For many intended parents out there, the dream of building a family through surrogacy often leads them to explore international options. High costs, legal restrictions, and long waitlists in their home country can make domestic surrogacy more challenging. International surrogacy, on the other hand, can offer more hope, affordability, and access to highly skilled professionals.
However, navigating the surrogacy process from one border to another isn’t always that simple. You need to have a good understanding of the legal, medical, and emotional landscapes involved in various countries. Let’s explore some of the top international surrogate services, key destinations, and how to find a trustworthy agency abroad.
Why Choose International Surrogacy?
If you are an intended parent looking outside your home country for surrogacy options, then you may be doing it for one or more of the following reasons:
- Lower Costs: In countries like Georgia or Mexico, surrogacy is considerably less expensive than in the US or Canada.
- Favorable Legal Environments: Some countries have clearer and more supportive surrogacy laws for intended parents.
- Availability: International agencies may have shorter waitlists for surrogate mother matching.
- Access to High-Quality Care: Reputable clinics in countries like Ukraine and Colombia offer excellent medical facilities and experienced professionals.
Top International Surrogacy Destinations
Here’s a look at some of the more popular and legally recognized countries for international surrogacy.
Georgia
Georgia offers one of the more affordable and legally secure surrogacy frameworks in the world. However, only married heterosexual couples are eligible. Costs can vary and can fall between $40,000 and $60,000, in many cases. And Georgian law protects intended parents. Surrogates don’t have parental rights, and the birth certificates are issued in the intended parents’ names when the child is born.
Mexico
Mexico, especially in states like Tabasco and Sinaloa, has become a go-to destination for LGBTQ+ couples and even singles. Costs average between $45,000 and $70,000, and the legal framework does vary state to state. For this reason, it’s recommended that you work with an agency familiar with regional laws and that can help with the exit process once the baby is born.
Colombia
Colombia is another popular international surrogacy option because it offers inclusive surrogacy options for married couples, same-sex couples, and even single parents. Costs can vary but typically fall between $50,000 and $80,000. Surrogacy here is legal, and many agencies offer full-service programs including legal and psychological support.
Ukraine
Before the war, Ukraine was actually a leading destination for surrogacy because of its strong legal protections and affordable care. Some services have resumed in safer areas of the country. In Ukraine, surrogacy is legal for married heterosexual couples, and the birth certificates name the intended parents directly.
United States
The US still offers some of the highest medical standards and strong legal protections in surrogacy-friendly states. However, the costs are estimated to be much higher, often starting around $120,000 and going up to $180,000 or more.
How to Choose an International Surrogacy Agency
One of the things that should top your list of things to do is finding reputable surrogate companies abroad that are safe, ethical, and can offer you a smooth journey. Here are some of our top tips.
Check for Transparency
Find an agency that clearly outlines its services, pricing, and legal processes. They should be completely upfront about what is and isn’t included in the packages they offer. Never be afraid to ask questions if you are unsure about something or need more information.
Ask About Surrogate Screening
Ethical agencies do perform thorough medical and psychological screenings for every surrogate. They should also provide them with fair compensation and support throughout the journey.
Prioritize Legal Expertise
Work with an agency that partners with qualified legal professionals in both the destination country and your home country to ensure citizenship, parental rights, and passport logistics are handled properly.
Look for Testimonials and Reviews
It never hurts to seek out third-party reviews or connect with previous intended parents through support forums or social media to get unfiltered insights.
Evaluate Communication and Support
The surrogacy process can go on for months and months, so you want to find an agency that provides regular updates and has a multilingual staff who is responsive to your concerns.
Important Considerations for International Surrogacy
- Legal and Citizenship Issues: Each country has its own laws about who is considered the legal parent in a surrogacy arrangement. Plan early for how your child will receive citizenship and a passport.
- Medical Standards and Safety: Make sure the agency you work with partners with licensed IVF clinics that follow international standards. Ask about surrogate prenatal care, delivery procedures, and emergency plans.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Always be aware and respectful toward cultural differences. This can go a long way when it’s time to build trust with your surrogate, and it also helps you avoid miscommunication.
- Travel and Logistics: Plan for multiple trips abroad, including for the embryo transfer and birth. After your baby is born, it can take weeks or even months to finalize all of the exit paperwork. Make sure your budget and schedule account for this additional time.
Final Thoughts
Surrogate services international can open doors to parenthood when it might otherwise feel out of reach. With the right preparation and guidance, it can be a joyful and rewarding experience, but you need to choose the right partner to go on this journey with you.
From Georgia to Mexico and elsewhere, the global surrogacy landscape offers you more opportunities than ever before. Just take your time, do your research, and ask all the right questions.
