Surrogacy in Armenia has been legally recognised since 2002, offering a reliable and affordable option for intended parents, particularly from Europe and neighbouring countries. The country provides both gestational and traditional surrogacy, with clear legal provisions that grant parental rights from birth through pre-birth parental orders.
Armenia is known for its cost-effectiveness, with surrogacy fees significantly lower than those in Western countries. Despite the lower costs, the country maintains a high standard of care and a streamlined process. With reputable IVF clinics and surrogacy agencies, Armenia offers comprehensive services, including surrogate matching, IVF treatments, and legal support, in a supportive and efficient environment.
How Does Surrogacy in Armenia Work?
Surrogacy in Armenia operates within a legally defined structure, making it an appealing option for intended parents seeking reliable family-building services. Armenian agencies assist with the entire surrogacy process, including matching intended parents with a surrogate or egg donor (if needed), coordinating IVF treatment at partner clinics, and managing medical, legal, and administrative steps. Each stage is designed to ensure compliance with Armenian law while meeting the unique needs of each family.
When choosing an agency, it’s essential for intended parents to carefully research their options. Reviewing the agency’s track record, values, and personalized support can ensure a positive and well-managed experience. An ethical, reputable agency will work closely with intended parents to adapt programs according to individual requirements, providing consistent support throughout the process.
Who can build a family
in Armenia
Married heterosexual couples
Singles
Genetic link to the child is required
Parental rights granted at birth via parental order
Parents must apply for child’s citizenship in their home country
Legal Framework for Surrogacy in Armenia
Surrogacy in Armenia is governed by clear laws that allow both gestational and traditional surrogacy arrangements, although gestational surrogacy is more common. The law requires that at least one intended parent have a genetic link to the child, ensuring a biological connection. Parental rights are automatically granted to the intended parents at birth through a pre-birth parental order, with no legal parentage rights for the surrogate. However, children born to foreign intended parents do not acquire Armenian citizenship, and parents must apply for citizenship in their home country.
Surrogates cannot be Armenian, creating ethical concerns about removal from support networks in their own countries.
Costs range from
US$35,000
to
US$54,000
Surrogacy Costs in Armenia
Surrogacy in Armenia offers a significantly more affordable option compared to Western countries, with costs typically ranging between US $35,000 and US $54,000, depending on the program and agency selected. The cost can vary based on several factors, such as the type of program (e.g., shipped embryo programs, which are often lower in cost if the first or second transfer is successful) or whether donor embryos are required. If intended parents first attempt to use their own embryos and later switch to a donor program, the costs can increase substantially.
Service providers typically charge a package fee, which may cover a variety of services including IVF treatment, surrogate compensation, medical procedures, and legal assistance. However, it’s essential to thoroughly understand what is included in the package and what additional costs may apply. For example, travel, accommodation, and passport expenses for the intended parents and the child are separate from the surrogacy fees.
Growing Families can help intended parents navigate these packages, ensuring transparency and helping to identify any additional costs that may not be initially disclosed by the agencies or clinics. This guidance can ensure that you budget accurately for the entire process.
1 to 3 months
Surrogate & Donor Match Times
Once the intended parents choose a surrogacy agency or clinic, they can expect to be matched with a surrogate in a few weeks. The exact timeline for donor and surrogate matching may vary depending on factors such as medical requirements and personal preferences, but most matches are made within one to three months.
12 to 18 months
(from initial consultation to birth)
Surrogacy Timeline in Armenia
After getting matched, IVF treatment and embryo transfer typically take place within a few months, with the pregnancy confirmed shortly thereafter. The entire surrogacy process in Armenia usually spans around 12 to 18 months, from initial consultation to birth.
Travel document processing timelines:
UK citizens: 10-16 weeks
US citizens: 2-5 weeks
Europeans: 4-9 weeks
Australians: 12 weeks
Exit Procedures
After the birth of the child, intended parents will need to complete exit procedures to bring the baby back to their home country. The Armenian government does not automatically grant citizenship to children born via surrogacy to foreign parents, so the parents must apply for citizenship from their own country. The process involves obtaining a birth certificate, passport, and other necessary travel documents for the child. Intended parents must be present in Armenia for the birth and stay until all necessary documents are prepared.
Growing Families offers guidance and support for acquiring citizenship and travel documents to streamline the process for international parents.
Why Choose Armenia for Surrogacy
Armenia offers an attractive destination for international surrogacy, thanks to its reputable fertility clinics, straightforward regulations, and well-established surrogacy infrastructure. The country has become a preferred choice for intended parents looking for reliable surrogacy solutions at a more accessible cost compared to other regions. Below are key reasons why Armenia stands out:
Surrogacy Agencies in Armenia
In Armenia, there are several reputable surrogacy agencies that offer professional and supportive services for international clients. These agencies are known for their strong track record, providing tailored support throughout the surrogacy process—from selecting a surrogate to managing legal and administrative tasks. Many agencies in Armenia offer multilingual staff and ensure that intended parents feel comfortable and supported throughout their journey.
Fertility Clinics in Armenia
Armenia is home to at least five reputable IVF clinics, all located in the capital city, Yerevan. These clinics are well-equipped and staffed with experienced English-speaking doctors who specialize in surrogacy-related IVF. They have extensive experience in donor IVF, self-cycles, and working with shipped biomaterials, making them highly adaptable to a variety of family-building needs.
Whether you’re using your own embryos or opting for egg donation, Armenian fertility clinics are well-versed in providing successful, high-quality treatment tailored to your specific needs.
Embryo Shipping to Armenia
Armenia has straightforward regulations when it comes to shipped embryos and sperm. Clinics in Armenia require a letter from the sending clinic that includes key information about the intended parents, as well as typical medical and legal documentation. Notably, Armenia does not require notarised documentation for these processes, simplifying the shipping and legal requirements significantly.
Growing Families can assist with all aspects of your surrogacy journey in Armenia, from choosing the right fertility clinic and surrogacy agency to facilitating gamete shipping and ensuring all necessary documentation is in order. With our expertise, we provide comprehensive support, helping you navigate the entire process smoothly and confidently.
Starting Surrogacy in Armenia
Embarking on your surrogacy journey in Armenia can be an exciting but complex process. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right agency to guide you through this experience. The agency you select will play a pivotal role in connecting you with surrogates, managing IVF treatments, and supporting you through the legal and logistical steps involved.
How do you choose the right surrogacy agency?
While there are many agencies to choose from, not all will offer the same level of service, expertise, or personal connection. So, how can you ensure that you choose the right one for your surrogacy journey in Armenia? Here are a few key factors to consider as you begin your search:
Language & Communication: Choose an agency where you can clearly communicate with the team throughout the process. Agencies in Armenia often work with English-speaking staff, but it’s essential to ensure that the language barrier doesn’t interfere with your understanding of the process.
Transparency & Reputation: Look for an agency that is transparent about how surrogates and egg donors are selected and screened. Agencies should also be upfront about their track record, and the level of support they offer at each stage of the journey. Visit their website and look for testimonials, case studies, and any additional information to help you gauge their credibility.
Ethical Practices: It’s important that the agency follows ethical practices, ensuring the safety, comfort, and informed consent of the surrogate mother. Understand how they support surrogates throughout the process and ensure there are safeguards in place to avoid risks such as exploitation or harm.
Legal and Logistical Guidance: Different countries have different legal frameworks around surrogacy. Make sure the agency has experience with the specific laws in Armenia and how they support international intended parents with exit procedures, citizenship, and travel documentation.
Choosing the right agency is a crucial first step in your surrogacy journey, and with careful research and consideration, you’ll be well on your way to building the family of your dreams.
Growing Families has extensive experience working with reputable surrogacy agencies in Armenia. We can help you navigate the selection process by identifying agencies that best align with your specific needs, preferences, and family-building goals. With our guidance, we’ll ensure you make an informed decision, helping you find an agency that truly supports your journey every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, surrogacy is legal in Armenia. However, the country does not automatically grant citizenship to children born to foreign parents, and parents must apply for their child’s citizenship and travel documents from their home country.
In Armenia, both gestational and traditional surrogacy are permitted. However, at least one of the intended parents must have a genetic link to the child.
The first step is to choose a reputable surrogacy agency in Armenia. From there, you’ll undergo the necessary medical and legal procedures. Working with an agency that understands your needs and offers comprehensive support will help ensure a smooth and successful journey.
When choosing an agency, it’s important to research their reputation, the services they offer, and their experience with international clients. Make sure they have English-speaking staff and clear communication, as well as a comprehensive approach to supporting the surrogate and intended parents throughout the process. Contact us if you need help with finding a surrogacy agency that matches your needs.
Reputable surrogacy agencies in Armenia offer a range of services, including matching intended parents with surrogates and egg donors, coordinating IVF treatments, providing legal and medical support, and assisting with exit procedures and travel documentation.
The cost of surrogacy in Armenia typically ranges from $35,000 to $54,000, depending on the type of program and agency. Prices may vary based on the inclusion of services such as embryo shipping or donor egg programs.
The entire surrogacy process in Armenia usually takes between 12 to 18 months, from initial consultation to the birth of the child. The timeline can vary based on specific circumstances like IVF treatment or embryo transfer.
Yes, there are at least five reputable IVF clinics in Yerevan, Armenia, all of which have English-speaking doctors experienced in supporting surrogacy-related IVF, donor IVF, self-cycles, and handling shipped gametes.
Yes, Armenia has relatively simple regulations for shipping embryos and sperm. Clinics require a letter from the sending clinic outlining key information about the intended parents, and notarised documentation is not required. Contact us if you need help with shipping gametes or embryos to Armenia.
Intended parents must be present in Armenia during the birth of the child. The process of obtaining travel documents varies depending on the country of citizenship, with timelines ranging from 2 to 16 weeks for various countries. Contact us if you need guidance on navigating the exit process in Armenia.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If you’re interested in learning more about surrogacy and how we can support your family-building goals, contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process.