Surrogacy has become a popular option for couples and individuals struggling with infertility or those who cannot carry a pregnancy to term. For Indian intended parents, the U.S. has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for surrogacy due to its advanced medical facilities, clear legal framework, and high success rates. But can Indians actually pursue surrogacy in the USA? The answer is a resounding yes! Here’s everything you need to know about surrogacy in the U.S. for Indian parents.
Why Choose the U.S. for Surrogacy?
The U.S. is a global leader in reproductive medicine and surrogacy. Here are some key reasons why Indian parents choose the U.S.:
-
Legal Protection: U.S. surrogacy laws are well-defined and protect the rights of intended parents. In most states, pre-birth orders allow parents to be listed on the birth certificate directly, eliminating legal complications.
-
Advanced Medical Facilities: The U.S. boasts world-class IVF clinics and experienced fertility specialists, ensuring higher success rates for surrogacy and IVF treatments.
-
Indian Egg Donors: Many U.S. agencies offer access to Indian egg donors, ensuring cultural and genetic alignment for Indian parents.
-
No Legal Hurdles in India: Since the baby is born in the U.S., Indian parents avoid the complex legal challenges associated with surrogacy in India, such as adoption or parentage disputes.
How Does Surrogacy Work in the U.S. for Indians?
The surrogacy process in the U.S. is straightforward and well-organized:
-
Choose a Surrogacy Agency: Reputable agencies guide you through the entire process, from matching with a surrogate to legal and medical arrangements.
-
Select a Surrogate: Surrogates in the U.S. undergo rigorous medical, psychological, and background checks to ensure they are fit for the process.
-
Legal Contracts: Legal agreements are signed to protect the rights of all parties involved, including intended parents, surrogates, and egg donors.
-
Medical Process: The IVF and embryo transfer process is handled by experienced fertility specialists, ensuring the best possible outcome.
-
Birth and Citizenship: The baby is born in the U.S. and automatically receives U.S. citizenship. Indian parents can then apply for an Indian passport or OCI card to bring the baby back to India.
Addressing Common Concerns
Indian parents often have specific questions about surrogacy in the U.S.:
-
Can we use an Indian surrogate? No, Indian surrogacy laws do not allow international intended parents to use Indian surrogates. However, U.S. surrogates are highly qualified and provide a secure option.
-
Can my baby get Indian citizenship? Yes, your baby can get Indian citizenship through an Indian passport or OCI card.
-
How do we bring the baby back to India? With the U.S. birth certificate and passport, you can apply for an Indian visa or OCI card to bring your baby home.
-
What if we can’t travel to the U.S. for embryo transfer? In some cases, you can send your genetic material to the U.S. clinic, and your presence may not be required for the embryo transfer.
Conclusion
Surrogacy in the U.S. offers Indian parents a safe, legal, and reliable path to parenthood. With advanced medical facilities, clear legal protections, and the availability of Indian egg donors, the U.S. is an ideal destination for surrogacy. While the process may seem complex, reputable surrogacy agencies provide end-to-end support, making the journey smooth and stress-free. For Indian parents dreaming of starting or expanding their family, surrogacy in the U.S. is a viable and rewarding option.