Is Surrogacy Legal in India? Process, Eligibility, and Cost

Surrogacy has become a vital reproductive option for couples struggling with infertility. In India, the practice of surrogacy is legally regulated under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. This law has redefined how surrogacy can be carried out, allowing only altruistic surrogacy and banning commercial surrogacy across the country. 

At Surrogacy Centre India, one of the best surrogacy centres in Delhi, we guide intended parents through a transparent, ethical, and fully legal surrogacy journey, in line with India’s latest regulations. 

Is Surrogacy Legal in India? 

Yes, surrogacy is legal in India, but only altruistic surrogacy is allowed under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. Commercial surrogacy – where a surrogate mother is paid beyond medical and insurance expenses – is completely prohibited. 

Altruistic surrogacy refers to a surrogacy arrangement where a surrogate mother carries a child without receiving monetary compensation other than essential medical expenses and insurance. This model promotes ethical practices and is intended to protect the dignity of the surrogate. 

What is the Process for Altruistic Surrogacy in India? 

The legal and medical process for altruistic surrogacy includes: 

1. Consultation with a Registered Surrogacy Centre
   Begin your journey at a licensed clinic like Surrogacy Centre India for expert medical and legal guidance.
2. Fertility Evaluation & Medical Screening
   Intended parents undergo fertility assessments to determine if surrogacy is a viable option.
3. Documentation & Legal Approval
   Obtain:
   • Certificate of Essentiality
   • Certificate of Eligibility
     These are issued by the appropriate authority after verification of eligibility criteria.
4. Surrogate Selection
   The surrogate must be a close relative of the couple and meet specific eligibility norms (explained below).
5. Embryo Transfer & Pregnancy Care
   Once legal clearances are complete, IVF is initiated, and the embryo is transferred to the surrogate.
6. Birth & Legal Custody
   After the child’s birth, legal procedures are completed to establish parentage.

 Who is Eligible for Surrogacy in India?

Intended Parents: 

• Must be Indian citizens and a legally married couple (male and female).
• Minimum 5 years of marriage is required.
• The woman must be 23–50 years, and the man 26–55 years.
• Must be medically certified as infertile.
• Should not have any biological, adopted, or surrogate child (with exceptions for disability or life-threatening conditions).

 Surrogate Mother: 

• Must be a close relative of the intended couple.
• Should be married, with at least one biological child.
• Age: 25–35 years.
• Can act as a surrogate only once in her lifetime.
• Must be medically and psychologically fit for surrogacy.

 What is the Cost of Altruistic Surrogacy in India? 

While commercial surrogacy is banned, altruistic surrogacy still involves certain medical and legal costs. At Surrogacy Centre India, we offer affordable surrogacy package in Delhi that include: 

• IVF procedures
• Medical tests and screenings
• Pregnancy care for the surrogate
• Legal documentation and approvals
• Delivery and newborn care

 The cost of altruistic surrogacy in India typically ranges from ₹4 to ₹6 lakhs, depending on the medical condition and requirements of the couple. Since no financial compensation is paid to the surrogate (except medical expenses), this model is more cost-effective and legally compliant. 

Why Choose Surrogacy Centre India? 

• Certified and licensed under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act
• Compassionate team of fertility experts and legal advisors
• Complete support from evaluation to birth
• One of the best surrogacy centres in Delhi
• Affordable and ethical surrogacy care

Conclusion 

Surrogacy is a ray of hope for many infertile couples, and with the implementation of the new surrogacy law in India, it has become a regulated and compassionate medical service. By opting for altruistic surrogacy, intended parents can experience the joy of parenthood while ensuring dignity, legality, and care for the surrogate. 

If you're looking to start your journey, connect with Surrogacy Centre India – your trusted partner for affordable and legal surrogacy in Delhi.