The Cost of Surrogacy in Georgia

Surrogacy can be a dream come true for many families, offering a path to parenthood that might otherwise be out of reach. Georgia, a beautiful country in Eastern Europe, has become one of the top choices for surrogacy due to its supportive legal framework and more affordable costs compared to Western countries. However, like any major undertaking, surrogacy in Georgia involves a range of expenses—some obvious, and some that are more unexpected. Are you curious about how much surrogacy in Georgia might cost? Or looking for ways to keep your expenses manageable? To help you feel prepared, we’ll take a closer look at the full cost of surrogacy in Georgia, including hidden expenses, and share some helpful budgeting tips so you can manage your journey confidently.

Breaking Down the Surrogacy Costs in Georgia: What to Expect

To make things easier to understand, let’s break down the costs of surrogacy in Georgia into direct costs and hidden costs. Knowing what to expect upfront can help you budget effectively and reduce surprises along the way. Direct costs include compensation for the surrogate, medical and legal fees, and agency services. Meanwhile, indirect costs involve travel, accommodation, and post-birth legal processes. 

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Direct Expenses

The direct costs of surrogacy are those which you would normally expect—fees that cover everything from the surrogate’s compensation to legal support. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Surrogate Compensation

The cost of surrogacy starts with the compensation for the surrogate mother. This payment not only recognizes her commitment and time but also provides for other needs like maternity clothes, medical recovery, and any special procedures needed. This can be one of the highest components of the overall cost. While the exact cost can vary, most surrogates in Georgia receive a base compensation between $12,000 and $35,000. However, additional compensation may be added for certain medical procedures, such as a C-section if required.

2. Medical Expenses

Medical expenses cover a lot, from the IVF process (including egg retrieval and embryo transfer) to prenatal care and delivery. They also include all necessary medical appointments, lab tests, medications, and any special procedures that may be needed along the way. Additionally, if you need to freeze embryos, do genetic testing, or provide neonatal care, these add to the costs. Considering any additional procedures, typical IVF costs range from $5,000 to $10,000.

3. Agency Fees

Agencies play a crucial role in helping intended parents navigate surrogacy smoothly. Agency fees typically cover the surrogate matching process, coordination of medical and legal services, and general support for the surrogate and intended parents. These services are essential to ensure the surrogacy journey is well-managed. Anavara provides transparent cost breakdowns and full-service support which can prevent unexpected costs.

4. Legal Fees

The legal aspect of surrogacy in Georgia is critical even though Georgia’s surrogacy laws are favorable to intended parents. Legal fees cover the preparation and review of contracts, establishing parental rights, and navigating any legal issues that may arise. These costs vary but are essential for ensuring everything is by the book. If you’re from a country where citizenship documentation requires additional paperwork, further legal expenses may be necessary. 

5. Travel Expenses 

The cost of flight tickets and visa fees vary from country to country. Always budget for extended trips or multiple flights in case you have to visit Georgia more than once during the surrogacy process.  

6. Psychological Support and Screening 

Surrogacy can be an emotional process for everyone involved. Many agencies require psychological screening for both the intended parents and surrogate. This step helps everyone understand the emotional aspects of surrogacy and ensures all parties are prepared for the journey ahead. Psychological exams are designed to ensure everyone’s readiness for the process and can cost between $300 to $1,000. 

7. Insurance Costs

Insurance coverage is a critical, often underestimated expense. Depending on the surrogate’s existing health insurance, additional medical insurance may be needed to cover specific treatments and delivery for the surrogate. Insurance for the newborn is also often necessary, especially if special care is required after birth. 

8. Logistical and Administrative Costs

In Georgia, certain logistical and administrative fees are often part of the package but can add unexpected costs if not covered by the agency. Logistical and administrative costs include document notarization, translation services, local travel for medical visits and administrative tasks. Most agencies take care of these services, but they still contribute to the overall budget. 

Want help budgeting for your surrogacy journey? Reach out to Anavara for a detailed and transparent cost breakdown.

Hidden Expenses to Watch Out For in Surrogacy in Georgia

While the direct expenses may seem clear, some hidden costs in surrogacy may catch intended parents by surprise. Understanding these will help you plan a more accurate budget. These are some common hidden expenses to prepare for.

1. Citizenship and Legal Documentation for Your Child

Once your child is born, you will need to handle citizenship and passport applications. Additional legal fees may be required to secure citizenship for the baby. These can add up depending on your home country’s regulations, ranging from $500 to $2,000. It’s important to factor these post-birth expenses into your budget. 

2. Unexpected Medical Procedures

Occasionally, extra medical procedures may be needed that aren’t included in the original plan. These might include things like:

• C-Section Costs: If there is no medical indication but the intended parents request a C-section, they will need to cover this extra expense.
• Amniocentesis or NIPT Testing: Costs range from $800 to $1,000.
• Embryo Genetic Testing (PGS/NGS): Depending on the number of embryos, these tests can range from $1,000 to $5,000. 
• Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) cost ranges from $700 to $1,000
• Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) costs range from $2,000 to $2,500 

4. Storage Costs for Biological Material

For parents who choose to freeze extra embryos, storage fees usually apply monthly. Once the baby is born, there are often storage fees for leftover embryos or sperm. These costs are generally around $30 to $50 per month in Georgia. 

5. NICU Costs

Sometimes, newborns may require care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The cost for NICU services can range from $150 to $300 per day. 

Although these expenses are rare, it’s a good idea to budget for them as a precaution.

Budgeting Tips for a Successful Surrogacy Process in Georgia

Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment, but careful budgeting can ease the journey. Here are some tips to help you create a comprehensive budget and avoid financial strain. 

1. Create an All-Inclusive Budget Plan

Prepare for all potential and direct costs, including hidden expenses and unexpected costs. By having a comprehensive budget, you can minimize surprises. Always keep a financial cushion of at least 10-15% extra for unexpected medical or administrative needs. 

2. Choose the Right Agency

Selecting a trusted agency that offers transparent pricing is crucial. A reputable agency can help you navigate the process smoothly without hidden fees, providing peace of mind throughout your journey. This helps you plan more accurately and avoid any last-minute surprises. Anavara’s experienced team ensures a seamless process, allowing you to focus on the joy of building your family. 

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3. Consider Payment Plans and Financing Options

Many agencies offer flexible payment plans to help make the surrogacy process more affordable. Negotiating a plan can help you distribute the financial burden over time. 

4. Explore Financing Options

Look into various options such as personal loans, specialized fertility loans or other financial products designed for family-building needs. Always read the fine print to understand interest rates and repayment terms.

5. Set Up a Dedicated Surrogacy Fund

Consider creating a special savings account just for surrogacy-related expenses. Regular contributions to this account can cover unexpected costs, giving you more stability and making financial planning smoother.

6. Plan Your Travel in Advance

Traveling to Georgia may be required at different stages of the surrogacy journey. Early booking for flights and accommodations can help you secure better rates. The Anavara team can help you facilitate this process. Look for extended-stay hotels or rental apartments, as these often offer better rates for longer stays. 

7. Budget for Post-Birth Costs

Remember to budget for post-birth expenses, such as preparing legal documents and obtaining your baby’s passport. Preparing these in advance will save you time and money later. 

Planning every aspect of your journey carefully can save you both money and stress. Talk to our experts at Anavara about how we can support you from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Surrogacy in Georgia provides a wonderful opportunity for intended parents to start or grow their family in a supportive and legally secure environment. However, the journey involves many costs, both expected and unexpected. By understanding all potential expenses and planning accordingly, you can enjoy a smoother journey to parenthood without unnecessary financial stress.

Choosing Anavara, which is known for transparency and client support, can make all the difference. Remember, a well-prepared budget can make your dream of having a child through surrogacy in Georgia an exciting reality rather than a stressful experience.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Anavara today to learn how we can help you navigate your surrogacy journey, offering support every step of the way.