One of the first and most common questions intending parents ask is: How much does surrogacy cost in India? While the emotional investment in starting or growing a family is immeasurable, the financial aspect requires serious planning and transparency. At Surrogacy Centre India, we believe that understanding the full financial scope of altruistic surrogacy is key to a smooth, stress-free experience.
Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy Costs
As per the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, updated in 2024, commercial surrogacy is illegal in India. This means surrogate mothers cannot be paid for carrying the child. However, intended parents are still responsible for covering specific medical and logistical costs, including:
- Medical expenses directly related to the pregnancy: This includes everything from fertility treatments to the delivery itself.
- Insurance coverage for 36 months post-delivery: This protects the surrogate from future complications or health risks arising from the pregnancy.
It’s important to understand that while altruistic surrogacy avoids unethical financial exchanges, it still involves structured, regulated costs.
Key Financial Components of Altruistic Surrogacy
Let’s break down the typical areas where expenses will occur:
- Medical Costs
These are usually the most significant and essential expenses. They include:
- IVF cycles: May require multiple attempts to achieve a successful pregnancy.
- Hormonal medications and injections: Administered to both the surrogate and the egg donor (if applicable).
- Ultrasounds and diagnostic tests: Routine and advanced tests ensure the health of the baby and surrogate throughout.
- Embryo transfer and implantation procedures: Key steps in the IVF process, often done under sedation or anesthesia.
- Delivery charges: Hospital admission, delivery (normal or C-section), and neonatal care are all covered.
- Legal Fees
To stay compliant with Indian law, a number of legal steps are required:
- Drafting legal agreements: Includes surrogate contracts and mutual consent documentation.
- Obtaining eligibility certificates: Required by law to begin any surrogacy process.
- Filing for parentage declaration: Ensures legal parenthood is assigned to the intended parents.
- Court and documentation charges: Covers legal filing fees and lawyer representation.
- Surrogate Health & Insurance
Though not compensated directly, the surrogate’s well-being is protected through:
- Mandatory 36-month insurance: Ensures medical support for long-term recovery.
- Emergency or special care: Covers surgeries like C-sections or complications during pregnancy.
- Mental health support: Counseling sessions for psychological preparedness and support, if needed.
- Logistics and Ancillary Services
These may vary depending on the circumstances but commonly include:
- Travel expenses: For medical visits, procedures, or emergencies.
- Nutritional supplements: Diet plans, prenatal vitamins, and specialized nutrition.
- Accommodation: Provided if the surrogate lives far from the treatment facility.
- Screening costs: For both surrogate and intending parents, to ensure physical and emotional readiness.
What You Are Not Allowed to Pay For
Indian law strictly prohibits:
- Cash incentives or gifts to the surrogate: Any form of financial inducement is illegal.
- Commission to agents or brokers: Intermediaries cannot profit from connecting parties.
- Foreign donors or foreign surrogates: Only Indian citizens can participate in altruistic surrogacy.
Tips for Smart Financial Planning
- Budget 10–15% extra: Always plan for contingencies or additional IVF cycles.
- Demand clear billing: Ask for a breakdown of each expense to avoid surprises.
- Work with registered clinics: Only choose surrogacy services that are legally authorized and transparent.
- Partner with professionals: Surrogacy Centre India helps you stay within legal and ethical limits while managing costs effectively.
Conclusion
Planning your finances is just as important as choosing your surrogate or clinic. With the right information and professional help, surrogacy can be financially manageable and emotionally rewarding. At Surrogacy Centre India, we offer full transparency, zero hidden fees, and unmatched support throughout the journey.
