In recent decades, surrogacy has emerged as a viable and accessible option for couples worldwide, enabling them to fulfill their dream of starting a family regardless of their location. This method has gained widespread acceptance and popularity, bringing immense joy to countless parents who have successfully built their homes with the invaluable support of doctors pioneering new methods of conception.
Moreover, the existence of specialized agencies has made it easier for intended parents to establish connections with the most experienced and skilled experts who can effectively address their unique requirements. These agencies act as intermediaries, streamlining the process and enabling intentional parents to access the expertise they need to navigate their journey toward parenthood.
Despite the availability of international agencies providing services in multiple countries, the presence of specific local regulations can present hurdles for these agencies to operate effectively in the intended parents’ country of residence. These legal complexities can impede the smooth operation of agencies and pose challenges for parents in their family-building journey.
For example, in China surrogacy is not allowed, unlike Brazil, where it’s a viable option. However, there are very long waiting lists for intentional parents in Brazil, which makes it a less attractive and accessible option.
Surrogacy is permitted in India, but it is restricted exclusively to heterosexual and local couples. Consequently, parents who are in a relationship with foreigners or same-sex couples seeking assisted gestation would be compelled to leave their country to pursue this process.
Given these challenges, agencies often facilitate connections between clients and clinics in countries where surrogacy is permitted, allowing individuals to freely enter without facing discriminatory barriers. This approach enables intended parents to explore options in countries where surrogacy laws are more favorable and inclusive.
Although this is a solution, the legislation of each country varies considerably depending on the service that the intentional parents require.
It is crucial to recognize that laws can impose restrictions based on factors such as sexual orientation, nationality, or purchasing power. Consequently, each destination presents a unique set of opportunities and disadvantages for clients, highlighting the importance of carefully evaluating their particular circumstances and needs.
When it comes to surrogacy, selecting the right country can be a challenging decision. This article aims to provide insights into the best destinations for surrogacy, where you can find top-notch specialists and navigate the process smoothly without encountering legal complications.
1. Colombia
Colombia has emerged as a favored destination among international agencies providing surrogacy services.
Not only does Surrogacy in Colombia offer freedom of access and stay for foreigners, but it also stands out as one of the most inclusive countries in the world, welcoming diverse communities. Additionally, Colombia provides affordable pricing options, making it an attractive choice for couples or intended parents from around the globe.
Family Aims, an international surrogacy agency, collaborates closely with renowned Colombian medical specialists from Babynova Clinic. These specialists are highly experienced in various aspects of assisted reproduction, establishing a reliable partnership to support intended parents throughout their surrogacy journey.
The waiting lists in Colombia are relatively short, ranging between 2 and 3 months. This not only provides a prompt opportunity for intentional parents but also reduces the total cost of the process, estimated at around 65,000 USD. These advantages make this country an ideal destination for those who want to resort to surrogacy, regardless of their origin.
2. United States
This destination is one of the most frequented by the local population of intentional parents. The country is also quite open, according to the inclusion of couples without discrimination, which also offers multiple clinics specialized in each method of assisted reproduction for the needs of each person.
Although agencies in Colombia may have a global reach, their main target audience is typically the local population. Foreign individuals may face obstacles in obtaining the required legal documentation, which can pose difficulties for them when pursuing surrogacy in the country.
Depending on nationality, intended parents may need specific visas, which can be expensive or outright inaccessible for some citizens. And in internal policies, since the legislation of each state is different, we must look for a city that does not penalize the practice.
As a result, the need to travel and obtain additional documentation to complete the surrogacy treatment can significantly increase the overall budget.
For this reason, the agencies do not guarantee the final cost of the procedure. Not to mention that not being a US citizen and not having social security, the number of fertilization attempts can add expenses, as well as any other additional tests, and increase the budget even more.
3. Georgia
In this particular country, surrogacy is permitted exclusively for heterosexual couples who have been in a committed relationship for a minimum duration of one year.
Georgia’s legislation determines that the intentional mother can only opt for surrogacy when she lacks a uterus or has one with notable deformities that prevent her from procreating. Although the prices in Georgia seem to point to being an ideal destination for the low costs are around 55,000 USD. The new legislation will completely prevent any foreigner from traveling to this country to carry out surrogacy from 2024, limiting the scope and options for foreign or same-sex couples.
4. Cyprus
This European country is widely favored for surrogacy due to its modern facilities and exceptional medical professionals, providing significant support throughout the surrogacy journey. Moreover, its captivating tourist attractions make it an enchanting destination, turning it into a dream location for couples looking to create a family.
Despite its popularity and attractiveness as a surrogacy destination, the high demand in this country leads to relatively higher costs compared to other destinations.
Furthermore, non-European Union citizens may encounter challenges in accessing this country, which can result in increased budget considerations for intended parents. This includes the expenses associated with procedures to obtain free access to the country and the management of the newborn’s nationality documentation.
Another factor that can alter the process and the budget is that the small local population makes clinics turn to foreign carriers , who then have to travel to another country to give birth. These items increase the estimate of 65,000 USD for surrogacy towards other unforeseen expenses.
5. Mexico
Among Latin American nations, Mexico distinguishes itself as one of the few countries that legally allows surrogacy, with specific regulations established in cities such as Guadalajara, Sinaloa, and Tabasco.
As a result, individuals interested in surrogacy may face the need to travel to specific regions or navigate the legal process in alternative states, which can introduce complexities and uncertainties. The growing demand for surrogacy in Mexico, combined with legal restrictions in other states, has led to increased costs, with a base price of approximately 75,000 USD. Furthermore, the success rates in Mexico are not as abundant or consistent, partly attributed to the comparatively lower training level of the staff. One of the main challenges faced by family management agencies is connecting their clients with specialized clinics in the country, resulting in a potentially cumbersome and more expensive process for foreigners.
Choose the ideal destination to guarantee success
Despite the absence of a singular preferred location that guarantees a swift and seamless surrogacy journey, there are various choices to consider that can cater to the unique circumstances of each couple. Creating a family is a time-consuming endeavor that necessitates meticulous planning, commencing well in advance of conception. Therefore, if you or someone you know has the aspiration to embark on a surrogacy journey towards parenthood, it is advisable to consult with medical and legal professionals to make informed decisions based on accurate information.