In recent years, surrogacy has become increasingly popular among those hoping to have a child. For European prospective parents, however, their country’s strict laws or explicit restrictions on surrogacy may make this avenue to becoming a parent difficult to navigate or even impossible.
This has led many to look across the Atlantic to the US, where surrogacy is not only legal but legally protected, with established professional support services and advanced reproductive technology that may not be available to prospective parents in Europe.
While you may be familiar with the concept of surrogacy, there are probably many things you haven’t considered about pursuing parenthood via surrogacy in the U.S. as a European intended parent.
We turned to the team at Fairfax Surrogacy to help us learn more..
The Legalities of Surrogacy
Surrogacy laws differ greatly across Europe. Some countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain prohibit commercial surrogacy arrangements. Others, like France, Italy, and Switzerland ban all forms of surrogacy entirely. Even in countries that permit some types of surrogacy, the laws can be complex and create difficult challenges for intended parents. For example, in the UK, while altruistic surrogacy is allowed, surrogacy contracts are not legally enforceable, creating uncertainty for everyone involved.
In the United States, many states have surrogacy-friendly laws that protect intended parents and surrogates alike. States like California, Connecticut, and Nevada, and others have passed laws that make gestational surrogacy contracts enforceable and include clear methods for how to establish parentage. These well-defined and supportive laws eliminate many of the risks and ethical concerns often associated with surrogacy arrangements overseas.
Flexible and comprehensive reproductive options
Surrogacy in the United States not only offers a more secure legal environment but also a wide array of options that allow intended parents to find the right fit for their needs and preferences. Gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate is not genetically related to the child, is widely available and supported by medical professionals. There are also many attorneys well-versed in the legal process.
United States surrogacy agencies also offer comprehensive matching processes that enable intended parents to choose their level of involvement and connection with the surrogate throughout the journey. Some intended parents prefer a closer relationship and higher degree of communication, while others prefer a bit more distance and discretion during the pregnancy.
Working with a U.S. fertility clinic and surrogacy program also provides access to advanced reproductive technologies that may not be available in parts of Europe. Options like genetic screening, genetic selection through pre-implantation genetic testing, and other cutting-edge procedures can significantly increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy and birth.
Comprehensive Support Systems
One of the biggest advantages of pursuing surrogacy in the U.S. is the extensive support network available to guide intended parents through every step, from the initial arrangements and medical procedures through post-birth matters like securing citizenship for your child. Established surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics specialize in assisting international clients, offering legal counsel, psychological support services, medical expertise, and travel coordination.
Some surrogacy agencies even have case managers dedicated to working with European intended parents, providing translation services if needed and helping to bridge any cultural gaps. This level of comprehensive care can reduce much of the stress and uncertainty that European intended parents may face when navigating surrogacy closer to home where there are less formal support structures in place.
Birthright Citizenship & Future Prospects
For those looking toward their child’s future educational and career prospects, a major benefit of having a child born in the U.S. is that they automatically receive American citizenship. This can open valuable doors down the road, like the ability to work, study, or live in the United States without needing to go through the immigration process later in life. Particularly for children born to LGBTQ+ parents, U.S. citizenship can provide important protections.
Cost Considerations
While the costs associated with U.S. surrogacy are often assumed to be prohibitively expensive for international intended parents, the reality is more complex. When factoring in the high success rates at leading fertility clinics, the level of legal protections provided by surrogacy-friendly state laws, and the comprehensive support services available, turning to surrogacy in the U.S. can prove to be a worthwhile and potentially cost-effective investment compared to the uncertainties and potential legal battles faced in many other countries.
There are many avenues for financing through surrogacy-friendly lenders which may help make this path to parenthood more accessible for international intended parents. Costs can be spread out over time rather than requiring a single lump sum payment up front.
Be Open to New Possibilities
For European intended parents feeling constrained by the legal restrictions or social stigma surrounding surrogacy in their home countries, exploring opportunities in the United States can open up a world of new possibilities for building their families. With its well-established surrogacy industry, cutting-edge medical technology, clear legal processes, and comprehensive support services, the U.S. provides a secure and supportive environment in which to pursue this deeply personal journey.
While crossing the Atlantic for surrogacy may not have been your first consideration, the compelling advantages are certainly worth exploring as you pursue your dream of becoming parents. The United States offers a level of freedom, professional guidance, and legal clarity around the surrogacy process that can give hopeful intended parents invaluable peace of mind.
Of course, the decision to pursue surrogacy abroad is a significant one that requires careful research, reflection, and consideration. It’s essential to consult with reputable surrogacy professionals, reproductive lawyers, counselors, and intended parent community groups to fully understand the medical, legal, emotional and financial aspects involved. Surrogacy can be a complex process, but choosing an established U.S. surrogacy program provides structure and safeguards.
For more information
If you’re a European intended parent feeling limited by the surrogacy options in your home country, we encourage you to keep an open mind and reach out to U.S. surrogacy agencies, like Fairfax Surrogacy, to schedule an initial consultation and learn more. Many offer free initial consultations to discuss your specific circumstances. You can also join online forums and communities to connect with others who have navigated this process as international intended parents. Hearing firsthand insights can be invaluable.
While it may not have been your first consideration, the compelling advantages and family-building possibilities offered by U.S. surrogacy agencies are certainly worth exploring as you pursue your parenthood dreams. The chance to welcome your precious child into the world, with legal protections and the supportive guidance of professionals, could make taking the leap across the Atlantic well worth it.
About Fairfax Surrogacy
Located in the surrogacy-friendly state of Maryland, Fairfax Surrogacy excels in bridging the gap between European intended parents and their dreams of build their family through surrogacy in the United States.
Matching intended parents around the globe with surrogates who live in all states in the U.S., Fairfax Surrogacy offers a high standard of credibility, transparency, diversity, and compassion to all who seek our services. From matching you with a surrogate who aligns with your preferences, to offering guidance on the legalities across borders, we’re here with a compassionate ear and a helping hand. Our comprehensive support extends beyond matching, covering legal advice, emotional support, and logistical assistance, ensuring a smooth transition through every stage of the surrogacy process.
Fairfax Surrogacy’s commitment to excellence and the well-being of all parties involved has made us a trusted partner in the surrogacy community, where we continue to celebrate every new life with joy and gratitude.
Contact Fairfax Surrogacy at +1 (866) 820-0662 or visit www.fairfaxsurrogacy.com for more
Related content:
A step by step guide through the surrogacy process, by Kirsten Mclennan
