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.
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.
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
Surrogacy in Colombia has gained popularity among international agencies, positioning it as one of the preferred destinations for intended parents.
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.
Colombia boasts relatively short waiting lists for surrogacy, typically ranging between 2 and 3 months. This not only offers intentional parents a prompt opportunity to start their journey but also helps reduce the overall cost of the process, estimated to be around 65,000 USD. These advantages position Colombia as an ideal destination for individuals seeking surrogacy, regardless of their nationality or origin.
2. United States
Among the local population of intentional parents, Colombia stands out as a highly sought-after destination. The country’s inclusive environment ensures that couples are not discriminated against based on their background. Moreover, Colombia is home to multiple specialized clinics that offer a comprehensive array of assisted reproduction methods, catering to the specific requirements 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.
The nationality of intended parents can affect their surrogacy plans, as specific visas may be required, and the cost or accessibility of these visas can vary. In addition, considering the differing legislation across states, it becomes important to choose a city within the country that does not impose penalties on surrogacy practices.
Consequently, the requirement to travel and obtain additional documentation adds a significant cost burden to the surrogacy treatment 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 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.
Even so, the demand that exists in this country for surrogacy is high so their costs are more expensive 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
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.
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
Although there is no single preferred destination that ensures quick and hassle-free surrogacy, there are options to choose the one that best suits each couple. Starting a family is a long process, which requires a lot of time and meticulous planning that begins long before conception. So, if you or someone you know desires to start a journey to parenthood through surrogacy, the best advice is to consult with medical and legal professionals to make the most accurate decisions.