Disclaimer: This article is an original work by Canbaby Fertility Consultant LTD, a Canadian surrogacy consulting company. Reproduction or redistribution without permission is strictly prohibited.
Surrogacy has become a life-changing option for many Canadian individuals and couples struggling with infertility, same-sex couples, and single parents looking to grow their families. However, one of the most important questions intended parents ask is: How much does surrogacy cost in different countries? In this guide, we compare the cost of surrogacy in Canada, the United States, and Colombia, while examining the pros, cons, and legal frameworks for Canadians exploring international surrogacy options.
Whether you are searching for “affordable surrogacy for Canadians”, “legal surrogacy abroad,” or a “surrogacy cost breakdown,” this article provides a detailed, up-to-date analysis tailored to help Canadian intended parents make informed decisions.
1. Surrogacy in Canada: Altruistic but Limited
Legal Overview
Surrogacy is legal in Canada, but it must be altruistic. That means you cannot pay a surrogate for her services beyond approved out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., lost wages, medical bills, transportation). The Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA) strictly prohibits commercial surrogacy.
Estimated Cost in Canada (CAD)
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost (CAD) |
| Legal Fees (Contracts & Parentage) | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| Fertility Clinic and IVF | $12,000 – $20,000+ |
| Surrogate Reimbursements | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Insurance (if needed) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Psychological & Medical Screening | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $45,000 – $80,000 |
Pros
- Legal and regulated environment
- Easier citizenship and parentage process for Canadian babies
- Health care costs are partially covered by provincial insurance (for the surrogate)
Cons
- Long wait times to find an altruistic surrogate
- Complex expense reimbursement process
- No compensation allowed, which limits surrogate availability
2. Surrogacy in the USA: Gold Standard, but Expensive
Legal Overview
The United States is one of the most surrogacy-friendly countries in the world. Several U.S. states, such as California, Nevada, and Oregon, allow commercial surrogacy and have strong legal protections for intended parents, including same-sex couples and single individuals.
Estimated Cost in the USA (USD and CAD)
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost (USD) | Approximate Cost (CAD) |
| Surrogate Compensation | $40,000 – $60,000 | $55,000 – $82,000 |
| Agency Fees | $15,000 – $30,000 | $20,000 – $41,000 |
| Legal Fees | $10,000 – $15,000 | $14,000 – $20,000 |
| IVF & Fertility Treatment | $20,000 – $30,000 | $27,000 – $41,000 |
| Insurance (Surrogate & Baby) | $10,000 – $25,000 | $14,000 – $34,000 |
| Misc. (Travel, Lodging, Baby Costs) | $10,000 – $15,000 | $14,000 – $20,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $100,000 – $150,000 USD | $135,000 – $200,000 CAD |
Pros
- Legally secure and parentage established at birth
- High-quality fertility clinics and medical care
- Surrogates are carefully screened and compensated
Cons
- Extremely expensive—often more than double Canadian surrogacy
- Travel and lodging costs for Canadians
- Insurance can be complicated and expensive
3. Surrogacy in Colombia: The Emerging Affordable Alternative
Legal Overview
Colombia is one of the few countries where commercial surrogacy is legal and accessible to foreign intended parents, including single parents and LGBTQ+ couples. Colombia’s Constitution strongly supports family diversity, and surrogacy agreements are recognized under civil law.
In recent years, Colombia has grown as a popular surrogacy destination for Canadians due to its affordable pricing, modern medical facilities, and relatively quick processes.
Estimated Cost in Colombia (USD and CAD)
| Expense Category | Approximate Cost (USD) | Approximate Cost (CAD) |
| Surrogacy Program (All-Inclusive) | $50,000 – $70,000 | $68,000 – $95,000 |
| Legal & Administrative Fees | Included in most packages | Included |
| IVF and Fertility Treatment | Included | Included |
| Maternity Care & Birth | Included | Included |
| Surrogate Compensation | Included | Included |
| Travel & Lodging (Multiple Trips) | $5,000 – $10,000 | $7,000 – $14,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $55,000 – $80,000 USD | $75,000 – $110,000 CAD |
Pros
- Cost-effective: nearly 40–60% less than the U.S.
- Open to LGBTQ+ and single intended parents
- High-quality private hospitals and English-speaking staff
- Legal contracts and parentage processes available
Cons
- Citizenship and immigration paperwork may take longer
- Additional travel to Colombia may be required (pre-birth and post-birth)
- Language and cultural barriers for some Canadians
- Still a developing legal framework—important to work with trusted agencies
4. Comparing Canada, USA, and Colombia at a Glance
| Feature / Country | Canada | USA | Colombia |
| Surrogacy Type | Altruistic only | Commercial allowed | Commercial allowed |
| Legality for Canadians | Legal | Legal in specific states | Legal nationwide |
| LGBTQ+ Friendly | Yes | Yes (state-dependent) | Yes |
| Estimated Cost (CAD) | $45,000 – $80,000 | $135,000 – $200,000 | $75,000 – $110,000 |
| Wait Time for Surrogate | 6–18 months or more | 3–6 months | 3–6 months |
| Parental Rights at Birth | Varies by province | Clear and immediate | Clear, with legal process |
| Medical Quality | High | Very High | High (in top clinics) |
| Travel Required | Minimal | Moderate | Required (multiple visits) |
5. Key Considerations for Canadian Intended Parents
Before choosing a country for surrogacy, Canadian intended parents should evaluate:
1. Legal Compliance with Canadian Law
Any international surrogacy arrangement must comply with Canadian immigration and citizenship laws. A baby born abroad through surrogacy must meet Canada’s requirements for citizenship, which often includes legal documentation of parentage and the surrogacy process.
2. Surrogacy Agency Reputation
Whether in Colombia or the U.S., choose agencies with a strong track record, English-speaking staff, and transparent contracts. Avoid any agency offering shortcuts or operating in legal gray areas.
3. Medical Standards
Ensure the fertility clinics and maternity hospitals follow international protocols and maintain high standards for medical care, embryo transfer, and prenatal services.
4. Timeline and Flexibility
Some countries may require multiple trips. For example, in Colombia, intended parents are usually required to travel for embryo transfer and to be present at birth. Consider your schedule and job flexibility.
5. Post-Birth Legal Process
In all cases, you will need to establish parentage and apply for Canadian citizenship for your child. The timeline can vary based on the country and the completeness of your paperwork.
6. Which Country Is Right for You?
Choose Canada If:
- You already have a surrogate in mind
- You are willing to wait for an altruistic match
- You want minimal travel and legal complexity
- You prefer the familiarity of the Canadian healthcare system
Choose the USA If:
- You want the highest level of legal protection
- Budget is not a major constraint
- You need a surrogate quickly
- You want access to elite fertility clinics
Choose Colombia If:
- You’re seeking a legal, ethical, and affordable option
- You’re LGBTQ+ or a single parent looking for inclusivity
- You want a mid-range budget with full medical services
- You’re open to international travel and a few more steps in the legal process
Final Thoughts: Balancing Budget, Legality, and Peace of Mind
For Canadian intended parents, the decision to pursue surrogacy—whether at home or abroad—depends on multiple factors: budget, timeline, legal risk, and personal comfort. While Canada offers a lower-cost, altruistic path with legal protections, it comes with long wait times and limited surrogate availability. The USA remains the gold standard in surrogacy law and care but at a premium price. Colombia, meanwhile, is gaining popularity as a cost-effective and legally secure alternative, especially for Canadians who are LGBTQ+, single, or simply priced out of U.S. programs.
Whatever path you choose, make sure to consult with legal professionals, medical experts, and surrogacy consultants who are experienced in international arrangements for Canadian citizens.
Looking for a personalized surrogacy plan?
Book a free consultation with a surrogacy advisor specializing in Canadian
intended parents exploring options in the USA and Colombia.
