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.
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.
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 allowed, but exclusively to heterosexual and local couples, so those parents who are in a relationship with foreigners, or same-sex couples who wish to opt for assisted gestation, would be forced to leave their country to be able to carry out this process.
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 about surrogacy can vary significantly, imposing restrictions based on factors such as sexual orientation, nationality, or financial capacity. As a result, each destination presents a distinct combination of advantages and disadvantages for clients, underscoring the necessity to thoroughly assess their cases and requirements.
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
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.
Surrogacy in Colombia offers the advantage of relatively short waiting lists, typically lasting between 2 and 3 months. This not only allows intentional parents to proceed promptly but also contributes to a more cost-effective process, with an estimated total cost of around 65,000 USD. These benefits position Colombia as an excellent destination for those considering surrogacy, regardless of their background or country of 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.
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.
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.
As a result, the need to travel and obtain additional documentation to complete the surrogacy treatment can significantly increase the overall budget.
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.
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 is one of the favorite destinations in Europe for its modern facilities and expert medical staff that greatly facilitates surrogacy. In addition to being one of the favorite destinations of couples for its tourist value, this makes it a dream place to start 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.
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.
The relatively small local population necessitates the involvement of foreign carriers in the surrogacy process, which can lead to additional costs. These costs may include travel expenses for the carrier to give birth in another country, thereby potentially increasing the overall estimate of 65,000 USD for surrogacy due to 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.
