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.
In addition, the presence of specialized agencies has facilitated the connection between these intentional parents and the most qualified experts to solve their needs.
While numerous international agencies offer their services across various countries, the presence of certain local legislations can pose challenges for these agencies to operate in the country where the intended parents are located. This legal complexity can create obstacles in facilitating seamless assistance for parents seeking to start a family.
To exemplify, China does not permit surrogacy, whereas Brazil provides a viable avenue for intentional parents. Nevertheless, the significant backlog of cases and extensive waiting lists in Brazil make it a less attractive and accessible option for those in search of surrogacy as a means to start a family.
In India, surrogacy is legally permissible, but only for heterosexual couples and residents. As a result, individuals in relationships with foreigners or same-sex couples desiring assisted gestation would be obliged to seek options outside their country’s borders to undertake this procedure.
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.
While this approach of connecting clients with clinics in different countries may offer a solution, it is essential to acknowledge that the legislation surrounding the specific services sought by intentional parents can differ greatly between countries.
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.
In this context, it can be difficult to choose which country to carry out surrogacy. In this article, we will tell you which are the best destinations to carry out the procedure with the best specialists and without legal problems.
1. Colombia
Surrogacy in Colombia has gained popularity among international agencies, positioning it as one of the preferred destinations for intended parents.
In addition to its open-door policy for foreigners, Colombia prides itself on being one of the most inclusive countries globally, embracing diverse communities. Moreover, Colombia offers competitive and affordable pricing options, making it a desirable destination for couples or intended parents from all corners of the world.
Family Aims, an international surrogacy agency, works closely with Colombian medical specialists from Babynova Clinic, recognized for their experience in all areas of assisted reproduction.
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 their nationality, intended parents may encounter challenges related to obtaining specific visas, which can be expensive or even unattainable for some individuals. Furthermore, due to variations in legislation among different states, it is essential to seek a city within the country that does not penalize or restrict surrogacy, ensuring a more favorable environment for the process.
This entails a considerable increase in the budget by having to travel and request additional documentation to be able to complete the treatment.
Due to these factors, agencies cannot provide a guaranteed final cost for the surrogacy procedure. Moreover, for non-US citizens without social security, the number of fertilization attempts and additional tests can incur extra expenses, further increasing the overall budget.
3. Georgia
In this country, surrogacy is exclusively allowed for heterosexual couples with more than 1 year of relationship.
In Georgia, the current legislation permits intentional mothers to pursue surrogacy only if they lack a functioning uterus or have substantial deformities that hinder their ability to conceive. Although Georgia is known for its comparatively low costs, with prices averaging around 55,000 USD, the new legislation enacted from 2024 onwards will entirely prevent foreign individuals from traveling to the country for surrogacy. As a result, this legislative change significantly restricts the opportunities and choices available to foreign and 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.
Additionally, for individuals who are not citizens of the European Union, accessing this country may pose difficulties, leading to potential budgetary implications for intended parents. This includes costs associated with procedures required to obtain free access to the country, as well as the complexities associated with managing 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
Mexico stands out as one of the limited number of Latin American countries that permits surrogacy, with well-defined regulations in place, particularly in Guadalajara, Sinaloa, and Tabasco.
This implies that individuals interested in pursuing surrogacy may need to travel to these specific regions or navigate the legal process in other states, which can introduce potential uncertainties. Due to the recent surge in demand for surrogacy in the country and the legal restrictions in other states, costs have increased, with a base price of around 75,000 USD. Additionally, the success rates are not as high or consistent compared to other destinations, partially due to the less extensive training of the staff.
Choose the ideal destination to guarantee success
While there is no one definitive destination that guarantees a fast and trouble-free surrogacy experience, there are multiple options available to select the one that aligns best with each couple’s needs. Initiating a family is a lengthy process that demands ample time and thorough planning, commencing well before conception. Hence, if you or someone you know wishes to embark on the surrogacy path towards parenthood, seeking advice from medical and legal experts is highly recommended to ensure well-informed decisions.