Nowadays, the possibility of forming a family anywhere in the world has become viable and accessible for all couples thanks to surrogacy. This option has gained popularity and acceptance in the last decades, providing great happiness to numerous parents who have managed to build their homes through the invaluable support of doctors who have developed new methods for 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.
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.
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.
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 connecting clients with clinics in different countries where surrogacy is allowed can be a solution, it is important to note that legislation regarding the specific services required by intentional parents can vary significantly from one country to another.
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
Colombia is one of the favorite destinations of international agencies that offer surrogacy.
In addition to allowing freedom of access and stay for foreigners, it is one of the most inclusive countries with a community in the world, it also has affordable prices for couples or intended parents from all over the world.
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
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.
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.
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
Surrogacy in this country is limited to heterosexual couples who have been in a relationship for at least 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
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.
The significant demand for surrogacy in this country contributes to higher costs compared to alternative destinations, despite its appeal and desirability for intended parents.
In addition, it also represents difficulties in access for citizens who don’t belong to the European Union, which can increase the budget calculated by the intended parents at the time of the procedures that allow them free access to the country, as well as 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 is one of the few Latin American countries that allows surrogacy, with clear regulations currently established 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
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.
