How much does surrogacy cost?

The cost of Surrogacy in the United States is higher than in other countries. About 50% of the budget goes to the surrogate’s compensation. Another third goes to agency and legal fees. The rest covers clinic procedures and expenses.

Most money is paid upfront, to the clinic, agency, or into an escrow account.

Overseas, surrogacy programs often have a month-by-month payment plan. Fees are charged as services are performed.

Get in touch for FREE SURROGACY CONSULTING:

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The cost varies by country or jurisdiction due to legal requirements and regulations.

In the US, surrogacy is expensive, costing around $130,000 to $200,000. California is pricier due to high demand and favorable laws.

International surrogacy costs are much lower, about 70% less than in the USA.

 

More Resources to Read:

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Is Surrogacy in Ukraine legal?

Affordable Surrogacy in Ukraine for Married Couples

What is average cost of surrogacy with breakdown

So, how much does surrogacy cost– Surrogacy Cost Breakdown for intended parents.

Let’s look at the average costs for each stage of surrogacy.

• Compensation for the Surrogate Mother

The surrogate gets $55,000 – $75,000 upfront into escrow after signing the contract.

Compensation includes a base amount, pregnancy and maternity expenses, and extras like lost wages and travel costs.

In the US, a surrogate gets a monthly salary of $35,000 to $55,000. She also gets benefits worth $5,000 to $10,000.

The compensation should be agreed upon by the intended parents and the surrogate, considering various factors and legal requirements.

• Screening & Support for the Surrogate Mother

The screening costs $4,000 – $5,000, paid once the surrogate is matched with the intended parents.

Screening ensures the surrogate is healthy and committed to carrying the baby to term.

Screening costs are usually covered by agency fees. If paid separately, it’s about $4,000. All surrogates must undergo screenings to ensure they’re ready for surrogacy.

• Prenatal Care for surrogate mother

Prenatal care costs $5,000 – $10,000, paid monthly from the escrow account.

Compensation for prenatal care starts after the embryo transfer, around 3 to 4 weeks. The intended parents may cover insurance expenses at this stage.

• Surrogacy Legal costs

Legal fees are $8,000 – $10,000, paid at contract drafting and in the third trimester.

Legal services include drafting the surrogacy contract and other essential steps. These protect the rights of all parties and establish legal parental rights.

• Surrogacy Agency Fees and Services

Agency fees are $30,000 – $40,000, paid at the start of the journey.

Working with a surrogacy agency can be costly but offers great support. Agencies help with screening, matching, and legal and medical coordination. They also provide emotional support to all parties involved.

Medical costs, like IVF, are a big part of the expense. These include fertility treatments, prenatal care, and any needed medical procedures. The cost can go up if there are complications or extra treatments.

• Surrogacy insurance is also a big cost. 

It covers the surrogate’s pregnancy-related care. After the baby is born, the intended parents take over the insurance.

Ensuring good insurance is key to covering the surrogate’s care. This includes prenatal and delivery costs. The cost of insurance can vary a lot.

Private health insurance for newborns can be around $25,000. This should be added to the overall cost.

Factors Affecting Surrogacy Costs

The cost of surrogacy can vary significantly based on a variety of factors. Understanding these factors can help intended parents plan and budget for the surrogacy process. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors affecting surrogacy costs:

1. Location

• Country/Region: Surrogacy costs vary greatly depending on the country where the surrogacy takes place. For example:
  • United States: Generally the most expensive, with costs ranging from $90,000 to $150,000.
  • Ukraine, Georgia: More affordable, with costs between $30,000 and $60,000.
  • Mexico, India: Costs usually range from $40,000 to $70,000.

2. Type of Surrogacy Arrangement

• Gestational Surrogacy: Typically more expensive as it involves IVF procedures where the surrogate is not biologically related to the child.
• Traditional Surrogacy: Less common and may be less expensive, as it involves the surrogate using her own egg.

3. Medical and Fertility Clinic Costs

• IVF Procedures: Costs for in vitro fertilization can vary based on the clinic and the number of IVF cycles required.
• Embryo Transfer: The number of embryo transfers can impact overall costs.
• Prenatal Care: Medical care for the surrogate throughout the pregnancy adds to the total cost.

4. Surrogate Compensation

• Base Compensation: Varies by country and the surrogate’s experience. For example, surrogates in the U.S. may receive $30,000 to $50,000, while in other countries, the compensation might be lower.
• Additional Compensation: This includes payments for carrying multiples, C-sections, and other medical procedures.

5. Legal and Administrative Fees

• Contracts: Legal contracts to protect the rights of both the surrogate and the intended parents can be costly, especially in countries with complex legal frameworks.
• Parental Rights: Legal processes to establish parental rights, such as court orders or adoption proceedings, can add to the cost.

6. Agency Fees

• Surrogacy Agency: Working with an agency can provide additional support and services, but it also adds to the overall cost. Agency fees can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more.

7. Egg Donor or Sperm Donor Costs

• Egg Donor: If an egg donor is required, the costs can increase significantly, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
• Sperm Donor: Using a sperm donor may also add to the costs, though typically less expensive than egg donation.

8. Insurance and Healthcare

• Health Insurance: Costs related to the surrogate’s health insurance, especially if additional coverage is required, can be significant.
• Life Insurance: Some arrangements require life insurance policies for the surrogate, which adds to the total cost.

9. Travel and Accommodation

• Intended Parents’ Travel: Costs for the intended parents to travel to the surrogate’s location for medical procedures and the birth.
• Surrogate’s Travel: If the surrogate needs to travel for medical appointments or the delivery, those expenses are usually covered by the intended parents.

10. Miscellaneous Expenses

• Maternity Clothing: Allowances for the surrogate’s maternity clothing.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the surrogate if she needs to take time off work.
• Childcare: If the surrogate has other children, childcare costs might be covered.

11. Number of Attempts

• IVF Attempts: The number of IVF attempts required can significantly impact costs. Some programs offer unlimited attempts, while others charge per cycle.

12. Unexpected Costs

• Complications: Medical complications can increase costs.
• Legal Disputes: Any legal disputes or challenges that arise can also add to the expenses.

Table: Sample Breakdown of Surrogacy Costs in the United States

Category	Estimated Cost Range
Medical and IVF Costs	$20,000 – $50,000
Surrogate Base Compensation	$30,000 – $50,000
Agency Fees	$10,000 – $30,000
Legal Fees	$10,000 – $15,000
Egg Donor Costs	$5,000 – $15,000
Insurance and Healthcare	$10,000 – $25,000
Insurance and Healthcare	$10,000 – $25,000
Miscellaneous Expenses	$5,000 – $10,000
Total Estimated Cost	$90,000 – $150,000

 

Surrogacy costs are influenced by a combination of factors, including location, type of surrogacy, medical expenses, legal requirements, and surrogate compensation. By understanding these factors, intended parents can better plan and manage their budget for the surrogacy journey.

How can you reduce the total cost of surrogacy?

1. Research and compare different surrogacy agencies: Look into various agencies and their fees. Find ones with clear pricing and packages that fit your needs.
2. Consider independent surrogacy arrangements: You might choose to work directly with a surrogate. This cuts out the agency but requires more effort and legal help. A friend or family member could also carry your child.
3. Explore international surrogacy options: But, make sure you know the legal rules of the country you choose. Surrogacy costs in some places are much lower than in the US.
4. Review insurance options: Check what insurance covers during surrogacy. Talk to providers to find plans that cover the surrogate’s care. Good insurance can save on medical costs.
5. Plan and budget carefully: Make a detailed budget for all costs. This helps you find ways to save money and plan better.
6. Seek financial assistance and support: Look for grants or scholarships for surrogacy. You can also try crowdfunding or fundraising to cover some costs.

Why Does Surrogacy Cost So Much?

Surrogacy costs a lot because it involves many steps and people. It includes medical treatments, legal help, paying the surrogate, and agency work. Plus, there’s a lot of prenatal care and birthing costs.

1. Medical Procedures like ART, Screening, and Testing

The high cost of surrogacy in the USA is mainly due to the medical procedures. Treatments like IVF and medications are needed for a successful pregnancy. These treatments have their own costs, including meds, tests, and monitoring.

Surrogates also go through tests to make sure they’re healthy. These tests are important for finding any health issues that could affect the pregnancy. The costs of these medical steps add up a lot.

2. Legal and Agency Fees

Surrogacy needs legal agreements to protect everyone involved. Lawyers charge for making and finalizing these contracts. This ensures everyone’s rights are protected legally.

3. Compensation for Surrogates

Surrogates deserve pay for carrying the child. This pay includes a base fee and extra costs like maternity clothes and travel. The total pay covers their expenses and lost wages.

International Surrogacy Options Worldwide

Surrogacy costs vary by location and medical costs. Each case is different.

While other countries offer surrogacy at a lower cost, it can be hard to find a trustworthy partner. There are challenges with international surrogacy.

Here are some countries where we help our intended parents with surrogacy.

International Surrogacy Cost in 2024

International surrogacy cost with affordable Options that you might consider if you cannot afford high cost of surrogacy in the US.

International surrogacy offers a range of options for intended parents seeking to build their families across borders. Costs can vary widely depending on the country, legal environment, and services required. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular and affordable international surrogacy destinations:

1. Ukraine

• Cost: $30,000 – $50,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is legal and well-regulated in Ukraine. Contracts are enforceable, and intended parents are recognized as the legal parents from birth.
• Key Advantages:
  • Strong legal protections for intended parents
  • High-quality medical care
  • Established surrogacy agencies and clinics

2. Georgia

• Cost: $35,000 – $60,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is legal and accessible to married heterosexual couples. The intended parents are recognized as the legal parents at birth.
• Key Advantages:
  • Affordable costs compared to other countries
  • Streamlined legal process
  • Experienced surrogacy providers

3. Mexico

• Cost: $40,000 – $70,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy laws vary by state in Mexico. In states where it is legal, intended parents can obtain legal parentage relatively smoothly.
• Key Advantages:
  • Proximity to the United States, reducing travel costs
  • Lower overall costs compared to other countries
  • Availability of surrogacy services for same-sex couples and singles

4. Colombia

• Cost: $45,000 – $65,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is legal and available to all types of families. The process includes a legal framework that recognizes the intended parents as the legal parents.
• Key Advantages:
  • Affordable and comprehensive surrogacy programs
  • Progressive laws accommodating diverse family structures
  • High-quality medical care

5. Greece

• Cost: $60,000 – $80,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is legal and regulated in Greece for married heterosexual couples and single women. Court approval is required before embryo transfer.
• Key Advantages:
  • Secure legal process
  • High standards of healthcare
  • Well-established surrogacy infrastructure

6. India

• Cost: $40,000 – $65,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is now restricted to domestic couples only, and international surrogacy is not allowed for foreigners. However, this was previously a popular destination.
• Key Advantages (Previously):
  • Low cost
  • Availability of experienced surrogates
  • Comprehensive surrogacy services

7. Cyprus

• Cost: $50,000 – $70,000
• Legal Framework: Surrogacy is legal but not extensively regulated. This makes it an option for heterosexual couples, but with some legal uncertainties.
• Key Advantages:
  • Competitive costs
  • Favorable geographical location
  • Availability of high-quality medical services

Table: Comparative Costs of International Surrogacy

Country	Estimated Cost Range	Legal Framework	Eligibility
Ukraine	$30,000 – $50,000	Legal, Enforceable Contracts	Heterosexual couples
Georgia	$35,000 – $60,000	Legal, Enforceable Contracts	Married heterosexual couples
Mexico	$40,000 – $70,000	Varies by state, generally favorable	All family types (in certain states)
Colombia	$45,000 – $65,000	Legal, Favorable	All family types
Greece	$60,000 – $80,000	Legal, Requires Court Approval	Married heterosexual couples, Single women
India	$40,000 – $65,000	Restricted, Previously Popular	Domestic couples only (as of recent laws)
Cyprus	$50,000 – $70,000	Legal, Less Regulated	Heterosexual couples

 

More Resources to Read:

Cost of Surrogacy in USA: What to Expect

Who Can Become Surrogate Mother: Requirements And Info

Surrogate Mother Cost for Twins: What to Expect

Average Cost for Surrogacy: Detailed Breakdown

Conclusion

International surrogacy provides various affordable options for intended parents, depending on their preferences and legal considerations. Countries like Ukraine, Georgia, and Mexico offer well-established surrogacy services at a lower cost compared to the United States and other Western nations. By carefully selecting a destination based on cost, legal frameworks, and personal circumstances, intended parents can find the right surrogacy program to fulfill their dreams of starting or expanding their families.

If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at  Ukraine Surrogacy Agency. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.

Our team has over 14 years of experience facilitating surrogacy arrangements, egg donation, and serving as an advocacy resource for infertile couples and LGBTQ individuals seeking to build families.

Get in touch for FREE SURROGACY CONSULTING:

Mobile: +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)

Email: neelam@ivfconceptions.com

 

 

FAQ For cost of surrogacy 

How much does surrogacy cost?

Surrogacy in the USA costs between $130,000 and $150,000. Eastern European countries like Ukraine and Georgia offer lower costs, from $40,000 to $60,000.

How much does surrogacy cost for gay couples?

For gay couples, the cost is between $65,000 and $70,000. This is for all-inclusive guaranteed baby plans in Colombia and Mexico.

What countries offer low-cost yet legal surrogacy?

Georgia and Ukraine are legal and affordable for married couples. For gay and single-male surrogacy, Mexico and Colombia are the best options.

Is surrogacy covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for surrogacy varies by plan. It’s important to review your policy. Talk to your insurance provider to see what’s covered.

What are hidden costs and unforeseen surrogacy expenses

Even with planning, unexpected costs can happen. Be ready for extra expenses like medical issues, legal fees, or support needs.