From Dreams to Delivery: International Surrogacy Explained

What You Need to Know About Surrogacy Abroad

Are you dreaming of the happy pitter-patter of tiny feet in your home? If the path to parenthood has presented challenges, you might be exploring different avenues to build your family.

International surrogacy offers a hopeful option many parents turn to.

We’re here to provide clarity and support as you consider this path. Our quick guide will discuss legal, medical, and practical matters to consider.

What is International Surrogacy?

International surrogacy means you work with a clinic or agency in another country. People often choose this route because:

• Of different laws,

• It’s easier to find a surrogate, or

• It costs less than in their country.

Many couples from all over the world consider surrogacy abroad to help them have their dream family.

A Step-by-Step Guide to International Surrogacy

Step 1: Research Your Options

First, you need to learn about international surrogacy and decide if it is right for you. Find out about different countries that offer surrogacy and explore their laws about families and children.

It can be invaluable to speak with surrogacy agencies. They can give you advice that fits your situation and explain how their surrogacy programs work.

Step 2: Legal Considerations

Surrogacy legislation is a critical factor.

You should understand the laws in both the country where the surrogacy takes place and your home country. In Georgia, for example, the law recognises intended parents from conception. This offers you legal security.

You will need legal help to create a surrogacy agreement. This agreement protects all parties involved and clearly explains everyone’s duties. 

Step 3: Choose a Surrogacy Agency

A good surrogacy agency acts as a guide. They help match you to a surrogate, manage legal documents, and coordinate medical procedures.

Even better is finding a support team that combines both agency and clinic services.

Clinics like European Fertility Clinic (EFC) offer exactly that—the best of both worlds.

Aspiring parents choose EFC because we offer IVF, egg and sperm donation, surrogacy, and advanced genetic testing in one place. 

We also provide comprehensive support that includes guidance on Georgian surrogacy laws, preparation and review of legal contracts, and assistance with parental rights documentation.  

Beyond medical and legal care, our team also manages all travel logistics—booking flights, arranging accommodations, coordinating airport transfers, and offering helpful local recommendations to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Plus, our internationally trained specialists speak multiple languages and truly understand the emotional and logistical challenges that international patients face. 

When selecting a surrogacy agency and/or clinic, look for experience working with international parents, proven success rates, positive patient reviews, and transparent processes.

Step 4: Find a Surrogate Mother

Surrogate agencies will provide profiles of potential surrogates. You can review their medical and personal histories. Some agencies arrange meetings or video calls. This enables you to connect with the surrogate. The goal is to find a surrogate who is a good match for you.

Communication is essential during the pregnancy. Agencies often help with this. They give you updates on the surrogate’s health and the baby’s development.

Step 5: Medical Procedures

Usually, surrogacy involves a medical process called In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). This is when medical personnel join the egg and sperm together in a lab. The resulting embryos (fertilised eggs) are then transferred to the surrogate.

Some couples use their own eggs and sperm. Others use donor eggs or sperm. You may also use Preimplantation Genetic Testing/Diagnosis (PGT/PGD) to test the embryos. This helps ensure the embryos are healthy.

You might need to travel to the clinic for some of this, especially if you are using your eggs and/or sperm.

Step 6: Pregnancy, Birth, and Post-Birth

While the surrogate is pregnant, she will have regular check-ups. The clinic will keep you informed of her and your baby’s progress.  When it’s near your baby’s arrival, you must travel to the country where your baby will be born so you can be there.

After the birth, you’ll get a birth certificate. This document lists you as the legal parents. You also need to get a passport and other travel documents for your baby. Check with your embassy, as the requirements for these documents vary by country.

Obtaining all the required documents can take time, so be prepared for a potentially extended stay abroad.

Step 7: Going Home

The final step is returning home with your baby and embracing your dream family.

However, you must remember that different countries have different legal requirements for surrogacy. In some countries, you have to legally adopt your surrogate baby, even if your name is on the birth certificate.

So, be sure to get legal advice in your home country before starting the process.

Why Choose European Fertility Clinic?

At European Fertility Clinic, we’ve helped many people around the world build their families through our international surrogacy programs. Our expert team guides you through each step by providing advanced medical care and legal clarity.

We focus on your needs and are here to help you achieve your family goals. If you are considering international surrogacy, contact us today!

We can answer all your questions and more.

Begin Your Family’s Story with Us

Disclaimer: The European Fertility Clinic is here to guide you with trusted insights on your road to parenthood. The information in this blog is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Remember, every fertility journey is unique. Our expert team is ready to tailor solutions to your needs. For specific guidance, please contact us. 

Your family starts with the right care; let us help you take the next step.