Surrogacy in Greece

Greece has emerged as a beacon of hope for many aspiring parents, offering a unique blend of legal clarity, medical excellence, and cultural richness in the realm of surrogacy. As we delve into the intricacies of surrogacy in Greece, this comprehensive guide will illuminate the path for those considering this life-changing journey.

Get in touch for FREE SURROGACY CONSULTING:

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

Email: neelam@ivfconceptions.com

Surrogacy in Greece is not just a medical procedure; it’s a carefully regulated process that balances the needs of intended parents, surrogates, and the children born through this arrangement. With its legal framework rooted in altruism and its world-class medical facilities, Greece has positioned itself as a leading destination for international surrogacy.

 

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

 

Key Takeaways for Surrogacy in Greece

Before we dive deeper, let’s highlight the essential points about surrogacy in Greece:

• Surrogacy is legal and altruistic in Greece
• Eligible parties include heterosexual couples (married or unmarried) and single women with fertility issues
• LGBT couples and single men are currently not eligible
• Court approval is mandatory before embryo transfer
• The legal framework is governed by the Greek Civil Code and Assisted Reproduction Act
• Commercial surrogacy is prohibited, but reasonable expenses are covered
• Average cost ranges from €75,000 to €90,000 ($80,000 to $96,000)
• Greece offers high-quality medical services and a favorable legal climate for international intended parents

Legal Framework of Surrogacy in Greece

Overview of Greek Surrogacy Laws

Surrogacy in Greece is regulated by a comprehensive legal framework that prioritizes the well-being of all parties involved. The cornerstone of this framework is the Greek Civil Code and the Assisted Reproduction Act, which were amended in 2002 and 2005 to explicitly allow and regulate surrogacy.

Key aspects of the legal framework include:

1. Altruistic Nature: Only altruistic surrogacy is permitted, prohibiting commercial arrangements.
2. Court Approval: A court order is required before the embryo transfer can take place.
3. Gestational Surrogacy: Only gestational surrogacy is allowed, where the surrogate is not genetically related to the child.
4. Compensation Limits: While commercial surrogacy is prohibited, surrogates can be compensated for reasonable expenses, including medical costs, lost wages, and unpaid leave during pregnancy.

Eligibility Criteria for Intended Parents

Greece has specific eligibility criteria for intended parents:

Criteria	Details
Relationship Status	Heterosexual couples (married or unmarried) and single women
Age Limit	Female intended parent must be under 50 years old
Medical Requirement	Proof of inability to conceive or carry a child
Citizenship	No Greek citizenship required (since July 2014)
LGBT Couples	Not currently eligible
Single Men	Not currently eligible

Legal Process and Court Approval

The legal process for surrogacy in Greece involves several key steps:

• Documentation: Intended parents must gather necessary documents, including medical certificates, birth certificates, and marital status proof.
• Legal Representation: Engage a Greek lawyer specializing in surrogacy law.
• Court Application: Submit an application to the court for surrogacy approval.
• Hearing: A court hearing is held to review the application and supporting documents.
• Court Decision: If approved, the court issues a decision allowing the surrogacy to proceed.
• Pre-Birth Order: The court decision acts as a pre-birth order, establishing the intended parents’ legal rights.

The court process typically takes 3-4 months, and in many cases, the intended parents are not required to be present for the hearing.

Medical Aspects of Surrogacy in Greece

• IVF Process and Success Rates

Greece boasts some of Europe’s leading fertility clinics, offering state-of-the-art IVF treatments. The surrogacy process typically involves the following medical steps:

• Ovarian Stimulation: For the intended mother or egg donor
• Egg Retrieval: Collection of mature eggs
• Fertilization: Creation of embryos using IVF or ICSI techniques
• Embryo Culture: Monitoring embryo development
• Embryo Transfer: Placing the embryo in the surrogate’s uterus

Success rates for surrogacy in Greece are impressive, with many clinics reporting pregnancy rates of 60-70% per embryo transfer for surrogacy cycles.

• Surrogate and Egg Donor Screening

Rigorous screening processes are in place to ensure the health and suitability of surrogates and egg donors:

Screening Type	Tests Included
Medical	Physical examination, blood tests, gynecological check-up
Genetic	Karyotype analysis, genetic carrier screening
Psychological	Mental health assessment, counseling
Background	Criminal record check, lifestyle assessment

 

Healthcare Quality in Greece

Greece’s healthcare system ranks highly on the global stage. According to the World Health Organization, Greece’s healthcare system ranks 14th out of 191 countries, reflecting its commitment to high-quality medical care.

The Surrogacy Process in Greece: Step by Step

1. Initial Consultation: Meet with a surrogacy agency or clinic to discuss your options and requirements.
2. Legal Preparation: Engage a Greek lawyer to handle legal aspects and court application.
3. Surrogate Matching: The agency or clinic will help match you with a suitable surrogate.
4. Medical Screening: Both intended parents and surrogate undergo medical evaluations.
5. Court Approval: Obtain the necessary court order allowing the surrogacy to proceed.
6. IVF Treatment: Begin the medical process of creating and transferring embryos.
7. Pregnancy and Monitoring: Regular check-ups and updates throughout the pregnancy.
8. Birth and Legal Formalities: The child is born, and legal parenthood is established.
9. Return Home: Complete necessary paperwork for the child’s citizenship and travel documents.

 

Cost of Surrogacy in Greece

The cost of surrogacy in Greece is generally more affordable compared to many other Western countries, while still maintaining high standards of care. 

Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (€)
Agency Fees	15,000 – 20,000
Legal Fees	5,000 – 7,000
IVF Treatment	5,000 – 8,000
Surrogate Compensation	12,000 – 15,000
Medical Expenses	10,000 – 15,000
Miscellaneous (travel, accommodation, etc.)	5,000 – 10,000
Total Estimated Cost	75,000 – 90,000

It’s important to note that these are average estimates, and actual costs may vary based on individual circumstances and specific clinic or agency fees.

 

Benefits of Choosing Surrogacy in Greece

• Legal Clarity: Clear legal framework with pre-birth orders.
• High-Quality Healthcare: World-class medical facilities and experienced professionals.
• Cost-Effective: More affordable than many Western countries.
• No Waiting List: Shorter waiting times for surrogate matching.
• Beautiful Location: Combine your surrogacy journey with a stay in a beautiful Mediterranean country.
• Ethical Practices: Strict regulations ensure ethical treatment of surrogates.
• International Friendly: Open to international intended parents since 2014.

Challenges and Considerations

While surrogacy in Greece offers many advantages, there are some challenges to consider:

• Language Barrier: Not all professionals may speak fluent English, requiring translation services.
• Travel Requirements: Multiple trips to Greece may be necessary.
• Cultural Differences: Understanding Greek customs and medical practices.
• Legal Complexities: Navigating Greek law and home country regulations.
• Limited Eligibility: Not available for LGBT couples or single men.

Choosing a Surrogacy Agency in Greece

Selecting the right surrogacy agency is crucial for a smooth and successful journey. Here are key factors to consider:

• Experience: Look for agencies with a proven track record in international surrogacy.
• Comprehensive Services: Choose agencies offering full-service packages, including legal and medical coordination.
• Transparency: Ensure clear communication about costs, processes, and potential challenges.
• Ethical Practices: Verify the agency’s commitment to ethical treatment of surrogates.
• Support Services: Check for availability of counseling, translation, and post-birth assistance.

International Surrogacy and Greek Law

Greece has become increasingly popular for international surrogacy since opening its doors to foreign intended parents in 2014. However, it’s crucial to understand how Greek surrogacy law interacts with your home country’s regulations.

Key considerations for international intended parents:

• Citizenship: Ensure your home country will recognize the child’s parentage and grant citizenship.
• Travel Documents: Understand the process for obtaining a passport or travel documents for the child.
• Legal Recognition: Check if your home country recognizes Greek pre-birth orders.
• Apostille: Greek birth certificates may need to be apostilled for international recognition.

Future of Surrogacy in Greece

As Greece continues to establish itself as a leading destination for surrogacy, several trends and potential changes are worth noting:

• Potential Expansion of Eligibility: There’s ongoing discussion about extending surrogacy rights to LGBT couples and single men.
• Technological Advancements: Greek clinics are at the forefront of adopting new IVF technologies.
• Increased International Demand: Growing awareness may lead to longer wait times in the future.
• Regulatory Refinements: Expect ongoing updates to surrogacy laws to address emerging challenges.

 

More Resources to Read:

IVF with Egg Donation in Ukraine

Surrogacy for HIV+ Intended Parents in Ukraine

Is Surrogacy in Ukraine legal?

Affordable Surrogacy in Ukraine for Married Couples

 

Conclusion

Surrogacy in Greece offers a unique combination of legal clarity, medical excellence, and cultural richness. For many intended parents, it represents a beacon of hope on their journey to parenthood. While challenges exist, the benefits of choosing Greece for surrogacy are significant.

As you consider your options, remember that surrogacy is a complex process requiring careful thought and planning. Consult with experienced professionals, connect with others who have gone through the process, and take the time to understand all aspects of surrogacy in Greece.

With its commitment to ethical practices, high-quality healthcare, and a supportive legal framework, Greece continues to pave the way for positive surrogacy experiences. For many, the dream of building a family becomes a beautiful reality on the shores of this ancient land.

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

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Surrogacy in Greece

1. Is surrogacy legal in Greece?

Yes, surrogacy is legal in Greece. It is regulated by the Greek Civil Code and the Assisted Reproduction Act, which allow for altruistic surrogacy arrangements.

2. Who is eligible for surrogacy in Greece?

Surrogacy in Greece is available to:

• Heterosexual couples (married or unmarried)
• Single women Both must have medical proof of inability to carry a pregnancy.

3. Can same-sex couples or single men pursue surrogacy in Greece?

Currently, Greek law does not allow same-sex couples or single men to pursue surrogacy. Only heterosexual couples and single women are eligible.

4. How much does surrogacy cost in Greece?

The average cost of surrogacy in Greece ranges from €75,000 to €90,000 ($80,000 to $96,000). This includes medical expenses, legal fees, surrogate compensation, and agency fees.

5. Is commercial surrogacy allowed in Greece?

No, commercial surrogacy is not legal in Greece. Only altruistic surrogacy is permitted, but surrogates can be compensated for reasonable expenses related to the pregnancy.

6. Do I need to be a Greek citizen to pursue surrogacy in Greece?

No, Greek citizenship is not required. Since July 2014, international intended parents have been able to pursue surrogacy in Greece.

7. How long does the surrogacy process take in Greece?

The entire process, from initial consultation to birth, typically takes 18-24 months. This includes 3-4 months for legal procedures and court approval.

8. What is the success rate of surrogacy in Greece?

Success rates vary by clinic, but many report pregnancy rates of 60-70% per embryo transfer for surrogacy cycles.

9. How are surrogates screened in Greece?

Surrogates undergo comprehensive screening, including medical examinations, genetic testing, psychological evaluations, and background checks.

10. Can I choose my own surrogate in Greece?

Generally, surrogacy agencies or clinics in Greece match intended parents with suitable surrogates based on various factors. Direct selection by intended parents is not common practice.

11. Is egg donation anonymous in Greece?

Yes, egg donation in Greece is anonymous by law. Intended parents cannot choose specific donors but can specify desired characteristics.

12. What legal documents will I need for surrogacy in Greece?

Key documents include:

• Medical certificates proving inability to carry a pregnancy
• Birth certificates of intended parents
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Passports or ID cards
• Surrogacy agreement

13. Do I need to be present in Greece throughout the surrogacy process?

No, you don’t need to be present throughout the entire process. However, you will need to make several trips to Greece for initial consultations, legal procedures, and the birth.

14. How is parentage established in Greek surrogacy arrangements?

Greek law provides for a pre-birth court order that establishes the intended parents as the legal parents of the child born through surrogacy.

15. What are the age limits for intended parents in Greek surrogacy?

The intended mother (or single woman) must be under 50 years old at the time of submitting the court application for surrogacy approval.

16. Can I use my own eggs/sperm in surrogacy in Greece?

Yes, intended parents can use their own gametes if medically viable. If needed, donor eggs or sperm can also be used.

17. How long do I need to stay in Greece after the birth?

Typically, intended parents need to stay in Greece for 2-3 weeks after the birth to complete necessary paperwork and obtain travel documents for the baby.

18. Will my child be eligible for Greek citizenship?

Children born through surrogacy in Greece to non-Greek intended parents are not automatically granted Greek citizenship. Citizenship is typically determined by the parents’ nationality.

19. How do I choose a surrogacy agency or clinic in Greece?

Look for agencies/clinics with:

• Extensive experience in international surrogacy
• Comprehensive services (medical, legal, logistical)
• Positive reviews and testimonials
• Clear communication and transparency
• Ethical practices and surrogate support

20. What support is available for international intended parents?

Many Greek surrogacy agencies offer comprehensive support, including:

• Translation services
• Travel and accommodation assistance
• Legal guidance for both Greek and home country procedures
• Coordination with Greek medical professionals
• Emotional support and counseling