The path to creating a family can take many routes, and for some, the journey leads to Eastern Europe. Despite the ongoing military conflict, many intended parents still consider Ukraine for their family-building journey. The unique legal framework and established professional services continue to attract international visitors, though today's circumstances require additional planning. Here's guidance to help navigate this significant life decision effectively.
Understanding the Ukrainian Surrogacy Landscape
Before diving into specific recommendations, it's important to comprehend why Ukraine remains a sought-after destination despite current challenges. The country's progressive infrastructure around surrogacy offers several advantages:
Clear legal recognition of intended parents' rights
Established medical facilities with extensive experience
Relatively affordable programs compared to Western alternatives
No requirement for court proceedings to establish parentage
Birth certificates issued directly with intended parents' names
These factors continue to make Ukraine an appealing option, though the practical aspects have evolved significantly since early 2022. Working with providers who understand these nuances is crucial for a smooth experience.
Here are some things for you to consider when proceeding with surrogacy in Ukraine in 2025
Choose an Agency That Recruits Surrogates from the Western Part of Ukraine
When researching surrogacy service providers, pay particular attention to where the surrogates are located in Ukraine. The western territories of the country, including cities like Lviv and Uzhhorod, have remained comparatively stable throughout the challenges of recent years. These areas experience fewer security concerns and offer a more predictable environment for everyone undergoing surrogacy in Ukraine during the war.
Important questions to ask surrogacy agencies you are speaking to:
Do they work with surrogates from the western regions?
Where will the surrogate reside throughout the pregnancy?
Will she stay near the clinic which monitors pregnancy or will she need to travel for appointments ?
Is she originally from this region, or has she relocated with the war?
Does she live with her family, or are her relatives residing elsewhere?
Understanding these details helps create realistic expectations and improves planning during your surrogacy journey.
Consider Birth Locations Near the EU Border
Consider agencies offering services in cities close to European Union borders. Locations like Lviv and Uzhhorod, which neighbor Poland and Slovakia respectively, simplify both entry and exit when you travel for the birth of the child. This proximity can reduce travel challenges and provide additional peace of mind should rapid departure become necessary after your child arrives—a key consideration for in the current circumstances.
Find out if your chosen agency maintains established relationships with medical facilities and healthcare professionals in these border regions from the beginning of your journey to make sure they can organise a smooth process for you on the ground and avoid potential delays with birth registration and preparation of the paperwork that is necessary to leave Ukraine with your baby(ies) post birth .
Egg Donation and Sperm Freezing: Simplifying Your First Visit
For many intended parents, egg donation is a key part of the surrogacy process. If you are planning to undergo a surrogacy journey in Ukraine with egg donation consider freezing sperm in your home country and shipping it to Ukraine for embryo creation. By doing this, you can avoid an extra trip to Ukraine for your first visit, which can be costly and time-consuming with the travel complexities of today.
Additionally, all the required documents, such as your marriage certificate, medical letter, and Power of Attorney, can be handled remotely. Make sure to send the originals to your agency in Ukraine ahead of time.
For those using their own genetic material, several pathways exist:
Create embryos domestically and ship them to Ukraine
Begin hormonal stimulation in your home country and only travel to Ukraine for the final stages before egg retrieval
For those with low AMH levels or who don’t produce a high number of mature oocytes, using fresh eggs in Ukraine can often yield better results instead of freezing them in your home country and shipping them for ICSI to Ukraine.
When shipping biological materials, consider:
Working with a specialized medical courier who hand deliver human biomaterial
Understanding the full list of documents required to ship human gametes internationally
Maintaining communication channels with both sending and receiving clinics
Plan Your Travel Logistics Into Ukraine for the Birth In Advance
Due to current transportation limitations and absence of direct flights into Ukraine, most families fly to neighboring countries such as Poland, Slovakia, or Romania, then arrange private ground transportation across the border to reach their destination city in Ukraine.
It’s important to also account for the time you’ll need to stay in Ukraine post-birth. The process of obtaining the birth certificate, apostillization, and securing your baby’s passport through your embassy can take time. Ensure you know the approximate duration for each step so you can plan your stay accordingly.
Understanding each step's timeline helps you plan your stay appropriately.
Your post-birth timeline may include:
Hospital discharge (typically 3 days after birth)
Birth certificate application and issuance (5-7 business days)
Apostille process for birth certificate (3-7 business days)
Embassy appointment for passport application (varies by country)
Passport issuance (varies significantly by country of citizenship)
Confirm whether embassy appointments must occur in Kyiv or if a diplomatic mission in another country can process your documents. This knowledge prevents unexpected travel complications.
Some countries have modified their processes in response to the situation in Ukraine, potentially allowing:
Remote interviews for passport applications
Document processing through consulates in neighboring countries
Emergency travel documentation options
Financial Planning for Wartime Surrogacy
The economic realities of surrogacy during the war include unique considerations:
Currency fluctuations affecting the overall program costs
Additional expenses for enhanced surrogate support and security including relocations, private transfers, etc
Increased travel costs due to indirect routing requirements
Emergency funds allocation for unexpected contingencies
Prioritizing Safety Measures
During your stay, ensure your accommodation—whether hotel or apartment—provides access to designated shelter areas. Download mobile applications that provide real-time safety alerts, allowing for prompt response if necessary. Selecting locations that offer both comfort and security provides peace of mind while you await your child's arrival.
Additional practical safety measures include:
Registering with your country's embassy before arrival
Maintaining copies of all important documents in digital and physical formats
Establishing reliable local transportation arrangements in advance
Identifying medical facilities that remain operational during emergency situations
Creating communication protocols with family members at home
Emotional Preparation and Support Systems
The emotional journey of surrogacy in conflict zones introduces additional stressors beyond those typically associated with surrogacy. Building resilience through:
Connection with other families pursuing similar paths
Professional counseling is familiar with reproductive journeys
Transparent discussions about fears and concerns with your support network
Maintaining flexibility while honoring your emotional needs
Celebrating milestones throughout the process
Many intended parents find that working with a dedicated consultant provides not just practical guidance but emotional anchoring during uncertain times. These relationships often extend beyond the initial engagement as you navigate your surrogacy journey.
Concluding Thoughts
While surrogacy in Ukraine during the war presents unique considerations, the combination of legal frameworks and relative affordability compared to other European options continues to attract international families. Thorough preparation and understanding of the nuances of today's realities will enhance your experience.
For personalised guidance on your family-building journey, establishing direct Contacts with experts who understand the nuances of today's Ukrainian landscape is essential. Professional consultation can help you navigate each step with confidence. Independent consultants like The Surrogacy Insider offer specialised knowledge that can be invaluable during these complex processes, especially if you are considering surrogacy amid the Ukraine war.
