How long does it take to be approved and have a child placed in my home?
Most families in Virginia complete the approval process in about four months. That includes training, your home study, and background checks. Once approved, placement depends on the needs of the children in foster care. Some families receive a call soon after approval, while others may wait a little longer for the right match. The most important thing is that the process moves at the pace that’s right for both your family and the child
The timeline to become a foster parent in Virginia can vary, but on average most families are approved within 120 days (about four months). This includes completing PRIDE training, the home study process, and background checks. The actual pace depends on how quickly you complete paperwork, attend training sessions, and make yourself available for home visits.
Once you are approved, the next step is placement. Placement timing depends on the needs of children currently in foster care and the preferences you’ve shared, such as age range, number of children, or willingness to foster teens or sibling groups. Some families receive a placement almost immediately, while others may wait several weeks or months.
It’s important to remember that foster care is about finding the right match for both the child and the family. While waiting can feel difficult, it ensures that children are placed in homes where they will feel safe, supported, and welcomed. For anyone searching “How long does it take to be approved as a foster parent in Virginia?”, the answer is typically around four months, with placement timing determined by the needs of children in care.
