal adoption to...
