The Surrogacy Guide
The United States is the “gold standard” destination for surrogacy, but the average cost ranges from $140,000 to $180,000. International surrogacy costs as little as $50,000 in Eastern Europe or South America, and even less in Africa. But finding a reliable agency requires some research and guidance.
Updated for 2025 by William Houghton
Surrogacy offers a viable path for individuals and couples looking to build a family. But the cost can be high. The average cost of surrogacy can be as little as $50,000 is some developing countries, to over $200,000 at some major US surrogacy agencies.
Understanding the cost of surrogacy is crucial before embarking on this journey. Surrogacy involves significant financial commitments, with expenses varying widely based on several factors. Reviewing these costs helps prospective parents plan effectively and avoid unexpected financial strains.
By understanding these components, prospective parents can better grasp how much it truly costs to embark on a surrogacy journey. This knowledge helps in making informed decisions tailored to personal circumstances and financial capacity.
International surrogacy costs can vary significantly depending on the region, offering dramatic savings compared to options in the United States. For families considering surrogacy abroad, it’s essential to compare costs and weigh the benefits against potential challenges.
Below is a table of the total surrogacy costs at the most popular surrogacy destinations worldwide.
Country | Surrogacy Cost | Legality | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
USA | $150,000 to $180,000 | Legislation | Low |
Greece | $85,000 to $100,000 | Legislation | Low |
Canada | $75,000 to $90,000 | Legislation | Low |
Mexico | $75,000 to $110,000 | High Court Ruling | Low |
Colombia | $65,000 to $80,000 | High Court Ruling | Low |
Thailand | $65,000 to $90,000 | Restricted | Hi |
Argentina | $60,000 to $80,000 | TBD | TBD |
Cyprus | $60,000 to $70,000 | Unregulated | Hi |
Ukraine | $50,000 to $65,000 | Legislation | Low |
Georgia | $50,000 to $65,000 | Legislation | Low |
Kenya | $35,000 to $45,000 | Unregulated | Hi |
Nigeria | $30,000 to $40,00 | Unregulated | Hi |
Iran | $16,000 to $20,000 | Other | Medium |
Surrogacy Costs in the United States: The US continues to be the gold standard for surrogacy. However, it’s also the most expensive destination worldwide. Including an IVF cycle to conceive embryos, the cost of surrogacy in the US ranges from $150,000 to $180,000. Costs are high because of the high cos of medical services, lack of national medical care, and the overall cost of living for US surrogates.
Surrogacy Costs in Mexico: Mexico is a hub for medical tourism, especially for Americans. Surrogacy services are available and legally regulated in several Mexican states following a 2021 Supreme Court ruling. Surrogacy in Mexico ranges from $75,000 for a program using your own embryos, to $110,000 for a “guaranteed birth” program with an IVF cycle and local egg donor.
Surrogacy Costs in Canada: Canada offers a legally supportive environment with costs ranging approximately from $75,000 to $90,000. The cost is low because Canada doesn’t allow payments to surrogates other then her personal expenses (which is why it often takes years to find qualified surrogates in Canada). If you can find a surrogate in Canada, surrogacy costs are cheaper than the U.S., and healthcare quality remains excellent.
Surrogacy Costs in Colombia: Colombia has emerged in recent years as an international surrogacy hub, especially for same-sex couples. Cost of surrogacy in Colombia ranges from $60,000 to $75,000 USD. Surrogacy in Colombia is buoyed by the supportive legal framework and excellent healthcare system (including universal, comprehensive health insurance).
Surrogacy Costs in Argentina: Argentina has been a popular surrogacy destination in the region, but is now reviewing the legal and political support for the practice. Surrogacy in Argentina may return in May 2025, but it’s not certain what regulations may be imposed by local officials. Surrogacy costs may fall between $60,000 and $80,000. The lower cost of living translates into more affordable surrogate compensation and medical expenses.
Surrogacy Costs in Ukraine: Ukraine has traditionally been the go-to destination for affordable surrogacy programs. Surrogacy costs in Ukraine typically range from $50,000 to $65,000. The legal framework is very supportive, and intended parents are considered the legal parents from the moment of conception. As such, IPs are named on the birth certificate without the need for a judicial hearing. Surrogacy in Ukraine is only legally accessible to marred, heterosexual couples with a diagnosis of infertility.
Surrogacy Costs in Georgia: Georgia has a very similar legal framework to Ukraine, with similar costs and restrictions. The country became a regional alterative when the Ukraine war started in 2022. Since then, the local authorities have voiced concerns about the sudden expansion of surrogacy services in Georgia. The Georgian government drafted a law to prohibit surrogacy for foreigners in 2024, but it has not yet been adopted (as of April 2025)
Surrogacy Costs in Greece: The surrogacy costs in Greece range from $85,000 to $100,000 on average. Greece allows “altruistic surrogacy” only. But unlike Canada and the UK, “altruistic” means that surrogate can receive reasonable compensation (around $12,000), but not enough to be exploitive. Local regulations explicitly support surrogacy for heterosexual couples and single women. Unfortunately, LGBT couples and single men are banned from Greece’s surrogacy programs.
Surrogacy Costs in Cyprus: There is no legal framework for surrogacy in Cyprus, so any agreement with your surrogate is not legally enforceable. Nevertheless, surrogacy in Cyprus has become a popular option for European couples due to its location and relatively low cost. A typical budget ranges from $60,000 to $70,000. But unregulated surrogacy poses serious risks. Surrogacy contracts between intended couples and surrogate mothers are not much more than a handshake, and there is no legal certainty that surrogacy will be tolerated by local authorities from one day to the next.
Surrogacy Costs in Thailand. Thailand permits surrogacy only for legally married couples, where the intended mother is unable to carry a pregnancy herself. The surrogate must be a relative of the intended parents, and no financial compensation beyond necessary expenses is allowed.
Thailand does not currently allow surrogacy for foreigners, gay couples, or single intended parents within its borders. For local Thai citizens, the cost of surrogacy is $65,000 – $90,000 USD.
Surrogacy Costs in Iran (and other Islamic states): Among Islamic countries there is no explicit legal regulation under the civil law. But commercial surrogacy arrangements are carried out with the permission of religious (Shia) authorities. Among the most popular destination, surrogacy is legal in Iran for foreign couples as well as Iranian couples. The cost of surrogacy in Iran is among the lowest worldwide, at $16,000 to $20,000.
Some African countries like Kenya or Nigeria offer surrogacy services at low rates. In these nations, commercial surrogacy is not explicitly banned, but there is no regulation to provide legal safety nets to uphold ethical standards or protect surrogates. The absence of legislation makes parents and surrogates vulnerable to poor medical care, lack of surrogate oversight and support, and other abuses. Due diligence is necessary due to navigate the varied legal regulations and healthcare standards within different countries.
Many African countries are extremely anti-LGBT (including prison time for public homosexuality), so same-sex couples must present themselves as being single, straight individuals.
Surrogacy Costs in Kenya: Kenya has been the most popular destination for surrogacy in Africa. There are no strict surrogacy laws in Kenya, and being a developing country, it offers reasonably cheap surrogacy treatment. The total expense of surrogacy in Kenya ranges from $35,000 to $45,000.
Surrogacy Costs in Nigeria: Nigeria continues to be one of the lowest-cost destinations for surrogacy worldwide. A surrogacy program runs about $30,000 to $40,000 USD.
Price is the biggest reason why international surrogacy destinations have become so popular, but there are other reasons why some countries are more popular than others.
International surrogacy programs vary in how they handle legal and bureaucratic processes. You can limit the risks by choosing countries with solid legal frameworks that define and support surrogacy.
Choosing an international surrogacy destination requires carefully balancing the financial implications, logistical challenges and legal risks. With some research, you can find highly reliable and secure destinations that are also affordable.
Embarking on a surrogacy journey requires meticulous financial planning. Understanding the components and stages of surrogacy expenses is crucial to manage the cost of surrogacy effectively. Here’s a guide to help create a comprehensive budget:
The agency fee covers the cost of finding and clearing your surrogate. It also covers the agency’s prenatal care and oversight throughout the pregnancy. This fee is often required upfront, before you start your journey. Some agencies will defer this fee until you are matched with a surrogate.
USA: $25,000 – $35,000, |
|---|
International: $5,000 to $10,000 |
`Legal services are divided into parts. The first service is drafting the contract, and the second is establishing the baby’s legal parentage in the local courts.
USA: $8,000 – $10,000, |
|---|
International: $5,000 to $10,000 |
USA: $60,000 to $80,000 |
|---|
International: $15,000 to $20,000 |
USA: $10,000 – $15,000+. |
|---|
International: $3,000 to $8,000 (if needed) |
ObamaCare insurance policies are the most affordable insurance options in the US. But if you hire your surrogate outside of Open Enrollment (November through January), the cost could be $10,000+ higher.
USA: $25,000 – $35,000, |
|---|
International: $5,000 to $10,000 |
$5,000 – $10,000 |
|---|
Some countries have legal requirements that you must complete after you return home with the baby. For example, the Parental Order in the UK, or adoption processes in France or Germany, are part of the legal framework for surrogacy in those countries.
$3,000 – $5,000 |
|---|
Budgeting accurately ensures that intended parents remain financially prepared throughout their surrogacy journey. Preparing diligently helps alleviate stress and allows focus on the emotional aspects of welcoming a new family member.
Surrogacy is a complex journey with many factors to consider, especially when it involves twins pregnancies. This path might seem appealing as a cost-effective way to grow a family, but it brings unique financial implications and risks.
Surrogate Compensation: Many surrogates require increased compensation for carrying twins due to the added physical demands and medical risks.
Navigating surrogacy can involve various non-standard expenses that may not be immediately apparent. It’s important to prepare for these potential unexpected costs:
These factors underscore the importance of thorough financial planning. Understanding surrogacy costs worldwide helps prospective parents anticipate these variables and make informed decisions. As every journey is unique, being prepared for both standard and non-standard expenses ensures a smoother path forward.
Choosing independent surrogacy options can be a strategic move for intended parents looking to manage expenses while maintaining control over the surrogacy process.
Opting for an independent surrogacy journey offers both financial benefits and unique challenges. With proper planning and support from professionals when needed, this path can be a viable option for many families.
Resource Intensiveness: While resources are available, managing tasks usually handled by agencies demands significant research and planning.
Choosing surrogacy as a path to parenthood involves significant financial commitment and emotional readiness. Balancing these aspects is crucial for a successful journey.
Understanding the overall cost considerations in surrogacy is essential. With expenses ranging from surrogate compensation to legal fees, planning your budget meticulously can alleviate stress and ensure that unexpected costs don’t derail your plans.
While financial planning is vital, ensuring that you and your partner are emotionally prepared for the journey’s challenges is equally important. Surrogacy isn’t just a financial transaction; it’s an emotional investment in building your family.
Consider all elements, such as the cost of surrogacy, potential medical risks, and the emotional ups and downs. A detailed plan helps manage expectations and prepares you for any eventualities.
Balancing finances with readiness creates a foundation for making informed decisions. By approaching surrogacy with both heart and mind, you can navigate this complex process with greater confidence and anticipation for the joy of parenthood.
Surrogacy costs range from $120,000 to $180,000 in the U.S. International surrogacy starts at $50,000 in Eastern Europe or South America, up to $80,000 in Mexico or Canada. Visit the Surrogacy Cost Guide for a comparison of worldwide prices.
International surrogacy programs can cut the cost of surrogacy by half. There are several legally secure and well-tested surrogacy destinations, but not all countries are legally equal.
In the U.S., Independent Surrogacy can reduce costs by $10,000 to $30,000 or more. An “Indy” journey eliminates expensive agency fees and give basic tasks directly to the Intended Parents.
Details on these lower-cost options are available at SENSIBLE’s Surrogacy Cost Guide.
Surrogacy programs overseas are secure, successful and very popular. The cost of international surrogacy is about half the cost of a U.S. program — plus they often come with ‘guarantees’ of a successful birth. But not all countries have equally supportive laws or success rates. Surrogacy is secure and reliable for married couples in Ukraine, Greece and other Eastern European countries. Same-sex couples have excellent options in Colombia or Mexico. SENSIBLE’s Surrogacy Guide has a safety rating of all popular international surrogacy destinations.
No. Medical insurance will not cover payments to a surrogate or agency, but it should pay for the prenatal care and delivery. A handful of U.S. states require insurance companies to cover fertility treatments, but most do not include basic IVF procedures. Check out SENSIBLE’s Surrogacy Cost Guide for details on finding affordable insurance for your surrogate.
In general, only 1 in 10 potential surrogates have insurance that includes maternity care. For those with insurance, most policies have co-payments and deductibles of $5,000 or more. Read more about insurance for your Surrogate in SENSIBLE’s Surrogacy Cost Guide.
Bill Houghton is the founder of Sensible Surrogacy, author of the Sensible Surrogacy Guide, 2x surrogacy dad, and a dedicated advocate for secure, legal and ethical Gestational Surrogacy. Read Bill's Biography
Bill Houghton is the founder of Sensible Surrogacy, author of the Sensible Surrogacy Guide, 2x surrogacy dad, and a dedicated advocate for secure, legal and ethical Gestational Surrogacy. Read Bill's Biography
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PLEASE NOTE: Information on this website is based on personal experience gained over many years of assisting infertile couples. My comments are intended as a Guide for those in need, but should not be mistaken for professional medical advise. Any medical questions should ALWAYS be referred to a credentialed medical specialist before beginning any treatment. Sensible Surrogacy or Exceptional Stork accepts no liability for medical procedures undertaken without the consult of an accredited clinic or physician.
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