by 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.
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.
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.
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.
Given these challenges, agencies often facilitate connections between clients and clinics in countries where surrogacy is permitted, allowing individuals to freely enter without facing discriminatory barriers. This approach enables intended parents to explore options in countries where surrogacy laws are more favorable and inclusive.
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.
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.
Not only does Surrogacy in Colombia offer freedom of access and stay for foreigners, but it also stands out as one of the most inclusive countries in the world, welcoming diverse communities. Additionally, Colombia provides affordable pricing options, making it an attractive choice for couples or intended parents from around the globe.
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.
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.
While agencies operating in Colombia may have an international presence, their primary focus is often on the local market. Foreigners may encounter challenges in accessing the necessary legal documentation, which can make the process more difficult for them.
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.
Consequently, the requirement to travel and obtain additional documentation adds a significant cost burden to the surrogacy treatment 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
Surrogacy in this country is limited to heterosexual couples who have been in a relationship for at least one year.
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.
The significant demand for surrogacy in this country contributes to higher costs compared to alternative destinations, despite its appeal and desirability for intended parents.
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.
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.
As a result, individuals interested in surrogacy may face the need to travel to specific regions or navigate the legal process in alternative states, which can introduce complexities and uncertainties. The growing demand for surrogacy in Mexico, combined with legal restrictions in other states, has led to increased costs, with a base price of approximately 75,000 USD. Furthermore, the success rates in Mexico are not as abundant or consistent, partly attributed to the comparatively lower training level of the staff. One of the main challenges faced by family management agencies is connecting their clients with specialized clinics in the country, resulting in a potentially cumbersome and more expensive process for foreigners.
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.
