Ensuring Success: Exploring the Top 5 Countries for Gestational Surrogacy Conditions

The possibility of creating a family has become a reality for couples across the globe, thanks to the increasing viability and accessibility of surrogacy. Over the past few decades, this option has gained remarkable popularity and acceptance, bringing immeasurable happiness to numerous parents who have achieved their dream of building a loving home, all made possible by the groundbreaking advancements in conception developed by dedicated doctors.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized agencies has simplified the process of connecting intended parents with highly qualified experts who can address their specific needs. These agencies play a crucial role in facilitating the collaboration between parents and experts, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey toward fulfilling their desires.

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.

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.

All these complications make the agencies connect the clients with clinics in different countries where surrogacy is allowed and everyone can enter freely without any discrimination.

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.

Laws can be restrictive depending on sexual orientation, nationality, or purchasing power, so each destination represents a series of opportunities and disadvantages for each client, depending on their particular case that needs to be carefully evaluated.

Choosing the ideal country for surrogacy can be a complex task in this context. In this article, we will guide you through the best destinations that offer a combination of highly skilled specialists, seamless procedures, and a legal framework that minimizes potential complications.

1. Colombia

Colombia has emerged as a favored destination among international agencies providing surrogacy services.

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.

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

Colombia is a popular choice among local intentional parents, making it one of the most frequented destinations for surrogacy. The country is known for its inclusive approach, welcoming couples without discrimination. Additionally, Colombia boasts a range of specialized clinics offering various methods of assisted reproduction to cater to the unique needs of each individual.

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.

As a consequence, agencies are unable to offer a definitive cost for the surrogacy procedure, considering the variables involved. Non-US citizens without social security face additional expenses, such as the number of fertilization attempts and supplementary tests, which can significantly escalate the overall budget.

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.

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

Renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled medical personnel, this European destination is a top choice among couples seeking surrogacy. Its appealing tourist attractions further enhance its reputation, making it an ideal place to fulfill the dream of starting 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.

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

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.