If you’re exploring surrogacy from Australia, you may have already discovered that the local pathway can be long, complex, or not quite right for your situation. That’s why some intended parents look overseas.
But international surrogacy is never as simple as hopping on a plane. There are major differences in cost, legal protections, and how long the whole process might take — and you’ll need to be prepared for some serious paperwork.
Here’s a practical overview of the main destinations Australians are considering for surrogacy in 2025—including Canada, the US, Colombia, and some of the trickier options like Georgia and Ukraine—plus what you can expect in terms of cost, timeframe, and legal clarity.
Canada
- Cost: AUD $90,000–$150,000
- Timeframe: 18–36 months
- Legal model: Altruistic surrogacy
- Pros: Ethical, legally secure, excellent healthcare
- Cons: Long wait times for matching
Canada is known for its thoughtful, well-regulated approach to altruistic surrogacy, similar to Australia. It’s legally solid and medically excellent — but due to high demand, matching can take 12–24 months. Once matched, the process typically takes another 12–18 months.
United States
- Cost: AUD $200,000–$300,000
- Timeframe: 15–24 months
- Legal model: Commercial surrogacy permitted in many states
- Pros: Fast matching, strong legal framework
- Cons: Very expensive, state laws vary
The US has a well-established surrogacy infrastructure and fast matching through reputable agencies. Parentage is usually secured before birth e.g. via pre-birth orders in California. It’s reliable, and relatively speedy, but costly — often the most expensive option by far.
Colombia
- Cost: AUD $80,000–$120,000
- Timeframe: 15–24 months
- Legal model: Commercial surrogacy in a legal grey zone
- Pros: Shorter wait times, lower cost
- Cons: Unclear legal framework
Colombia is becoming more popular, particularly for same-sex couples. Agencies operate openly, but legal protections are less established. Citizenship and passport processing for Australian babies can take time and legal support.
Ukraine
- Cost: AUD $70,000–$100,000
- Timeframe: Currently uncertain
- Legal model: Commercial surrogacy for married heterosexual couples
- Pros: Experienced clinics (pre-war), efficient system
- Cons: War-related disruption
Ukraine was a common choice before the war — efficient and cost-effective for eligible couples. Right now, access is unpredictable, and government advice is to avoid non-essential travel.
Greece
- Cost: AUD $100,000–$130,000
- Timeframe: 18–30 months
- Legal model: Surrogacy allowed with court approval for foreign heterosexual couples
- Pros: Clear legal process once approved
- Cons: Lengthy court procedure
In Greece, court approval must be secured before embryo transfer — which can take several months. The system is robust once underway, but matching and legal prep can slow things down.
Other destinations (proceed with caution)
Georgia
- Cost: AUD $70,000–$100,000
- Timeframe: 12–18 months (pre-conflict)
- Note: Legal only for married heterosexual couples. Recent political changes have introduced uncertainty.
Mexico
- Cost: AUD $80,000–$120,000
- Timeframe: 15–24 months
- Note: Legal situation varies by state. Some regions allow foreign surrogacy, others don’t. Legal advice essential.
Kenya
- Cost: AUD $50,000–$80,000
- Timeframe: 12–18 months
- Note: Largely unregulated. Legal protections are minimal. Not recommended by most Australian professionals.
While international surrogacy can offer more options and shorter timelines than what's available in Australia, not all destinations are created equal. Some countries have inconsistent legal protections, exploitative practices, or shifting policies that can leave intended parents, and surrogates, in precarious positions. It's important to go in with eyes wide open.
Countries like Kenya, Nigeria, and certain parts of Eastern Europe have emerged in recent years as low-cost surrogacy destinations, but the risks often outweigh the savings. In some of these regions, there's little to no legal framework to protect the rights of the surrogate or the intended parents. This can lead to serious complications when it comes to establishing parentage, obtaining citizenship for the baby, or even leaving the country.
Even where surrogacy is not explicitly illegal, the absence of regulation can be a red flag. Without proper oversight, there's a greater risk of poor medical care, unethical recruitment of surrogates, and legal grey areas that could delay or derail your journey home with your child.
India, Nepal, and Cambodia, once popular hubs for international surrogacy, have since closed their programs to foreign intended parents due to widespread concerns about exploitation and child trafficking. While you might still come across agencies operating under the radar in these places, it's best to steer well clear. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
A few final thoughts
International surrogacy can be a lifeline — but it’s not a shortcut. Every option comes with emotional, legal, and financial considerations. The “right” country for you will depend on your family structure, values, risk appetite, and budget.
Always seek independent legal advice in both Australia and your chosen country, and be wary of anyone who promises a too-good-to-be-true timeline or cost.
Wherever your journey takes you, Stoorky is here to help you navigate it with clarity, care, and good sense.
