Step-by-Step Process to Become a Surrogate in Canada

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most selfless and meaningful choices a woman can make. For intended parents struggling with infertility or unable to carry a pregnancy, surrogates bring the ultimate gift of life. In Canada, surrogacy is legal but carefully regulated under the Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA), which allows altruistic surrogacy only. That means surrogates can be reimbursed for pregnancy-related expenses but cannot be paid for their service.

At Indian Egg Donors, we work with women who feel called to help others through this remarkable journey. With our physician-led program, comprehensive support, and ethical guidance, we make sure surrogates are well cared for every step of the way.

If you’re considering this path, here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a surrogate in Canada, with insights into the process, expectations, and how Indian Egg Donors supports you throughout.

Understanding Surrogacy in Canada

Before beginning, it’s essential to know what Canadian surrogacy looks like:

• Altruistic only: You won’t receive payment, but you will be reimbursed for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
• Eligibility matters: You must be at least 21, in good health, and have had at least one uncomplicated pregnancy.
• Legal protections: Contracts are drafted to ensure your rights and the rights of the intended parents are safeguarded.

For many women, the motivation comes not from money but from the joy of helping a family achieve their dream. To learn more about surrogates and their background, explore our dedicated page on Who Are the Surrogates.

Reflect on Your Motivation and Readiness

Surrogacy is a deeply personal decision. Ask yourself:

• Am I emotionally ready to carry a child for someone else?
• Do I have the support of my family and partner?
• Am I willing to undergo medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments?

At Indian Egg Donors, we encourage potential surrogates to take time to reflect, ask questions, and fully understand the process. Our team provides resources and emotional guidance from the very beginning.

Initial Consultation and Application

Once you’re ready, you can apply through our Become a Surrogate in Canada page. You’ll fill out an application and schedule a consultation with our physician-led team.

During this stage, we review:

• Your medical history and previous pregnancies
• Your lifestyle habits (non-smoking, stable living environment)
• Your expectations and preferences for the journey

This consultation ensures transparency and helps establish trust between you and our team from the start.

Medical, Psychological, and Lifestyle Screening

To protect your health and the health of the baby, surrogates go through comprehensive screening:

• Medical tests: Bloodwork, hormone testing, ultrasounds, and reproductive health checks.
• Psychological evaluation: Ensures you’re emotionally prepared for the process and supported in your decision.
• Lifestyle verification: Confirming healthy habits and family stability.

This screening stage is essential. At Indian Egg Donors, we follow strict protocols in line with Canadian law to ensure safety and compatibility.

Matching with Intended Parents

Once approved, you’ll be matched with intended parents. Our goal is to connect surrogates and parents who share compatible values, communication styles, and expectations.

Unlike other agencies, Indian Egg Donors provides personalized matching supported by physicians who understand both the medical and emotional aspects of the journey. Many surrogates and parents form lasting bonds, often maintaining connections even after birth.

Drafting Legal Agreements

Canadian surrogacy law requires a written legal agreement between surrogate and intended parents before any medical procedures begin. This contract covers:

• Expense reimbursement policies
• Responsibilities during pregnancy
• Plans for medical decisions and communication
• Custody transfer after birth

We work with specialized lawyers who understand surrogacy law across Canadian provinces, ensuring your rights and protections are fully outlined.

Medical Preparation and Embryo Transfer

After legal agreements are finalized, you’ll begin medical preparation under the guidance of a fertility clinic. This may include hormone treatments to prepare your uterus for embryo transfer.

• The embryos are created via IVF, often with the help of egg donation or sperm donation, depending on the intended parents’ needs.
• The embryo is transferred in a quick, minimally invasive procedure.

Our team ensures you receive compassionate medical care and support during this stage.

Pregnancy and Ongoing Support

Once pregnant, you’ll experience a typical pregnancy with additional monitoring from your fertility clinic and care team. Surrogates receive:

• Regular medical check-ups and ultrasounds
• Emotional support from counselors and peer groups
• Expense reimbursements for maternity wear, travel, and other costs

At Indian Egg Donors, we believe surrogates deserve the highest level of care, which is why our physician-led approach prioritizes your health and well-being.

Birth and Legal Transfer of Custody

When the baby is born, the intended parents assume custody immediately. Legal parentage is established through provincial processes, which may include parentage declarations or adoption, depending on the province.

The surrogate does not have parental rights, and this clarity ensures a smooth transition for both parties.

Post-Birth Support and Reflection

Even after delivery, Indian Egg Donors continues to support surrogates through:

• Final reimbursement processing
• Postnatal medical check-ups
• Emotional and psychological counseling
• Guidance if you wish to connect with a surrogate support community

Many surrogates describe this as one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives—knowing they’ve helped create a family where hope once seemed out of reach.

Why Work with Indian Egg Donors?

Choosing to become a surrogate is a monumental decision. With Indian Egg Donors, you benefit from:

• Physician-led care ensures medical safety and ethical standards.
• Legal and emotional guidance throughout the journey.
• Personalized matching with intended parents who share your values.
• A commitment to transparency, compassion, and respect for surrogates.

We’re more than an agency—we’re your partners in this life-changing experience.

FAQs

Q. Can I be paid to be a surrogate in Canada?

Ans : No, Canadian law only allows altruistic surrogacy. You won’t be paid but will be reimbursed for reasonable pregnancy-related expenses like travel, maternity wear, and lost wages (with medical documentation).

Q. What expenses are covered for surrogates?

Ans : Reimbursable costs include travel, childcare, maternity clothing, medical care, medications, and sometimes lost wages if bed rest is prescribed. All expenses must be documented with receipts and approved within your surrogacy agreement.

Q. How long does it take to be matched with intended parents?

Ans : Matching can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on compatibility and preferences. At Indian Egg Donors, our large network often helps surrogates connect with intended parents faster than other programs.

Q. What are the medical requirements to qualify as a surrogate?

Ans : You must be at least 21, in good health, have had at least one healthy pregnancy, and pass medical and psychological evaluations. Non-smoking and stable living environments are also required for eligibility.

Q. What happens legally after the baby is born?

Ans : The intended parents become the legal parents after birth. Depending on the province, a parentage declaration or adoption process may be required. Surrogates do not retain parental rights under Canadian surrogacy law.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a surrogate in Canada is a courageous and compassionate act—one that transforms lives and builds families. With the guidance of Indian Egg Donors, you’ll have the medical, legal, and emotional support needed to walk this journey with confidence.

If you’re ready to explore this path or want to learn more, visit our Become a Surrogate in Canada page today.