Surrogacy in Georgia
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Average price: 60,000 to 90,000 USD
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Legal status: Regulated
Intended Parents Accepted: Heterosexual couples (married or cohabiting) -
Types of surrogacy supported: Gestational surrogacy
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Surrogate Compensation: Commercial surrogacy
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The Surrogacy Insider viewpoint: viable option for suitable couples with a trusted provider ONLY
Georgia has emerged as a leading surrogacy destination in Europe in recent years, specifically after the full scale war in Ukraine saw many intended parents and agencies relocate their journeys there. Georgia’s surrogacy landscape is known for its relative affordability, clear legal framework, and accessibility for international parents. Commercial surrogacy has been legal in Georgia since 1997 under the Law on Health Care, making it one of the few countries with explicit legislation governing surrogacy.
Intended parents (IPs) are recognized as the legal parents from birth, and the surrogate has no parental rights - a stark contrast to many Western countries where court procedures or adoptions are required.
Georgia’s surrogacy programs often cost a fraction of what they would in the United States, attracting couples from the UK, EU, Israel, and beyond.
However, recent debates in Georgia’s government about banning surrogacy for foreign couples have introduced some uncertainty. In mid-2023 the Prime Minister announced plans to restrict surrogacy to Georgian citizens only (citing concerns about trafficking and same-sex couples), but as of 2025 these proposals have not been implemented and surrogacy remains open to foreign heterosexual couples.
This transparent overview will cover all aspects of surrogacy in Georgia, from legal status and process steps to costs, risks, and comparisons.
With The Surrogacy Insider, you can make an informed decision with the latest information.
Why Choose Georgia for Surrogacy?
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Significantly Lower Cost: Surrogacy in Georgia is 50–70% cheaper than in the U.S. or Western Europe. Total programs average around 60,000 – 80,000 USD, whereas U.S. surrogacy often exceeds 150,000+ USD. These savings come without compromising legal security, making Georgia an attractive option for budget-conscious parents.
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Clear Legal Framework: Georgia has a well-defined surrogacy law (established in 1997) that automatically recognizes the intended parents as the legal parents from the moment of birth. Both altruistic and commercial surrogacy are allowed, and birth certificates are issued with the IPs’ names only, within one day of birth. There is no need for adoption or court orders to establish parentage, providing clarity and peace of mind.
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Long Track Record: Having regulated surrogacy for over two decades, Georgia has a long history of successful surrogacy arrangements. The country actively welcomes foreign couples to its programs, and local professionals are experienced in navigating cross-border cases (e.g. dealing with embassies, travel documents, etc.).
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Accessibility and Location: Georgia’s location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia makes it relatively easy to reach. Tbilisi is a short flight from many EU cities and the Middle East. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to one year - helpful when intended parents need to stay through the birth and paperwork stage. Being a travel-friendly destination (with hospitable culture and low cost of living) is a bonus for parents who may need to make multiple trips.
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Growing Medical Infrastructure: Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, boasts a significant number of reputable IVF clinics with English-speaking doctors experienced in surrogacy cases. The medical facilities continue to modernize, and many clinics adhere to international standards. Intended parents can often communicate in English, and many doctors and coordinators have experience working with international patients, minimizing language barriers in the medical process.
While Georgia’s surrogacy industry is booming, prospective parents should also be aware of its limitations and evolving landscape (covered under Risks and Challenges below).
Overall, the combination of affordability, legal certainty, and experience has positioned Georgia as a top choice for many heterosexual couples worldwide seeking to build their family through surrogacy.
Having questions about the Surrogacy process in Georgia? Schedule your FREE 30min consultation with Olga!
Current Legal Status of Surrogacy in Georgia
Surrogacy is legal in Georgia and regulated by specific provisions in the Law of Georgia on Health Care and related acts. Key points of the current legal framework include:
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Who Can Undertake Surrogacy: Only heterosexual couples (a man and a woman) are permitted to be intended parents under Georgian law. The couple must be either legally married or in a long-term cohabiting relationship (common-law marriage) of at least 1 year. They also need a medical indication for surrogacy - typically proof of infertility or an inability for the woman to carry a pregnancy to term. (Common accepted indications include absence of a uterus, serious health risks if pregnant, repeated IVF failures or miscarriages, etc.). Single individuals cannot legally do surrogacy in Georgia, and neither can same-sex couples. If any clinic or agency offers surrogacy to single men or same-sex partners, they are operating outside Georgian law and such arrangements would not have legal protection.
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Surrogate’s Rights and Legal Parentage: By law, the surrogate mother has no parental rights over the child. From the moment of birth, the intended parents are recognized as the child’s only legal parents. The surrogate’s name does not appear on the birth certificate at all. Moreover, the surrogate’s consent is not required at birth registration to list the intended parents as the parents (her prior consent is given in the contract). This means the surrogate cannot change her mind and keep the baby – Georgian law explicitly prevents a surrogate from claiming parental status. This clear rule greatly simplifies the post-birth process compared to many countries.
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Birth Certificate: The birth certificate is typically issued within 24 hours after delivery, naming the intended mother and father as the parents. No court hearing is needed to transfer parentage, and no adoption process is required. The Georgian Civil Acts registry directly registers the intended parents based on the surrogacy contract and medical certificate from the hospital. In fact, a birth via surrogacy in Georgia results in a certificate indistinguishable from any other birth certificate - there is no mention of surrogacy or donation on the document.
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Surrogacy for Foreigners: Georgia explicitly allows foreign citizens to use surrogacy services on the same terms as Georgian citizens. There is no residency requirement for the intended parents; many Georgian clinics and agencies specialize in international surrogacy. Important: In 2023, lawmakers discussed banning surrogacy for foreigners (and limiting it to altruistic cases for Georgian nationals only) to address ethical concerns. These proposals have not become law as of mid-2025, but the situation could evolve. It’s wise for intended parents to stay updated on the law and work with trusted legal advisors (and we will note any updates here).
Types of Surrogacy Permitted in Georgia
Only gestational surrogacy is allowed in Georgia – meaning the surrogate carries a baby to whom she has no genetic relation. Traditional surrogacy (where the surrogate’s own egg is used) is prohibited by law. Key details include:
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Gestational Surrogacy Only: In a Georgian surrogacy arrangement, the embryo must be created using either the intended mother’s egg or a donor egg; the surrogate mother cannot use her own egg. The law explicitly forbids a surrogate from being an egg donor for the same pregnancy. This ensures the child is not biologically related to the carrier, which underpins the surrogate’s lack of parental rights. All surrogates in Georgia are gestational carriers only.
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Use of Donor Eggs or Sperm: Georgia permits egg donation and sperm donation as part of IVF and surrogacy procedures. Donor gametes can be used in cases where the intended parents need them (e.g. egg donor for an intended mother with non-viable eggs, or sperm donor if needed). The law allows non- anonymous donations. Donors must meet health criteria and undergo medical screening. In practice, most egg donors are young women (often age 21–30 is the typical range). Sperm donors are likewise screened. Intended parents can sometimes choose donors from a database with profiles, but donors have no legal rights to any child born (donors do not appear on birth records).
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Shipping Embryos from Abroad: Georgia’s laws accommodate modern IVF practices such as embryo freezing and import/export. Embryos can be created locally in Georgia or shipped from abroad—many couples choose to create embryos in their home country and then transport them. The use of frozen embryos and gametes is explicitly allowed, with clinics following strict chain-of-custody protocols and requiring full documentation (proof of genetic material and clinic records). However, it’s important to note that Georgian regulations require that any donors be identified and included in the notarized surrogacy agreement. This creates a challenge when embryos are created in countries that allow anonymous donation, as anonymous donors cannot sign the legal agreement required by Georgian law. As a result, embryos created abroad with anonymous donor material generally cannot be used in a Georgian surrogacy arrangement.
Step-by-Step Surrogacy Process in Georgia
Surrogacy in Georgia generally follows a well-defined sequence of steps. Below is a step-by-step overview of the process, along with typical timeframes for each stage. Keep in mind that individual journeys can vary, but this provides a realistic roadmap:
1. Initial Consultation and Planning: You’ll start by consulting with a surrogacy agency or clinic (or an independent advisor) to discuss your situation, goals, and the Georgian program. In this phase, the intended parents undergo medical evaluations (fertility tests, etc.) either at home or in Georgia to establish the fertility plan. You’ll also gather any required medical proof of infertility. This stage also involves selecting your IVF clinic and legal counsel. Timeline: Often about 1–2 months for consultations, signing service agreements, and getting preliminary tests done. Many couples do this remotely at first, then plan a trip to Georgia to kick off the medical process.
2. Fertility Treatments and Embryo Creation: If using your own gametes, the intended mother (or an egg donor) will undergo ovarian stimulation for IVF. The intended father (or sperm donor) provides sperm. The IVF clinic creates embryos in vitro. You may do this in Georgia or in another country and then ship the embryos to Georgia. If using a donor, you’ll select a donor through the clinic’s program and ensure all consent forms are in place. Georgia allows shipping frozen embryos into the country, provided documentation from the originating clinic is submitted. Timeline: Creating embryos can take 4–8 weeks (including coordinating donor matching if needed, stimulation cycle, and the IVF procedure). If you already have frozen embryos, this step is shorter – just time to arrange shipment and import paperwork (which can be a few weeks). By the end of this step, you ideally have one or more viable embryos ready for transfer.
3. Finding and Matching with a Surrogate: In parallel with (or after) embryo creation, the agency/clinic will recruit and match you with a surrogate mother. All surrogates go through screening (medical exams, psychological evaluation, background checks) before being approved. You’ll typically be presented with a surrogate’s profile, and upon mutual agreement, a match is made. Note: There is currently a shortage of local Georgian surrogates, due in part to high demand after Ukraine’s surrogacy programs became less accessible. As a result, wait times for a surrogate have increased. In 2022–2023, intended parents have experienced a 3 to 7 month wait to be matched with a surrogate on average. This wait can vary depending on the agency and your specific criteria (for example, if you need a surrogate with a particular background or if you require an egg donor simultaneously). Some agencies have started bringing in surrogates from neighboring countries (e.g. Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan) to meet demand, but this practice raises ethical and legal considerations (see Risks and Challenges). Timeline: 3–7+ months wait is common as of 2024. During this time, your embryos are safely stored. Patience is key here – be prepared for a wait before transfer.
4. Legal Contract and Notarization: Once a surrogate is matched, all parties sign a surrogacy agreement in Georgia. This contract outlines the rights and obligations of the intended parents and surrogate, including compensation, medical care, and the surrogate’s waiver of parental rights. The agreement must be notarized in Georgia to be legally valid. (If the intended parents cannot be physically present to sign, it’s possible to give power of attorney for someone to sign on your behalf, but many couples prefer to travel to Georgia at least by this point.) Georgian law prohibits anonymity in the surrogacy process – meaning the contract will identify the intended parents, the surrogate, and any donor by name. This transparency is to ensure no hidden parties and clear consent. Timeline: The contract drafting and notarization can be done in 1–2 weeks. It typically occurs shortly before the embryo transfer, once a surrogate passes final medical checks. You will need your marriage certificate and medical infertility letter, among other documents, ready for this stage (translated and apostilled).
5. Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy: After the contract is signed, the IVF clinic coordinates the embryo transfer into the surrogate’s uterus. Often the best-quality embryo is transferred; sometimes multiple embryos (2) might be transferred depending on the program and the parents’ wishes (though transferring more than one increases chances of twins and associated risks). The surrogate will have been prepared hormonally for the transfer. About 10–14 days after transfer, a pregnancy test is done. If successful, the pregnancy is confirmed; if not, subsequent embryo transfer attempts are scheduled (you typically either pay per attempt or have a package covering a certain number of attempts).
Timeline: The first embryo transfer can happen very soon after matching if an embryo is ready and the surrogate’s cycle is synchronized – possibly within a few weeks of contract signing. If a transfer fails, clinics often try again after a short break; the maximum interval between transfer attempts is around 3 months (to allow the surrogate’s body to rest). Once pregnancy is achieved, it’s the standard ~9 month gestation. During pregnancy, the surrogate will receive regular prenatal care at the clinic and progress updates will be shared with you. Many intended parents visit Georgia at least once during the pregnancy (for example at 12 weeks or at birth, some also come for a 20-week scan), though it’s not mandatory until birth.
6. Pregnancy Monitoring: Throughout the pregnancy, the clinic or agency monitors the surrogate’s health and the baby’s development. Georgia has competent OB/GYN doctors; however, intended parents should maintain good communication to stay informed. Due to language differences (many surrogates speak Georgian or Russian, not English), updates may come via the agency’s coordinators who translate. The intended parents can usually video call or message the surrogate periodically (with assistance) if desired, but note that deep direct relationships are not common due to cultural and language barriers. The surrogate’s role is viewed professionally, and she will be supported by the agency for her needs. It’s recommended to at least maintain some contact (even if through a translator) to provide encouragement and build a cordial connection.
7. Birth and Immediate Post-Birth: When the big day arrives, the surrogate will deliver the baby in a hospital (often in Tbilisi). Intended parents are strongly encouraged to be in Georgia by the expected due date (or earlier, in case of premature birth) so they can be present for the birth of their child. After birth, the hospital issues a medical birth certificate, and within 1 business day the Civil Registry will issue the official birth certificate naming the intended parents. Georgia does not require the surrogate’s consent at this stage – by law, the birth is registered directly to the IPs as long as you provide the required documents: the notarized surrogacy contract, the embryo transfer certificate from the clinic, and the hospital birth record. With those, the Public Service Hall will record you as mother and father of the child. This process is usually quick (often same day or within a few days). The newborn will typically be discharged to your care as soon as they are medically cleared (which could be 2-5 days after birth, depending on delivery type). The surrogate has no legal hold on the baby, and in practice the baby is handed to the intended parents immediately after birth (or to a neonatal care team if any special care is needed). It’s an emotional and joyous moment as you finally hold your baby!
8. Post-Birth Exit Process: After obtaining the Georgian birth certificate, the final step is to arrange citizenship and a passport/travel document for the baby from your home country so you can return home. The baby does not get Georgian citizenship (Georgia does not automatically confer citizenship to children of foreign parents). Therefore, the child is effectively stateless at birth until you sort out their nationality. Different countries have different procedures here (see Exit Process and Citizenship section below for details). Typically, you will apply for your baby’s passport at your embassy in Georgia. For example, British parents must apply for a UK passport and will need to show documents and likely wait several weeks for issuance; U.S. parents apply for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad and U.S. passport, which may only take a couple of weeks once a DNA test is done. You should budget a few weeks (or in worst cases a few months) in Georgia after birth to finish paperwork – the exact time depends on your nationality (e.g. recent reports indicate roughly 2–3 weeks for U.S. citizens, 6–9 weeks for Australians, and 8–16 weeks for UK citizens to complete the exit process). During this time you care for your newborn in a hotel or apartment in Georgia. Once you have the baby’s passport and any necessary visas, you are free to depart for home as a new family!
Average overall timeline: From the start of the process to bringing your baby home, most couples can expect around 15 to 18 months in total. This accounts for a few months of preparation, several months waiting for a surrogate match, 9 months of pregnancy, and post-birth formalities. Some journeys are faster (if a surrogate is matched quickly and pregnancy occurs on the first try) while others take longer (multiple IVF attempts or unforeseen delays). Working with a reliable clinic and support network can help keep things moving as smoothly as possible.
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Costs and Typical Surrogacy Packages in Georgia
One of the biggest draws of Georgia is the affordability of surrogacy compared to countries like the USA or Canada. Here we break down the typical costs and structure of surrogacy programs in Georgia, and what extras to budget for:
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Total Program Cost: Most complete surrogacy packages in Georgia range between $40,000 and $80,000 USD. By comparison, surrogacy in the United States often costs $150,000–$180,000 or more, meaning Georgia can be 50–70% cheaper. Even within Eurasia, Georgia is slightly less expensive than some similar destinations.
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Cost Breakdown: A typical Georgian surrogacy budget includes several components:
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Medical/IVF Expenses: This covers the IVF cycle, embryo creation, surrogate’s embryo transfer, pregnancy monitoring, and the delivery. IVF treatments in Georgia are relatively low-cost. For instance, an embryo transfer procedure might cost a few thousand dollars. If multiple IVF attempts are needed, each will add cost. Clinics may offer packages with a set number of IVF attempts.
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Surrogate Compensation: Surrogates in Georgia are paid a base compensation for carrying the baby. Due to the recent popularity of Georgia, surrogate compensation has risen – it used to be around $18k–$25k a few years ago, but now surrogates typically receive about $25,000–$30,000 USD on average, sometimes up to $35k for some experienced surrogates. This base fee is usually paid in installments throughout the pregnancy and after birth. In addition, the intended parents cover the surrogate’s monthly living stipend, maternity clothing allowance, and other agreed expenses.
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Agency/Coordination Fees: A surrogacy agency charges a fee for recruiting and managing the surrogate and coordinating the process with its local subcontractors. In Georgia this is often in the range of $4,000–$6,000 for local agencies, which is far lower than agency fees in the U.S. (which can be $20k+).
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Legal Fees: You will need a Georgian lawyer to draft/review contracts and handle birth registration paperwork. Legal fees in Georgia might be around $1,500–$3,000. You should also factor in legal help in your home country for the adoption process if relevant (for example, UK parents often hire a lawyer to handle the parental order back home).
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Egg Donor Fees (if applicable): If you require an egg donor, agencies charge for donor matching and compensation. An egg donor in Georgia may receive around $2,000–$8,000 depending on her profile (this is included in some package prices if you choose a program with donor eggs).
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Miscellaneous: This includes surrogate’s travel (if she has to come from a different city for clinic visits), medical insurance or contingency funds for pregnancy complications, notarization costs, translation of documents, etc.
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Guaranteed vs Non-Guaranteed Programs: Many Georgian agencies offer different packages:
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Standard (Non-Guaranteed) Program: You pay as you go for each IVF attempt and surrogate pregnancy. If the first transfer fails or a miscarriage occurs, you pay for subsequent attempts separately. The overall cost will depend on how many cycles and embryo transfer it takes to achieve a successful pregnancy and birth.
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Guarantee or Live-Birth Guarantee Program: These packages charge a higher fixed fee (for example, $60-80k) but might include unlimited IVF attempts until a live birth is achieved. If multiple cycles are needed or a surrogate needs to be rematched due to a failed attempt, the agency covers those within the package. This can provide peace of mind against unexpected additional costs, though if you succeed on the first try, a guarantee package ends up more expensive than pay-as-you-go.
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It’s important to clarify what is included in any program. For example, some packages include the first egg donor cycle but charge extra if you need a second egg donor or are limited by the number of attempts; some include surrogate and neonatal intensive care insurances, others don’t. Always ask for a detailed breakdown.
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Additional Possible Expenses: Beyond the core program fee, be prepared for:
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Travel and Accommodation: You will need to travel to Georgia at least once or twice (for the birth for sure, possibly earlier for sperm donation). Georgia is relatively affordable for long stays, but you should still budget for flights, hotels/apartments, local transport, and daily living expenses during your visits. A rough estimate might be $5,000–$10,000 total for travel costs across the journey (more if you plan frequent trips or long stays).
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Passport and Document Processing: There will be fees for things like getting documents apostilled, translating documents from Georgian, applying for your baby’s passport, DNA test fees (for citizenship proof), etc. For example, DNA tests for embassy purposes can cost a few hundred dollars.
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Unexpected Medical Costs: While rare, if the surrogate has complications or the baby needs special care (NICU), not all plans cover those fully. Check if the package includes pregnancy insurance or a contingency fund. If not, you might need extra funds just in case. Notably, adding preimplantation genetic testing (PGD) to screen embryos can add $3,000–$5,000 to your costs.
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Rising Costs Trend: Due to the surrogate shortage, compensation levels have gone up and agencies have started increasing their package prices slightly. For instance, surrogate base pay in Georgia jumped from around $22 to $28k–$35k in recent years. This trend may continue, so consider that the “low end” of cost might not be as low in the future.
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Overall, transparency is key: reputable agencies should provide a line-item cost list. Make sure you understand which services are included in your chosen package (number of IVF cycles, included donor or not, what happens if complications arise, etc.). Don’t forget to budget for your own travel and post-birth stay. Even with all the extras, Georgia’s cost advantage remains substantial, often coming in at roughly half the price of a U.S. surrogacy journey for comparable outcomes.
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Requirements for Intended Parents
Intended parents must meet certain eligibility requirements to pursue surrogacy in Georgia, aimed at ensuring the process is used by stable, medically-eligible families. The requirements are:
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Marital Status: The intended parents must be a heterosexual couple who are either legally married or can prove they have been in a cohabiting, marriage-like relationship for at least 1 year. Proof of marriage (a marriage certificate) or evidence of cohabitation (such as a notarized affidavit or shared lease, etc.) is required when registering for the program. The law treats a long-term common-law partnership equivalent to marriage for surrogacy, as long as you can document the duration. There is no stipulation that the couple must be of a certain nationality or Georgian residents - foreign couples qualify so long as they meet these criteria.
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Sexual Orientation: By law, only a male-female couple can apply. Same-sex couples are not allowed to do surrogacy in Georgia, and neither are single men or single women. The government has been explicit that surrogacy is intended “for a man and a woman” under Georgian legislation, reflecting conservative social policies. Attempts to circumvent this (e.g., a single man claiming to be part of a couple, etc.) are risky and not recommended, as the documents will not be accepted for birth registration if they don’t meet the letter of the law.
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Medical Need: Surrogacy in Georgia is legally restricted to cases of medical necessity. Intended parents must provide a doctor’s letter or medical report confirming why they cannot carry a pregnancy themselves. Common acceptable indications include: the intended mother has no uterus (e.g., due to surgery), or a medical condition making pregnancy dangerous (heart or kidney disease, etc.), or repeated IVF implantation failures or miscarriages that indicate she cannot carry to term. In practice, clinics will ask for medical records or a letter from a fertility specialist/OB-GYN in your home country. This requirement is taken seriously to prevent surrogacy from being used when not medically needed. (Note: Single women using surrogacy for social reasons would not qualify; Georgia isn’t a “surrogacy on demand” location - there must be an infertility diagnosis for the couple.)
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Age of Intended Parents: Georgia does not impose a strict age limit on intended parents in the law. However, fertility clinics may have their own guidelines for safety. Generally, intended mothers in their 50s and 60s have done surrogacy in Georgia using donor eggs, but each clinic will assess health risks. Older intended parents may be required to undergo extra medical evaluations. The key is that at least one intended parent must be able to contribute genetic material - typically the father’s sperm or mother’s egg (with age limits applying more to egg providers). Doctors will advise on a case-by-case basis. As a practical matter, if an intended mother is beyond typical childbearing age, using an egg donor is usually necessary.
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Genetic Contribution: While Georgian law doesn’t explicitly demand it, it is strongly recommended (and often implicitly expected) that at least one of the intended parents is the genetic parent of the child (again, for nationality reasons). Many embassies will require DNA tests to prove the link to one parent for issuing citizenship. So, if a couple is infertile on both sides (needing both egg and sperm donation), it’s wise to consult an attorney in your country first - some countries won’t recognize the child as yours if neither of you is genetically related. Most heterosexual couples pursuing surrogacy in Georgia will use the father’s sperm or the mother’s eggs (or both) unless medically impossible.
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Financial and Emotional Preparedness: Though not a formal “requirement,” agencies will expect that intended parents have the financial means to pay the program fees and the emotional stability to handle the process. You may be asked about your budget planning and support system. Georgia doesn’t require a psychological screening for intended parents, but being prepared for the stresses of international surrogacy is important for your own well-being.
When you sign up with a clinic or agency in Georgia, they will typically ask for copies of your passports, marriage certificate, and medical infertility proof right at the start. All foreign documents must be apostilled and translated to Georgian for official use. It’s a good idea to gather these documents early.
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Surrogate Mother Requirements and Selection in Georgia
Surrogate mothers in Georgia must meet strict eligibility criteria and undergo thorough screening. The process of selecting and matching a surrogate is handled by clinics or agencies with oversight to ensure the surrogate is physically and mentally fit for the role. Here are the key requirements and considerations:
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Age and Health: Surrogates must typically be between 21 and 35 years old. This age range balances physical health (optimal childbearing years) with maturity. Every surrogate candidate undergoes a comprehensive medical evaluation – including gynecological exams, ultrasounds, infectious disease screening, and general health checks – to confirm she can safely carry a pregnancy. Good overall health and no significant past pregnancy complications are essential. Surrogates should also have a healthy BMI and no chronic conditions like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension.
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Having Own Children: It is required that a surrogate has given birth to at least one healthy child of her own prior to becoming a surrogate. This demonstrates her fertility and helps ensure she understands the experience of pregnancy and childbirth. A woman who has never been pregnant is not accepted as a surrogate. Additionally, there should be no history of cesarean sections with complications or any condition in prior pregnancies that would contraindicate carrying another baby.
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Psychological Screening: Georgian agencies perform psychological evaluations to ensure the surrogate is mentally and emotionally prepared. Surrogates need to fully understand the process and be committed to relinquishing the baby at birth. Typically, a psychologist will assess that the candidate does not have untreated mental health issues, has a stable lifestyle, and strong support (many surrogates are married or have family support). Surrogates are also usually required to be non-smokers, no drug or alcohol abuse, and have no criminal record or history of child neglect.
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Legal Background: Georgian surrogates sign a contract and must have full legal capacity (not under guardianship, etc.). Agencies ensure the candidate has no prior legal issues concerning parental rights (for example, a woman who has lost custody of her own children or had serious legal trouble would be disqualified). If married, the surrogate’s husband typically must give written consent as well (to ensure he supports her involvement).
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Ethical Considerations & Informed Consent: Surrogates must give informed consent to all aspects of the surrogacy arrangement. This includes understanding the medical procedures (IVF, injections, possible C-section), the relinquishment of the child, and the terms of compensation. In Georgia, surrogacy agreements are legally binding, which protects both the surrogate and the intended parents. Surrogates cannot legally refuse to hand over the child as per the contract and law; however, a good agency will also foster a relationship of trust so that everyone is on the same page well before the birth.
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Compensation and Support: Surrogates in Georgia are compensated for their service since commercial surrogacy is legal. The current compensation ranges around $25,000–$30,000 USD per pregnancy on average, not including additional benefits (this may be structured as a base fee plus monthly stipend and bonus after delivery). This amount has increased recently, given the high demand and short supply of surrogates in Georgia. Surrogates also have all their pregnancy-related medical care covered, and usually receive allowances for maternity clothes, nutrition, and travel. They are provided a place to stay in Tbilisi in the final weeks if they live in a rural area, to ensure they are near the hospital when labor begins. The agency’s coordinators support surrogates throughout with regular check-ins and help with any issues (like scheduling appointments, etc.).
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Surrogate Shortage and Recruitment: It’s important to note that Georgia’s relatively small population (around 3.7 million) means the pool of potential surrogates is limited. With surrogacy demand rising (especially after Ukraine’s war), there is a shortage of local Georgian surrogates. Some agencies have started recruiting surrogates from outside Georgia – for example, women from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, or other Eurasian countries are brought to Georgia to carry pregnancies. While this can fill the gap, it raises concerns: these foreign surrogates might be even more economically vulnerable, and being far from their own families during pregnancy can be hard. There have been warnings about potential exploitation if surrogates are imported purely as a “band-aid” solution. Growing Families (a non-profit group) advises intended parents to be cautious if an agency offers a foreign surrogate and to verify that she is being treated ethically and is fully informed of her rights. Ideally, you want an agency that still has local surrogates or ensures any foreign surrogate is protected and willing. The wait times for matching with a surrogate are directly affected by this shortage - hence the 3–7 month average wait mentioned earlier.
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Surrogate’s Experience During Pregnancy: Culturally, many Georgian surrogates keep a low profile in their communities about being surrogates due to conservative attitudes. Agencies often advise them not to advertise their role to avoid social stigma. As an intended parent, understand that your surrogate may prefer privacy. She will be under medical supervision and typically continues her normal life (some may work until a certain point or care for their own children) with the agency ensuring she attends all check-ups. Surrogates are usually very committed – the compensation is often life-changing for their families (e.g., used to buy a home or fund their children’s education), so they have a strong incentive to follow medical guidance carefully.
Exit Process and Newborn Citizenship/Travel Documents
Bringing your newborn home from Georgia requires navigating the exit process, which involves obtaining the child’s citizenship and passport from your home country. While Georgia’s laws make you the legal parents instantly, the child is not Georgian and cannot leave on a Georgian passport. Here’s what to expect in this crucial final stage:
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Georgian Birth Certificate: First, ensure you obtain the Georgian birth certificate with your names as parents. This document is the foundation for everything that follows. As mentioned, it’s issued very quickly (often the next day after birth) by the Public Service Development Agency. It will list the place of birth (e.g., Tbilisi, Georgia), the child’s name, and your names as mother and father. There is no indication of surrogacy on this certificate – it looks like any normal birth record. You may want to get it apostilled by Georgian authorities to use abroad (an apostille is a form of international certification of a document’s authenticity). Also have it translated into your language if needed for your country’s processes.
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No Georgian Citizenship: Georgia does not grant citizenship to children born via surrogacy to foreign parents. Citizenship in Georgia is primarily by blood (jus sanguinis) and since neither parent is Georgian in this scenario, the baby isn’t Georgian. The baby will take on the nationality of the intended parents (once you complete the necessary steps with your country). Until then, the baby is effectively stateless in Georgia - but don’t worry, this is normal and temporary.
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Documents You Will Need: Typically: the Georgian birth certificate (apostilled and translated if needed), your marriage certificate (apostilled & translated), the surrogacy contract (notarized copy, often apostilled), your passports, and the baby’s passport application forms. Many embassies also want to see proof of the medical process – e.g. the IVF clinic’s certificate of embryo transfer and a letter confirming the surrogate birth. Georgian law provides an official “IVF/embryo transfer certificate” from the clinic which is used at birth registration; this is handy to show embassies too. Notarized English translations of all Georgian documents are a must for most consular officials who don’t read Georgian.
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Navigating Bureaucracy: It’s highly recommended to engage a local lawyer in Georgia to assist with paperwork, and also have a home-country lawyer on standby for guidance. The local lawyer can help with getting all necessary documents in order and even liaise with your embassy if needed. For example, they can help arrange the DNA test through an approved lab (the U.S. and UK require that the DNA sample be taken in presence of an embassy official or approved doctor). They can also obtain extra copies of documents and handle any hiccups. This support is often part of full-service agency packages, or you can hire an independent attorney.
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Georgian Exit Requirements: Georgian authorities generally allow the baby to depart once the foreign passport is issued, as long as the birth certificate lists the parents and both parents are traveling with the baby. According to Georgian law, a child born via surrogacy can leave the country only if both intended parents are on the birth certificate. Since that is the case here, you just show the birth certificate and baby’s passport at passport control. If only one parent is present for departure (say one had to go home early), you may need a notarized permission from the other parent to take the child out, so ideally plan to travel together.
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Time in Georgia with Baby: Parents often stay in a serviced apartment or short-term rental while awaiting documents. Tbilisi has a growing community of new parents in the same situation – you might meet others from your country doing the exit process. The climate is generally pleasant, the cost of living is low, and many find this bonding time valuable (albeit anxious to get home). Georgia allows foreigners to stay for up to a year visa-free, so you won’t overstay. The birth hospital might offer a private room for a couple days where you can room-in with the baby (especially if it’s a VIP maternity hospital). After that, be prepared to care for the newborn on your own; consider hiring a local baby nurse or doula if you feel you need help during the wait.
The exit process is usually a test of patience, but with the right preparation it is manageable. Make sure well in advance that you know your country’s requirements or reach out so Olga can help you find out all the details that will help with bringing your baby home! Reach out today!
Risks and Challenges to Be Aware Of
While Georgia is an attractive surrogacy destination, it’s important to approach the process with eyes open to potential risks and challenges. Being informed will help you mitigate these issues:
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Surrogate Availability and Wait Times: As noted, there is currently a shortage of surrogate mothers in Georgia relative to demand. This can translate into longer wait times to be matched with a suitable surrogate (often several months). The shortage has also led to agencies recruiting surrogates from abroad, which can carry additional uncertainties (e.g., will the foreign surrogate get a visa or encounter legal issues?). Intended parents need to be prepared for possible delays in timeline due to this bottleneck. That said, some agencies still have reliable access to local Georgian surrogates, and we collaborate closely with these providers to help minimize wait times where possible.
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Legal Uncertainty and Future Changes: Georgia’s surrogacy-friendly laws have remained stable for over two decades, but recent political discourse suggests possible tightening of regulations. In 2023, the Georgian government drafted a law to ban commercial surrogacy for foreigners and only allow altruistic surrogacy for Georgian citizens. While that law had not taken effect as of mid-2025 (Parliament did not implement it), the mere fact it was proposed means there’s a risk of legal changes in the future. A sudden policy change could, for instance, cut off new foreign surrogacy agreements or impose new requirements (like a court approval or a ban on compensation). This is a real, if hard to quantify, risk. How to mitigate it? Stay informed through reliable sources, start your process sooner rather than later if you’re committed (in case the window closes), and have contingency plans. Reputable agencies will also keep clients updated. Importantly, any ongoing pregnancy would almost certainly be honored even if laws change – typically new laws are not retroactive. Nonetheless, this backdrop means transparency is crucial: we will keep our intended parents updated on any legal shifts, and we encourage you to ask tough questions. Proceed with Georgia only if you’re comfortable with the current climate and have guidance to navigate changes if they occur.
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Embassy and Travel Hurdles: The post-birth paperwork can be a test of patience. Some embassies (especially those with no physical presence in Georgia) might be slow or require travel. For example, Australia and some other countries don’t have embassies in Tbilisi, meaning their citizens have to deal with a consulate in a nearby country, adding complexity. There’s a risk of bureaucratic delays, lost documents, or unexpected requirements (like extra DNA tests). These hurdles can extend your stay in Georgia significantly. You should be prepared emotionally and financially for an extended post-birth period, just in case. Keep in mind that rules for your country might change too (for instance, some countries have tightened their recognition of foreign surrogacy in recent years). Always double-check current procedures with your embassy before the birth. If things get complicated, having a lawyer or experienced advisor is critical – don’t be afraid to escalate or seek help from your consular officials. They may not “support” surrogacy officially, but they are still there to process your child’s citizenship documents.
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Medical and Health Considerations: While Georgia has good clinics, the overall healthcare system is not as robust as in some Western countries. The quality of medical care, especially outside a few top clinics in Tbilisi, may be lower (WHO rankings place Georgia’s health system well below Ukraine’s, for instance). There’s a small risk that a complicated pregnancy or neonatal issue might not get the very best care. Mitigation: work with a clinic known for high-quality care and choose a surrogate with a healthy obstetric history to reduce risk of complications. Also, intended parents should plan to be present for the birth if possible - not just for the joy of it, but to advocate for their baby’s care if needed.
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Variability in Agency/Clinic Quality: Not all surrogacy providers in Georgia are equal. There are many new agencies popping up, some run by people with limited experience, and there have been scams or unethical operators reported (e.g., agencies that vanished with money, or provided poor care to surrogates). Choosing the wrong middleman is a big risk – it could lead to financial loss or a failed journey. Always vet the agency or clinic thoroughly. Ask for success rates, talk to past clients, and check if they follow the law (for example, beware of any agency suggesting a “workaround” for singles or hinting at bribing officials - red flags!). It’s often safer to go with established clinics or those recommended by independent experts rather than just the cheapest option found online. Our service (The Surrogacy Insider) specifically helps clients evaluate and choose vetted providers to avoid these pitfalls – this independent vetting can save you from a nightmare scenario with an unreliable agency.
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Ethical Concerns: The surrogacy process inevitably raises ethical questions – exploitation of women, commodification of babies, etc. In Georgia, critics have pointed out the lack of formal regulatory oversight of agencies (hence the government’s push to tighten laws). As an intended parent, you should be mindful of the ethical dimension: ensure your surrogate is participating willingly and is adequately compensated, ensure you would be comfortable explaining your child’s birth story to them later, and treat everyone in the process with respect. There have been incidents internationally (like a scandal in Greece involving trafficked surrogates from multiple countries) that remind us how things can go wrong if unscrupulous actors are involved. Aligning with ethical, transparent professionals and being personally conscientious (like maintaining good communication and fulfilling all your obligations in the contract) is the best way to mitigate this.
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Geopolitical Factors: While Georgia is generally stable and peaceful, it borders some conflict regions and has its own political tensions. There is a non-zero risk of political unrest or changes that could, for example, slow down services or make travel difficult. Keep an eye on news (e.g., large protests or any safety advisories). Fortunately, Georgia allows visa-free entry for many – if something urgent happens (like you need to get there early), you can usually just hop on a plane without bureaucracy.
Independent Guidance:
How The Surrogacy Insider Can Help You
Embarking on an international surrogacy journey can be daunting – especially in a landscape dominated by agencies that may have their own agendas or limited scope.
The Surrogacy Insider, founded by Olga Pysana, offers an alternative: independent surrogacy guidance that is 100% on your side.
I am not a surrogacy agency or clinic; I’m a knowledgeable advisor who works for you, helping you navigate all your options with complete transparency and no sales spin BEFORE you commit to a single destination or a surrogacy agency.
Here’s how I (Olga) can support you:
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Country Selection Guidance: Unsure which country is the best fit for your circumstances? I will compare legal frameworks, costs, and timelines across multiple surrogacy destinations to find the right match for you. For example, if Georgia is an option, we’ll weigh it against places like the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Ghana, etc., considering your eligibility (marital status, budget, individual needs etc.). The goal is to ensure you start in a country that is safe and suitable – avoiding costly mistakes of pursuing a program that might fail due to legal or logistical issues in your situation.
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Agency and Clinic Assessment: Choosing the right agency or clinic in your chosen country is perhaps the most critical decision. I provide tailored questions and checklists to evaluate providers in Georgia (or elsewhere). With my insider knowledge, I can flag red flags and highlight reputable players. For instance, in Georgia I know which clinics have high success rates and which agencies treat surrogates ethically. I’ll empower you to interview potential agencies effectively – ensuring they are transparent about costs, surrogate sourcing, success rates, and contingency plans. This helps you avoid unreliable operators and pick a team you can trust.
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Budget Planning: Surrogacy budgeting can be complex with many hidden costs. I will help you understand the complete financial picture. We’ll outline all expected expenses, from big-ticket items down to smaller fees, so you aren’t caught off guard. I also assist with contingency planning – for example, budgeting extra for additional IVF cycles or emergency medical care, just in case. The result is a realistic budget that you can confidently prepare for, instead of unpleasant surprises. With Georgia’s rising surrogate fees and currency exchange considerations, my up-to-date insights ensure your budget is adequate for the current market.
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Professional Connections: Over the years, I’ve built a network of vetted professionals worldwide. Once you decide on Georgia or another country, I can connect you to trusted legal advisors, top-notch IVF clinics, reputable surrogacy agencies, as well as egg/sperm donor banks and even international shipment services for biological materials. All are organizations who have proven experience with cross-border arrangements. These introductions can save you time and give you peace of mind that you’re working with people who know what they’re doing. (For example, if you need a Georgian lawyer who speaks English and has helped UK parents, I know just the firm to refer to.)
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Contract and Package Review Preparation: Before you hire an attorney to review your surrogacy contract, I help you understand the full scope of the package you’re signing up for and how it translates into the legal agreement. We’ll break down the key elements—what’s actually included, what isn’t, where hidden costs might appear, and how responsibilities and timelines are defined in the contract. By clarifying these details in advance, you’ll be well-prepared to sit down with your lawyer or agency, ask the right questions, and negotiate confidently. This preparation ensures you understand both the legal and financial implications of the package, protects your interests (and the surrogate’s well-being), and often makes the formal legal review faster, more effective, and less expensive.
Throughout all these services, my role is to be your independent, unbiased ally. While I do receive a commission from some clinics or agencies when referrals are made, my recommendations are always based on what’s best for your unique situation, not on who pays the highest fee. My priority is—and always will be—your best possible outcome.
I also provide emotional support and practical guidance when it’s most needed. While I’m not involved in the day-to-day management of your journey, if a major issue arises, I’ll be there to help you assess the situation, explore your options, and guide you toward the best possible resolution.
By choosing The Surrogacy Insider, you gain the benefit of industry expertise without the pressure of an upsell. Think of it as having a personal consultant who knows the surrogacy world inside and out, helping you stay informed and empowered in every decision. Many of the pitfalls we’ve discussed—legal changes, unethical providers, hidden costs—can be avoided with the right guidance, and that’s exactly what I aim to provide.
Next Steps: Ready to Explore Surrogacy in Georgia?
Deciding on surrogacy – and choosing the country and team to help you – is a monumental decision. With the information above, you’re already more informed than many intended parents who dive in without fully understanding the landscape. If you’re considering Georgia or still weighing options, The Surrogacy Insider is here to help.
FAQ
Yes, in Georgia, surrogacy is absolutely legal. Their law permits surrogacy for heterosexual married couples, and the intended parents are recognized as the legal parents from birth.
Gestational surrogacy involves an embryo created via IVF, while traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate's egg, which is not allowed under Georgian law.
The total cost of surrogacy in Georgia can vary depending on the medical and legal services required, but it is typically more affordable than surrogacy in other countries.
Surrogacy in Georgia is available to heterosexual married couples who are medically unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy naturally. This eligibility ensures the surrogacy process is secure and well-regulated.
An independent consultant like myself provides unbiased, personalized guidance to intended parents before they choose a surrogacy destination and an agency, from the legalities to the logistics, ensuring a well-supported and informed decision.
