For many Australians pursuing surrogacy, one of the earliest and most important steps is deciding where to create your embryos. The clinic you choose will influence far more than medical outcomes. It can shape your timeline, affect how smoothly everything runs, and play a big role in how supported you feel throughout the journey.
When looking internationally, the United States stands out as a top destination for intended parents. It offers high standards of care, clear legal frameworks, and deep experience supporting overseas clients. But choosing a clinic isn’t always straightforward. And not every clinic is equally equipped to manage the unique needs of cross-border surrogacy.
This article outlines what to look for in an IVF clinic if you’re pursuing surrogacy abroad.
1. Experience with International Intended Parents
Creating embryos for surrogacy while living in another country brings its own challenges. From different time zones to visa timelines and shipping logistics, international cases require a specialised approach. A clinic that regularly supports overseas intended parents will have systems in place to guide you through each step with clarity and care.
Ask if they provide dedicated coordinators for international cases, offer after-hours availability, or have streamlined processes for handling legal documents and agency communication. Experience with global clients means fewer surprises and better preparation.
International surrogacy journeys involve complex logistics and regulations that vary by country. A clinic familiar with these complexities can proactively address potential issues before they arise. This means intended parents can focus on the emotional and practical aspects of their journey rather than worrying about coordination challenges.
– Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh M.D. FRCPS. FACOG
Fertility Institute of San Diego
2. A Clinic That Sees You, Not Just Your Case File
Larger clinic networks can offer access to broad in- house services. However, smaller independent clinics are often able to deliver more consistent and personalised care. You may work with the same doctor and coordinator from your first consultation all the way through to embryo creation.
That kind of continuity can increase pregnancy outcomes, ease anxiety and build trust, especially when you’re making decisions from halfway across the world.
Having the same specialists throughout your IVF journey means you don’t need to repeat your story multiple times. It fosters a sense of security and connection. This continuity allows for more responsive care, thorough medical care, and better emotional support during what can be a stressful process.
– Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh M.D. FRCPS. FACOG
Fertility Institute of San Diego
3. Access to Advanced Testing and Technology
When choosing a clinic, look closely at their lab technology and what types of testing they offer. This is especially important if you plan to use donor eggs, test embryos, or freeze and ship them internationally. Key offerings to look for include:
- Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT-A)
- Vitrification for high-quality freezing and thawing
- Donor matching and screening services
- In-house senior laboratory teams with strong quality controls
- Cutting edge laboratory equipment
Clinics that focus on surrogacy cases tend to apply these tools in ways that specifically support transfer success and coordination with agencies.
Advanced testing such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) modern freezing techniques like vitrification, cutting edge laboratory equipment like an Embryoscope, can significantly improve outcomes. These technologies help ensure that only the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer, reducing miscarriage rates and increasing chances of a successful pregnancy. For intended parents shipping embryos internationally, reliable freezing and thawing methods are critical to maintain embryo viability. Clinics offering these technologies give you the best chance for a smooth and successful journey.
– Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh M.D. FRCPS. FACOG
Fertility Institute of San Diego
4. Coordination with Surrogacy Agencies and Legal Teams
Your clinic is one part of a bigger picture. They need to work closely with your legal team, surrogacy agency, and donor provider or has an in-house donor database, to ensure every part of the process lines up.
Ask how the clinic manages communication with outside professionals. Do they have established relationships with agencies or lawyers? Are they comfortable managing international logistics? Clinics familiar with this kind of coordination can save you time and reduce the chance of delays.
5. Legal Confidence and Ethical Clarity
One major reason Australians continue to choose the United States is its strong legal framework for surrogacy. In states like California, intended parents are recognised on the birth certificate from the start. Clinics also follow strict medical and ethical regulations, including protocols for using donor gametes and handling genetic material.
Working in a country with clear laws and oversight allows intended parents to move forward with confidence. Your clinic should be well-versed in these requirements and know how to guide you through the process of documentation, parentage, and eventual travel home.
What to Ask at Your First Consultation
Choosing a clinic can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can help narrow it down. Here are a few to consider:
- How often do you work with international intended parents?
- Will I have a dedicated contact person?
- What kind of testing do you recommend for embryos created for surrogacy?
- Do you work directly with surrogacy agencies and legal providers?
Answers to these questions will give you a sense of whether the clinic is a good fit for your situation, your goals, and your communication style.
Choosing an IVF clinic for surrogacy isn’t just about lab quality or success rates. It’s about finding a team that understands the emotional weight of what you’re doing, respects your time, and is equipped to support you wherever you are in the world.
If you’d like to meet experienced IVF experts in person, join us at our upcoming National Surrogacy & Donor Conception Conference in Melbourne. You’ll hear from a range of specialists, including fertility doctors, legal experts, and agency coordinators who are here to help you take the next step.
