Surrogacy for U.S. Citizens Living Abroad

Surrogacy in the U.S. while living abroad is not only possible, but can be a great way to fulfill your dreams of having a family. Many international intended parents choose to work with U.S. surrogacy agencies due to the country’s favorable legal protections, ethical practices and well-established surrogacy laws.

Ready to explore U.S.-based surrogacy opportunities? Connect with a professional today.

Before you begin this journey, it’s important to research and understand the specific requirements both in the U.S. and in your home country. We’ll cover some of your biggest questions below.

Why Do Intended Parents Choose Surrogacy?

Intended parents choose surrogacy for various reasons, often when other methods of family building—such as IVF or natural conception—are not possible. Surrogacy gives couples the opportunity to have a biological child, even if they cannot carry the pregnancy themselves.

Some reasons for choosing surrogacy include:

• Medical conditions that prevent carrying a pregnancy.
• Same-sex couples seeking to have a genetically related child.
• Failed IVF cycles or recurrent pregnancy loss.
• And more.

International intended parents may turn to U.S. surrogacy agencies because of the country’s unmatched legal guidelines for both surrogates and intended parents, as well as high standards for medical care and surrogate screening.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in the U.S.?

Surrogacy in the U.S. typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on factors such as the surrogacy agency, legal fees, medical costs and surrogate compensation. While this may seem high, U.S. surrogacy agencies offer comprehensive services, including extensive surrogate pre-screening, legal protections and financial safeguards.

These services help ensure a smoother and safer surrogacy process for everyone involved. Also, U.S. agencies often provide clear fee structures, allowing you to manage your budget with greater security.

U.S. Agencies vs. Identified Surrogacy

For international intended parents, working with an agency is often the most efficient and secure option. U.S. surrogacy agencies pre-screen surrogates and ensure they meet thorough medical, psychological and legal requirements. Additionally, agencies provide legal support and guidance throughout the process, which is crucial for international clients unfamiliar with U.S. laws.

While identified surrogacy—where you find a surrogate on your own—may seem like a better option, it comes with risks, particularly for international intended parents. Without agency support, you might face additional legal challenges, un-vetted surrogates and an absence of financial protections. International surrogacy is complex and you want to make sure that you have the support from a professional who’s well versed in both international and U.S. surrogacy laws.

Navigating International Surrogacy Laws

One of the biggest concerns for international intended parents is how their home country’s laws may interact with U.S. surrogacy regulations. Each country approaches surrogacy differently, and some may bar the practice entirely, while others may have restrictions on contracts or even citizenship rights for children born via surrogacy.

The U.S. offers a wide range of surrogacy-friendly states, making it an option for U.S. citizens from countries with less accommodating laws. Working closely with both a U.S.-based agency and legal professionals familiar with your country’s surrogacy and immigration laws ensures that your surrogacy journey is as smooth as possible, both legally and logistically.

Benefits of Working with a U.S. Agency

Working with a U.S. agency as an international intended parent offers several key benefits:

• Legal protections: The U.S. has clear laws supporting surrogacy, especially in surrogacy-friendly states, offering legal safeguards for both parties.
• Experienced surrogates: U.S. agencies typically work with surrogates who have undergone comprehensive screening and medical evaluations.
• Financial transparency: Many U.S. agencies offer fixed-price programs or financial protections to help you budget for the surrogacy process.

U.S. agencies like American Surrogacy offer experienced guidance, including helping international intended parents navigate immigration laws, manage the logistics of travel and ensure that all medical and legal documentation is handled efficiently.

Disadvantages of Working With a U.S. Agency

Although there are many benefits to working with a U.S. based surrogacy agency, there are some minor drawbacks to consider:

• Cost: Surrogacy in the U.S. is one of the most expensive options globally due to the high cost of medical care and surrogate compensation.
• Travel requirements: International IPs will need to travel to the U.S. for various milestones, such as embryo transfer, surrogate checkups and the baby’s birth.
• Time zone and communication barriers: Managing surrogacy across different time zones and cultures can be challenging, particularly when it comes to staying in touch with your surrogate and the agency.

FAQs About International Surrogacy

What is the Cost of Surrogacy as an International Intended Parent?

The cost of surrogacy in the U.S. can range from $169,900 to $179,000 or more, depending on factors such as surrogate compensation, agency fees, legal costs and medical expenses. International intended parents will also need to budget for travel and accommodations.

Where Can I Find a Surrogate as an International Intended Parent?

U.S. agencies often have a well-established process for matching intended parents with surrogates, but availability can be limited, and wait times vary. Some agencies strive to keep wait times as short as possible by marketing to and screening a diverse pool of surrogates.

What Are the Requirements for International Intended Parents?

Each agency may have different requirements for international intended parents, but generally, you’ll need to provide proof of financial stability, undergo background checks and work closely with legal professionals to make sure you’re compliant with both U.S. and international laws.

Your Next Steps

Surrogacy in the U.S. is not only possible for international intended parents but can offer a secure, well-regulated path to parenthood. With the right agency and legal team by your side, you can navigate international surrogacy with confidence.

Whether you’re concerned about legal hurdles, finding the right surrogate, or managing costs, U.S. surrogacy agencies can offer the support and guidance you need.

Contact a surrogacy professional today to learn more about starting your surrogacy journey.