International Surrogacy for US Citizens
What US citizens need to know about surrogacy overseas
Ask for Preparation AdviceWhy Consider Surrogacy Abroad?
For many US citizens, the journey to parenthood leads to exploring international surrogacy. This path is often chosen for its unique blend of affordability, legal clarity, and access to top-tier care, making it a compelling alternative to domestic surrogacy.
Cost effectiveness: Surrogacy costs in the United States can be overwhelming. International surrogacy often presents a more affordable option, providing competitive pricing while maintaining high standards of care and professionalism.
Legal protections: Certain countries offer well-defined legal frameworks for surrogacy that prioritize the rights of intended parents. These protections can provide peace of mind and a clearer path through the process.
Access to qualified surrogates and donors: By going international, intended parents can access a broader pool of thoroughly vetted surrogates and egg donors. This means greater opportunities to find the right match for your family-building journey.
Where Do Most US Citizens Engage in Surrogacy?
Several destinations have emerged as popular choices for US citizens seeking international surrogacy:
Other Surrogacy Destinations for US Citizens
Beyond the popular options mentioned, there are several other countries where US citizens can explore surrogacy opportunities.
A word of caution: We strongly advise against pursuing surrogacy opportunities in certain countries. This is often due to a lack of legal protections, ethical concerns, unreliable healthcare infrastructure, political or economic instability, challenges with immigration and citizenship, or risks of hidden costs and scams. These factors can jeopardise the safety, well-being, and success of the surrogacy process.
Such countries include:
Argentina
Cambodia
Greece
Guatemala
India
Kenya
Laos
Nepal
North Cyprus
Ukraine
What to Expect When Engaging in International Surrogacy
Embarking on an international surrogacy journey involves navigating several important aspects. Here’s what you can expect:
Extensive travelling
Be prepared for necessary travel to your chosen country for appointments, the birth of your child, and possibly follow-up visits. Familiarise yourself with the travel logistics to guarantee a smooth journey as much as possible.
Legal considerations
The legal aspects of international surrogacy are complex and vary greatly by country. Parents can expect to contend with various legal frameworks in both the destination country and the US. These frameworks often cover areas such as parental rights, citizenship, and the enforceability of surrogacy contracts.
Medical protocols
Each country may have their own medical protocols and rules, which can vary significantly from others. Parents often have to navigate different practices and regulations regarding IVF, embryo transfer, and prenatal care. Each destination has its own set of medical guidelines that must be followed to ensure the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby.
Preparing for Your
International Surrogacy Journey
Proper preparation is essential for a smooth surrogacy experience.
Here are some key steps you need to take:
Do comprehensive research
Take the time to thoroughly research potential countries, agencies, and legal requirements. Understanding these elements will help you make informed decisions that align with your family’s values and needs.
Plan your budget
carefully
While the costs of pursuing surrogacy opportunities overseas may be lower, it’s important to consider all other associated costs, including travel, legal fees, and medical expenses. Careful budgeting will help reduce stress and make sure you’re financially prepared.
Establish clear communication
Effective communication is key to ensuring a smooth surrogacy process. Regular and transparent communication with your agency, legal assistance, medical team, and surrogate will help set expectations and keep everyone on the same page.
Key Considerations
Along with your preparations, keep these important factors in mind when navigating international surrogacy:
- Legal parentag: Understand the laws regarding legal parentage in your chosen destination. Each country has its own regulations, so make sure you’re not caught unaware.
- Cultural awareness: Embracing the cultural norms of the destination country enhances the experience. Building strong relationships with your surrogate and agency fosters trust and communication.
- Healthcare standards: Research the medical facilities and clinics in your destination. Confirming they meet international care standards is vital for your health and safety.
- Shipping embryos/gametes: If transporting embryos or gametes is part of your journey, make sure to understand the regulations and logistics involved. Proper preparation helps avoid potential complications.
Learn More About Surrogacy Abroad
Explore Growing Families’ selection of informative articles that dive deeper into surrogacy abroad.
The Realities of Cross-Border Surrogacy: Lessons from Darragh McCullough’s Experience
The recent experience of RTÉ presenter Darragh McCullough highlights the significant challenges faced by Irish intended parents navigating international surrogacy. While surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for those unable to conceive naturally, the journey is fraught with legal, logistical, and bureaucratic hurdles that can complicate the joyous moment of …
The Rising Risks of Unregulated Surrogacy Agencies
I recently wrote an article shedding light on the growing issue of unregulated international surrogacy agencies exploiting desperate intended parents. In the article I talked about how some agencies mislead parents, making false legal claims and placing surrogates, newborns, and intended parents in precarious legal situations. The surrogacy landscape in …
Why Legal Regulation is Crucial for Surrogacy
As someone deeply invested in the future of surrogacy, I despaired watching the recent Al Jazeera investigation, The Philippines: Wombs for Hire. The documentary sheds light on a dark reality that many would prefer to ignore: the unchecked exploitation of women in a system that lacks both legal oversight and …
Upcoming & Recent Events
Stay informed by participating in upcoming Growing Families free webinars or watching recordings of our past webinars.
Online Event
How Surrogacy Works in the USA (a Guide for Australians)
The USA is a top destination for Australian intended parents, offering unparalleled legal protections and access to advanced medical care. …
Sat, 29 March 11:00 am
Online Event
How Surrogacy Works in the USA (a Guide for Europeans)
The surrogacy process in the USA can be intricate, particularly for intended parents from countries like the UK, Ireland, France, …
Sat, 25 January 5:00 pm
Online Event
US Surrogacy: Upcoming Changes & Affordability Tips
Navigating affordable surrogacy in the U.S. can feel overwhelming, with costs varying significantly between states, agencies, and providers. In this …
Sat, 14 December 11:00 am
FAQS
Costs can vary widely depending on the destination and services required. However, many find international surrogacy to be a more affordable option compared to domestic alternatives.
Working with legal experts who specialise in both US and international surrogacy laws is crucial. Their expertise will help secure your rights as intended parents.
Researching the legal framework, overall costs, quality of medical care, and cultural context of potential destinations will help you make a well-informed decision.
In most cases, children born through international surrogacy are eligible for US citizenship. Consulting legal professionals will further ensure you follow the proper procedures to secure this status.
Ready to Start Your Surrogacy Journey?
Schedule a consultation with the Growing Families team and take the first step toward parenthood.
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