International Surrogacy
for New Zealanders
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For many New Zealanders, the journey to parenthood can be fraught with challenges, particularly with the limitations of domestic surrogacy options. International surrogacy presents a viable solution, allowing intended parents to explore broader options and find the support they need. This page aims to guide you through the essential information on engaging in international surrogacy, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your decision.
Why Consider Surrogacy Abroad
There are several compelling reasons to consider international surrogacy:
Access to Commercial Surrogacy: Unlike New Zealand, many countries permit commercial surrogacy, making the surrogate pool bigger.
Diverse Choices: Engaging in surrogacy abroad allows you to choose from various countries and agencies, each with unique processes and support systems.
Supportive Legal Frameworks: Some countries offer well-defined legal protections for intended parents, ensuring your rights are safeguarded throughout the journey.
Where Do New Zealanders Engage?
New Zealanders commonly pursue international surrogacy in countries known for their supportive legal frameworks and experienced agencies. Some of the most popular destinations include:
Other Surrogacy Destinations
In addition to the popular choices above, here are a few more countries that are gaining recognition for their surrogacy options:
A word of caution: We strongly advise against pursuing surrogacy opportunities in certain countries. This is often due to a lack of legal protections, ethical concerns, unreliable healthcare infrastructure, political or economic instability, challenges with immigration and citizenship, or risks of hidden costs and scams. These factors can jeopardise the safety, well-being, and success of the surrogacy process.
Such countries include:
Argentina
Cambodia
Greece
Guatemala
India
Kenya
Laos
Nepal
North Cyprus
Ukraine
What to Expect When
Engaging in
International Surrogacy
The international surrogacy process involves several critical steps:
Choosing an Agency
Selecting a reputable agency is essential. Research various agencies and check reviews to ensure they meet your needs.
Matching with a Surrogate
Once you’ve chosen an agency, they will help you find a surrogate who aligns with your criteria.
Legal Agreements
Legal experts will draft agreements to protect your rights and outline the responsibilities of all parties involved.
Medical Procedures
Coordinate medical arrangements for embryo transfer and any necessary procedures for the surrogate.
Birth and Exit Process
After the birth, ensure that you have all necessary documentation for legal recognition of parentage, including adoption in New Zealand.
Preparing for Your International
Surrogacy Journey
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth surrogacy experience. Here are some steps to take:
- Research: Gather information about potential countries, agencies, and legal requirements. Our country-specific pages provide valuable insights, including detailed overviews of surrogacy laws and available services.
- Understand the Legal Landscape: Familiarize yourself with the legal implications of surrogacy in your chosen country and how they align with New Zealand laws. Our resources outline common legal considerations and highlight experienced lawyers in various countries.
- Connect with Experienced Parents: Engaging with those who have already navigated the international surrogacy process can provide invaluable insights and support. Consider attending our events, where you can meet and learn from other intended parents, share experiences, and gain practical advice to help you along your journey.
- Consider Emotional Support: Engaging in surrogacy can be an emotional journey. Seek counseling or join support groups to manage the emotional aspects effectively. Our website features links to supportive communities, events, and resources that can help you connect with others on similar journeys.
Important Considerations
As you embark on your international surrogacy journey, keep these important considerations in mind:
Seek Legal Assistance
Though it may not always be necessary (depending on the country you’re engaging in), it’s wise to seeking legal assistance to ensure you’re fully informed. We can help point you in the direction of trusted professionals who specialise in surrogacy law, ensuring you have the right support for your unique situation.
Costs
Be aware of the financial implications, including medical, legal, and travel expenses. Budgeting accordingly can help you avoid surprises. Our country-specific resources provide rough estimates based on actual data from our partner agencies around the globe. Please note that these estimates may not account for all factors that can affect the total cost of your journey.
Child Citizenship
Understand the process for obtaining citizenship for your child born abroad, which may involve additional legal steps. Our guides detail the citizenship process and legal parenthood, providing essential information to ensure you are well-prepared.
For more detailed information on how to prepare for your international surrogacy journey or to understand the important considerations for your chosen country, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help guide you through the process and connect you with the resources you need for a successful experience.
FAQS
Yes, New Zealanders can legally engage in international surrogacy, but they must navigate both the foreign laws and New Zealand’s legal requirements upon returning. For clarity on the legal aspects, it’s beneficial to consult with experienced professionals in this area.
You can find a surrogate through a reputable agency in the country of your choice, which will assist in the matching process and ensure all legal protections are in place. It’s crucial to thoroughly vet any agency you consider to ensure they have a solid track record and uphold ethical practices. Consulting with experienced professionals can help you navigate this process more confidently.
Costs can vary significantly based on the country and agency you choose. It’s essential to budget for all aspects, including medical, legal, and travel expenses. Understanding the potential costs involved can help you plan more effectively.
No, children born via international surrogacy will not automatically receive citizenship. Adoption through a New Zealand court is necessary to establish legal parentage. Familiarizing yourself with the adoption process can ease any concerns you may have.
The timeline can vary widely but typically ranges from several months to a few years, depending on factors such as legal processes and medical procedures. Having a realistic understanding of the timeline is important, and discussing this with knowledgeable experts can provide valuable insights.
Ready to Start
Your Surrogacy Journey?
Schedule a consultation with the Growing Families team and take the first step toward parenthood.
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