Becoming a foster parent is a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration of the requirements and responsibilities involved. Unfortunately, there are several common misconceptions that can discourage potential foster parents from pursuing this opportunity. In this article, we will share some of the most prevalent misconceptions surrounding foster parenting.

15 Common Misconceptions of Requirements for Foster Parents

1. Marital Status: Some people believe that only married couples can become foster parents, but this is not true. Single individuals, as well as same-sex couples, can also become foster parents.
2. Home Ownership: Another common misconception is that foster parents must own their own home, but this is not necessarily true. In most cases, foster parents may be either renters or homeowners, as long as their residence has enough bedrooms for the number of children the foster parent wants to foster.
3. Sexual Orientation: Another common misconception is that only heterosexual individuals can become foster parents, but LGBTQ individuals can also become foster parents. There is a huge need for individuals who can support LGBTQ children in foster care.
4. Age: Many people believe that they have to be a certain age to become a foster parent, but as long as you are at least 21 years old, you can become a foster parent.
5. Income: There is a misconception that foster parents must have a high income or own a home to be eligible to foster a child. However, foster parents can come from all walks of life and income levels.
6. Experience with Children: Many people assume that they need to have experience working with or caring for children in order to become a foster parent, but this is not always the case. Even if you haven’t had biological children, you can definitely become a foster parent.
7. Biological Children: On the flip side, some people believe that foster parents cannot have any biological children of their own. However, many families with biological children already in the home do very well as foster parents.
8. Education: Many people assume that foster parents need to have a college degree, but this is not a requirement to become a foster parent.
9. Citizenship: Some people believe that only U.S. citizens can become foster parents, but legal residents (non-citizens) may also be eligible to foster children.
10. Religious Affiliation: It is a common misconception that foster parents need to be affiliated with a particular religion or have a specific set of beliefs to become a UMFS foster parent. This is not true. UMFS welcomes foster parents of all different types of beliefs.
11. Perfect Health: Some people think that they must be in perfect health to become a foster parent, but minor health issues may not necessarily disqualify someone.
12. Perfect Home: Another common misconception is that foster parents must have a perfect, pristine home. In reality, homes need to be clean and safe, but they do not need to be spotless.
13. Criminal Record: While having a criminal record can be a barrier to becoming a foster parent, it does not automatically disqualify someone.
14. Gender: Some people believe that only women can become foster parents, but men can also be foster parents.
15. Foster Children are “Troubled”: Finally, it is a common misconception that foster children are all “troubled” or “difficult.” While some children in the foster care system may have experienced trauma, many are simply in need of a safe, stable, and loving home.

Requirements for Becoming a Foster Parent

In Virginia, as in most states, there are several requirements for becoming a foster parent:

1. Age: Foster parents must be at least 21 years old.
2. Background check: Prospective foster parents and all household members over the age of 18 must undergo a background check, including fingerprinting and criminal history checks.
3. Health: Prospective foster parents must provide a recent physical examination by a licensed healthcare provider to ensure that they are physically and mentally capable of caring for a child.
4. Home study: Prospective foster parents must complete a home study process, which includes a home visit to ensure that the home is safe and suitable for a child.
5. Training: Prospective foster parents must complete a pre-service training program, which includes at least 30 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of online instruction.
6. Income: There is no specific income requirement to become a foster parent in Virginia, but foster parents must demonstrate that they are financially stable and able to provide for the needs of a child.
7. Education: There is no specific educational requirement to become a foster parent in Virginia, but foster parents must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
8. Citizenship: Prospective foster parents must be U.S. citizens or legal residents.

It’s important to note that these requirements are just a general overview, and there may be additional requirements or restrictions based on individual circumstances. 

Common Disqualifications For Becoming a Foster Parent

There are several reasons why someone might be disqualified from becoming a foster parent. These reasons can vary depending on the state and agency, but some common disqualifiers include:

1. Criminal history: Individuals with certain criminal convictions may be disqualified from becoming foster parents. This can include convictions for violent crimes, drug offenses, or crimes against children. If you have questions on whether a conviction would disqualify you, please reach out to UMFS staff.
2. Domestic violence: If an individual has a history of domestic violence, they may not be eligible to become a foster parent. This is because the safety and well-being of the child must always be the top priority.
3. Substance abuse: If an individual is struggling with substance abuse, they may not be eligible to become a foster parent. This is because substance abuse can have a negative impact on a child’s safety and well-being.
4. Child abuse or neglect: Individuals who have been found to have abused or neglected a child may not be eligible to become a foster parent. This is because the safety and well-being of the child must always be the top priority.
5. Financial instability: While foster parents do not need to be wealthy, they do need to be able to provide a stable and safe home for the child. If an individual is struggling with significant financial instability or debt, they may not be eligible to become a foster parent.

It’s important to note that each state and agency has its own set of guidelines and requirements for becoming a foster parent. If you are considering becoming a foster parent, it’s important to research the guidelines in your state and be honest about your background and history during the application process.

How to Become a Foster Parent

Estimated time to complete this process is 4 months.