Surrogacy is a life-changing option available for many individuals and couples who want to start a family but can’t do so through more traditional means. However, the high cost of surrogacy in countries like the United States can be prohibitive. Fortunately, several countries around the world offer more affordable surrogacy options while also maintaining high standards of care and legal protections.
Ukraine
Ukraine has become one of the more popular destinations for affordable surrogacy. The country offers a more than favorable legal framework for international surrogacy that allows both heterosexual married couples as well as single women to pursue it.
The costs of surrogacy in Ukraine are also significantly lower than those you would find in the US and typically range between $40,000 and $60,000. This includes medical expenses, surrogate compensation, legal fees, and agency fees. Ukraine also offers advanced medical facilities and experienced fertility clinics. This all ensures high standards of care for the surrogate and the intended parents.
Georgia
Georgia is another country that offers affordable surrogacy with a well-established legal framework. The cost of surrogacy in Georgia is similar to that in Ukraine. Georgia allows surrogacy for heterosexual married couples, and the process is supported by clear legal regulations that protect the rights of the surrogate and the intended parents.
The country has reputable fertility clinics with experienced medical professionals who provide high-quality care throughout the surrogacy journey.
Mexico
Mexico has also emerged as a cost-effective surrogacy destination. This is especially true in states like Tabasco and Sinaloa, where the surrogacy laws happen to be much more favorable. The cost of surrogacy in Mexico typically ranges between $40,000 and $70,000. Mexico offers surrogacy services to both heterosexual couples and single individuals.
The country’s proximity to the United States makes it a convenient option for American intended parents, and many Mexican fertility clinics are staffed by English-speaking professionals with extensive experience in surrogacy.
Colombia
Colombia is also gaining popularity as an affordable surrogacy destination, with costs ranging from $50,000 to $70,000. The country allows surrogacy for heterosexual couples, single women, and same-sex couples, making it a more inclusive option. Colombian surrogacy laws provide legal protections for everyone involved.
The country’s fertility clinics are also known for their high standards of medical care. Additionally, Colombia’s growing medical tourism industry has made it easier for international intended parents to navigate the surrogacy process.
Greece
Greece offers affordable surrogacy options for heterosexual couples, with costs typically ranging from $70,000 to $90,000. While it is more expensive than some other countries on this list, Greece’s surrogacy laws provide solid legal protections for intended parents and surrogates.
Greek fertility clinics are known for their high standards of care and advanced medical technologies. Additionally, Greece’s status as a European Union member state provides certain advantages for intended parents from other EU countries.
India
India was once considered a top destination for surrogacy due to its low costs and experienced medical professionals. However, recent changes in legislation have restricted surrogacy to Indian citizens and residents.
While it may no longer be an option for international intended parents, it remains an affordable option for Indian nationals. The costs typically range between $25,000 and $45,000. The country has a well-established surrogacy infrastructure in place and several experienced fertility clinics.
Why Is the Cost of Surrogacy High in the United States?
The cost of surrogacy in the United States is significantly higher than in other countries due to many factors, including the legal and regulatory framework, surrogate compensation, medical expenses, agency fees, and more.
The laws and framework involving surrogacy vary from state to state and include surrogacy contracts, parental rights issues, and the legalities involved with establishing parentage. The costs also come from having to hire an experienced surrogacy attorney to draft, review, and finalize contracts, as well as to handle legal proceedings.
Surrogates in the states also receive higher compensation compared to those in the countries we have listed. Most compensation packages include a base fee for the surrogate, along with additional payments for various milestones and potential medical procedures.
The medical costs associated with surrogacy in the US are among the highest in the world. Many of these costs also include fertility treatments, like IVF, prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal care. The advanced medical technologies and high standards of care available in the US also contribute to these higher costs.
When considering surrogacy abroad, it’s important to research each country’s legal framework thoroughly and take a good look at their medical facilities and overall costs. Working with a reputable international surrogacy agency and the right legal professionals can help you get through the complexities of international surrogacy and can help ensure a safe and successful surrogacy journey.