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.
Although many international agencies provide their services in different countries, some local legislations make it difficult for these agencies to operate in the country where the parents are established.
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.
To navigate these complexities, agencies play a crucial role in linking clients with clinics situated in countries where surrogacy is permitted, ensuring that individuals can enter without facing any form of discrimination. This approach provides intended parents with the opportunity to explore options in countries where surrogacy laws are more accommodating and inclusive.
Although this is a solution, the legislation of each country varies considerably depending on the service that the intentional parents require.
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.
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
Colombia is one of the favorite destinations of international agencies that offer surrogacy.
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
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.
However, although agencies operating in this country also tend to have an international reach, their target audience is local, as foreigners may have difficulty accessing legal documentation.
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.
This entails a considerable increase in the budget by having to travel and request additional documentation to be able to complete the treatment.
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.
The legislation in Georgia specifies that surrogacy is only available for intentional mothers who either do not have a uterus or have significant deformities that prevent them from conceiving. Despite the affordable prices in Georgia, which are around 55,000 USD, the new legislation implemented in 2024 will completely restrict foreigners from traveling to the country for surrogacy purposes. This limitation significantly narrows the scope and options for foreign couples, including 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 impact the surrogacy process and budget is the limited local population, which often leads clinics to rely on foreign carriers. In such cases, these carriers may need to travel to another country to give birth, resulting in additional expenses that can increase the initial estimate of 65,000 USD for surrogacy.
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 means that individuals interested in pursuing surrogacy may need to travel to these specific regions or navigate the legal process in other states with potential uncertainty. The recent demand for this service in the country, as well as the legal restrictions in the rest of the states, raises the costs, which are around 75,000 USD base, the success rates are not very numerous or recurrent, either, because the staff isn’t as well-trained as in other destinations. One of the biggest difficulties that family management agencies find is connecting their clients with specialist clinics in this country, which can result in a tedious and much 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.
