International Surrogacy for Canadian Citizens

This page provides information about international surrogacy for Canadians.  If you’re a Canadian citizen seeking information on domestic surrogacy options in Canada, click here.

For Canadian citizens, surrogacy offers a viable and structured  path to parenthood, both within Canada and abroad. Whether you  are navigating infertility, are a same-sex couple, or simply require  a surrogate to help bring your dreams of having a family to life, surrogacy can be a deeply rewarding option.

Canada’s altruistic surrogacy model, combined with a supportive  legal framework and excellent healthcare, provides a clear path for those pursuing surrogacy domestically. However, many Canadians also choose to engage in international surrogacy, seeking alternatives in countries with different frameworks and regulations.

img-s3-For-Canadian-citizens-surrogacy-offers

Why Consider Surrogacy Abroad?

Where Do Canadian Citizens  
Engage in Surrogacy?

Many Canadian citizens explore surrogacy both domestically and
internationally. Popular destinations for international surrogacy include:

The USA

The USA is known for its robust legal protections and access to high-quality fertility care, offering extensive options and excellent surrogate screening processes. However, pursuing surrogacy in the USA can be costly.

Colombia

Colombia is a newer but increasingly popular destination for surrogacy, offering more affordable options for both heterosexual and same-sex couples. Backed by a supportive legal system, it provides an accessible and reliable path to parenthood.

Other Surrogacy Destinations for Canadian Citizens

Along with the popular options above, here are a few more countries that are gaining recognition for their surrogacy services:

Mexico

Georgia

Ghana

What to Expect  When Engaging in International Surrogacy

When opting for international surrogacy, the journey may look different from a domestic one. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Legal Process

Every country has its own legal framework for surrogacy, and it’s essential to work with legal professionals who are well-versed in both Canadian and foreign laws. Securing parentage for your child and understanding the citizenship requirements upon your return to Canada are vital steps in the process.

Costs

International surrogacy can sometimes be more expensive than domestic surrogacy, depending on the destination. Costs include not only medical and legal fees but also travel, accommodation, and the surrogate’s compensation (where allowed).

Timelines

Matching with a surrogate can be quicker in countries where paid surrogacy is legal, but timelines still vary. You should expect the surrogacy process to take anywhere from 18 to 30 months in total.

Healthcare Standards

It’s important to ensure that the country you choose has reputable fertility clinics and excellent healthcare standards for both the surrogate and your baby.

Preparing for Your International
Surrogacy Journey as a Canadian Citizen

Planning is key to a successful international surrogacy journey. Here are steps to help you prepare:

Research Your Destination: Different countries have different legal frameworks, costs, and surrogacy processes. Work with professionals who are familiar with surrogacy law in your chosen country and Canada.
Consult Legal Experts: You’ll need legal counsel both in Canada and in the destination country to ensure that your rights, and those of your surrogate’s, are protected. Legal experts will also guide you through the process of securing Canadian citizenship for your child.
Choose a Reputable Agency or Clinic: Work with a well-established agency or fertility clinic that has a track record of helping Canadian citizens navigate international surrogacy, providing you peace of mind throughout the process.
Plan for Travel: You’ll need to travel to your chosen destination  for various stages of the surrogacy process, including the birth. Make sure you’re prepared for extended stays abroad, especially during the final stages.
Prepare for Parentage & Citizenship: After the birth, you’ll  need to secure a legal declaration of parentage and apply for  your child’s Canadian citizenship and passport. Work closely  with your legal team to ensure this process is smooth.

img-s8-Preparing-for-Your-International-Surrogacy-Canadian-Citizen

Important Considerations for Canadians Citizens
Embarking on International Surrogacy

Legal Framework

The legal process for securing parentage and citizenship is critical.  Be prepared for a multistep process that involves the authorities of both your destination country and Canada. You may need a court order or similar documentation so that your child is legally  recognized as yours in Canada.

Healthcare Quality

Verify that the fertility clinics and medical facilities in your destination country meet international standards for both the surrogate’s care and the baby’s health. Clinics should have excellent reputations and offer comprehensive medical support throughout the pregnancy.

Surrogate Compensation

If you’re considering surrogacy abroad, ensure you understand  the financial expectations in countries where paid surrogacy is legal. Transparency about costs is crucial when planning your budget.

Post-Birth Logistics

After your child’s birth, you’ll need to apply for their Canadian citizenship and passport, which can take time. Plan for a longer stay abroad until these documents are issued.

FAQS

While Canada has a strong surrogacy framework, some Canadians choose to pursue international surrogacy to access paid surrogates, avoid longer wait times, or benefit from different legal frameworks in other countries.

Canadians often look to the USA, Georgia, and Colombia for international surrogacy, with each offering distinct advantages in terms of cost, legal protections, and access to surrogates.

Costs vary by destination but can range from CAD 80,000 to 150,000, depending on the country, legal fees, medical costs, surrogate compensation, and travel.

After your baby is born, you’ll need to apply for their Canadian citizenship and passport. This process involves securing a declaration of parentage in the destination country and working with Canadian authorities to finalize the paperwork.

You’ll need to work with legal professionals in both the destination country and Canada so that your parentage is recognized. They will help you obtain legal declaration or court order in the destination country and confirm the legal transfer of parentage upon return to Canada.