Surrogacy for Foreigners in India: Understanding the New Altruistic Surrogacy Law

Surrogacy has given countless couples across the world the gift of parenthood. India was once among the most preferred destinations for international surrogacy because of its advanced medical care and affordable treatment options. However, with the introduction of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, the legal framework for surrogacy in India has changed completely. Today, only altruistic surrogacy is allowed, and foreign nationals are not eligible to pursue surrogacy within India. At Surrogacy Centre India, we guide couples through these updated laws and offer alternative fertility solutions with transparency and compassion.

What is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy is a process where a woman (the surrogate mother) carries and delivers a baby for intended parents without any monetary compensation. The surrogate is only reimbursed for medical expenses and provided insurance coverage during pregnancy. This form of surrogacy is based on compassion and family support, rather than commercial gain.

The new surrogacy law in India bans commercial surrogacy, which previously allowed payment to surrogates beyond medical costs. This ensures that surrogacy remains ethical, transparent, and focused on genuine medical needs.

Who Can Opt for Altruistic Surrogacy in India?

According to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, the following criteria must be met for a surrogacy arrangement in India:

1. Only Indian heterosexual married couples can opt for surrogacy.
2. The couple must have been married for at least five years.
3. The intended wife must be medically certified as infertile or unable to carry a pregnancy.
4. The surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intended couple, a married woman aged 25–35 years, and should have at least one biological child.
5. The surrogate can only act as a surrogate once in her lifetime.

These conditions are designed to prevent exploitation and maintain ethical standards in surrogacy practices.

Can Foreigners Opt for Surrogacy in India?

No. The new surrogacy law prohibits foreigners, NRIs, OCIs, and PIOs from undergoing surrogacy in India. The process is strictly limited to Indian citizens meeting the legal and medical requirements. This restriction ensures legal clarity and the protection of surrogate mothers’ rights within India.

However, foreign couples can still benefit from India’s expertise in reproductive medicine. Surrogacy Centre India provides fertility consultations, IVF treatments, and medical evaluations that help intended parents explore legal surrogacy options in countries where it is permitted.

How Surrogacy Centre India Supports Intended Parents

At Surrogacy Centre India, we prioritize ethics, safety, and patient trust. While surrogacy for foreigners in India is restricted, our team helps couples with:

• Fertility assessments and IVF procedures
• Legal guidance on Indian surrogacy regulations
• Counseling and emotional support
• Connections to international surrogacy programs (in legally permitted countries)

Our mission is to help every couple find the right path to parenthood — within the boundaries of law and with utmost compassion.

Conclusion

Under India’s new altruistic surrogacy law, only Indian married couples are eligible for surrogacy, ensuring that the process remains ethical and regulated. While foreigners can no longer pursue surrogacy in India, they can still access world-class fertility treatments and expert advice at Surrogacy Centre India. With our experienced team and patient-centered approach, we continue to guide intended parents with care, integrity, and hope on their journey to parenthood.

Pros and Cons of the Altruistic Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021

Altruistic surrogacy has become a widely discussed and accepted option for many couples unable to conceive naturally. Unlike commercial surrogacy, altruistic surrogacy involves a surrogate mother who carries the child without any financial gain, except for medical and pregnancy-related expenses. At Surrogacy Centre India, this practice is conducted under ethical and legal guidelines, ensuring a safe and transparent process for all involved.

Pros of Altruistic Surrogacy:

1. Legal and Ethical Acceptance: Under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, altruistic surrogacy is the only legal form of surrogacy allowed in India, ensuring ethical practices.
2. Emotional Bond: Since the surrogate is often a close relative or family friend, there is a sense of trust, understanding, and emotional support throughout the journey.
3. Cost-Effective: As there is no commercial payment involved, the overall cost of altruistic surrogacy is much lower than that of commercial surrogacy.

Cons of Altruistic Surrogacy:

1. Emotional Challenges: The surrogate or intended parents may face emotional complexities during and after pregnancy.
2. Limited Availability: Finding a willing surrogate among relatives or friends can be difficult.
3. Legal Formalities: The process involves strict eligibility and documentation as per Indian surrogacy law.

For guidance and support, consult a trusted surrogacy centre in India to understand the process, legalities, and emotional aspects of altruistic surrogacy.

Surrogacy Centre India – where care, trust, and parenthood begin.

What Are the Possible Risks and Side Effects of IVF?

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is one of the most successful fertility treatments that has helped countless couples achieve parenthood. While IVF offers hope, it’s natural to wonder about the possible risks and side effects associated with the procedure. At Surrogacy Centre India, a best IVF centre in Delhi, fertility experts ensure every patient is well-informed, safe, and supported throughout their IVF journey.

Common Side Effects of IVF

Most side effects of IVF are mild and temporary. They often occur due to fertility medications and hormonal changes. Common side effects include:

• Mild abdominal bloating or cramping
• Breast tenderness
• Mood swings or fatigue
• Spotting after embryo transfer
• Temporary weight gains due to hormonal stimulation

These symptoms usually subside on their own and do not affect the overall success of treatment.

Possible Risks of IVF

While IVF is considered safe, certain risks may occur in rare cases. These include:

1. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS):
   Some women may experience swollen, painful ovaries due to excessive hormone response. At Surrogacy Centre India, doctors carefully monitor each cycle to minimize this risk.
2. Multiple Pregnancy:
   Transferring multiple embryos increases the chance of twins or triplets, which may lead to pregnancy complications. Your fertility specialist will guide you on the safest number of embryos to transfer.
3. Ectopic Pregnancy:
   In rare cases, the embryo may implant outside the uterus. Early monitoring and medical attention help detect and manage this risk promptly.
4. Emotional Stress:
   The IVF process can be emotionally and physically demanding. Counseling and emotional support are vital parts of fertility care at Surrogacy Centre India.

Why Choose Surrogacy Centre India?

At Surrogacy Centre India every treatment plan is designed with safety, care, and compassion. The team uses advanced IVF technology, personalized monitoring, and emotional support to reduce risks and improve success rates.

Conclusion

While IVF carries some risks, most are manageable under expert supervision. At Surrogacy Centre India, couples receive world-class fertility care in a safe and supportive environment — making the dream of parenthood a beautiful reality.

What Lifestyle Changes Should Be Made Before Starting IVF?

Starting your IVF journey is a major step toward parenthood, and preparing your body and mind beforehand can make a big difference in treatment outcomes. At Surrogacy Centre India, recognized as one of the best IVF centres in Delhi, we emphasize the importance of healthy lifestyle changes to improve your chances of conception and a successful pregnancy.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Both underweight and overweight conditions can affect hormonal balance and egg or sperm quality. Aim for a healthy BMI (18.5–24.9) through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. Losing even 5–10% of excess body weight can significantly boost fertility and IVF success rates.

2. Eat a Balanced, Fertility-Friendly Diet

Your diet plays a vital role in reproductive health. Include foods rich in:

• Antioxidants: Fruits like berries, oranges, and vegetables like spinach help protect eggs and sperm from oxidative stress.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, and olive oil support hormone production.
• Protein and Iron: Lean meats, fish, and legumes improve overall health and energy.
  Avoid excessive processed foods, refined sugars, and trans fats, as they may negatively affect fertility.

3. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking can damage eggs and sperm DNA, while alcohol may disrupt hormone levels and reduce fertility. It’s recommended to quit smoking at least three months before IVF and limit or avoid alcohol altogether during treatment to enhance IVF outcomes.

4. Manage Stress and Improve Sleep

Emotional well-being is as important as physical health. Practice stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Try to get 7–8 hours of sleep daily, as poor sleep can interfere with hormone balance and ovulation cycles.

5. Exercise Moderately

Regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation, hormone balance, and mood. However, avoid excessive or high-intensity workouts, as they can negatively affect fertility and ovulation. Focus on light exercises such as walking, swimming, or yoga.

6. Avoid Excessive Caffeine and Toxins

Limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day (about one cup of coffee). Also, reduce exposure to environmental toxins found in plastics, pesticides, and cosmetics that may contain harmful chemicals affecting fertility.

7. Take Prenatal and Fertility Supplements

Under your doctor’s guidance, consider supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients enhance egg and sperm quality, preparing your body for a healthy pregnancy.

8. Get Regular Medical Check-Ups

Before starting IVF, ensure that both partners undergo complete medical evaluations. At Surrogacy Centre India, our fertility specialists perform detailed assessments to identify any underlying issues that could affect IVF success and create a personalized treatment plan.

Conclusion

Making the right lifestyle changes before IVF can increase your chances of conception and ensure a healthier pregnancy journey. At Surrogacy Centre India, the best IVF centre in Delhi, our expert team provides comprehensive fertility guidance, emotional support, and world-class IVF care tailored to your needs.

The Step-by-Step Process of Altruistic Surrogacy in India

Altruistic surrogacy in India is a compassionate pathway for couples unable to conceive naturally. Unlike commercial surrogacy, altruistic surrogacy involves a surrogate mother who carries the child without monetary compensation, except for medical expenses and insurance. For a smooth and legally compliant journey, choosing the surrogacy centre in India is crucial. Surrogacy Centre India provides expert guidance through every step of the process.

1. Initial Consultation and Medical Screening

The first step in altruistic surrogacy is a detailed consultation with fertility experts. Intended parents discuss their medical history, fertility challenges, and expectations. Both the intended parents and the surrogate mother undergo comprehensive medical screening, including:

• Hormonal tests
• Ultrasound and reproductive system evaluation
• Infectious disease screening
• Psychological assessment

This ensures that all parties are physically and mentally prepared for the surrogacy journey, minimizing risks and improving the chances of a successful pregnancy.

2. Legal Agreements and Approval

Legal compliance is a critical component of altruistic surrogacy in India. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 mandates that surrogacy agreements must be approved by the competent authority. Key steps include:

• Drafting a legal contract outlining the rights and responsibilities of the intended parents and the surrogate
• Ensuring that the surrogate is a close relative of the intended parents
• Obtaining approval from the national or state surrogacy board before starting any medical procedures

By working with the best surrogacy centre in India, intended parents can navigate the legal process smoothly, ensuring that the surrogacy arrangement is fully compliant with Indian law.

3. Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Care

Once medical and legal prerequisites are complete, the next step is the creation and transfer of the embryo. Depending on the couple’s fertility needs, IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization) is performed in a controlled lab environment to fertilize the egg with sperm. The resulting embryo is then carefully transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.

During pregnancy, the surrogate receives comprehensive prenatal care, including:

• Regular ultrasounds and checkups
• Nutritional and lifestyle guidance
• Emotional and psychological support

The intended parents are kept informed and involved throughout the pregnancy, ensuring a collaborative and supportive journey toward parenthood.

Why Choose Surrogacy Centre India?

Surrogacy Centre India is recognized as one of the leading surrogacy centres in India, offering ethical, safe, and personalized surrogacy services. From initial consultation and medical screening to legal approvals and pregnancy management, the centre provides end-to-end support, ensuring intended parents experience a smooth and successful altruistic surrogacy journey.

Conclusion
Altruistic surrogacy in India is a carefully regulated and compassionate path to parenthood. Following a structured process that includes medical screening, legal compliance, and attentive pregnancy care is essential. With the guidance of experts at Surrogacy Centre India, intended parents can confidently navigate the process and fulfill their dream of becoming parents.

What Role Does Family Play in Altruistic Surrogacy in India?

In India, altruistic surrogacy is a deeply emotional journey that goes beyond medical and legal aspects — it’s built on the foundation of family support and trust. Under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only altruistic surrogacy is permitted, where a surrogate mother receives no monetary compensation apart from medical expenses and insurance. In this arrangement, the role of family becomes crucial.

Family members often act as emotional anchors, providing encouragement and stability to both the intended parents and the surrogate mother. The surrogate, usually a close relative, carries the pregnancy out of compassion and love rather than financial benefit. This familial involvement ensures transparency, mutual respect, and emotional comfort throughout the process.

For intended parents, the support of family members helps manage the psychological and social challenges associated with infertility and surrogacy. It also reinforces the cultural and ethical values that define Indian society, where family bonds hold immense importance.

If you are considering surrogacy, consulting the best surrogacy centre in Delhi can guide you through the legal and emotional aspects of the process with compassion and expertise. Surrogacy Centre India offers ethical and well-structured altruistic surrogacy programs that prioritize both the surrogate’s well-being and the intended parents’ dreams of parenthood.

In conclusion, family plays an indispensable role in altruistic surrogacy — providing love, care, and moral strength, making the journey toward parenthood truly meaningful.

Understanding the Surrogacy Law for Single Women in India: What You Need to Know

Surrogacy has given countless couples and individuals the joy of parenthood, but in India, the process is governed by strict regulations to ensure ethical and legal transparency. For single women, understanding the current surrogacy laws in India is essential before considering this option.

The Legal Framework of Surrogacy in India

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, and its amendment in 2023, define who can access surrogacy services in India. The law permits altruistic surrogacy only—meaning the surrogate mother receives no financial compensation other than medical expenses and insurance. Commercial surrogacy, where payment is made for carrying a pregnancy, is strictly prohibited.

Initially, the law limited surrogacy to Indian heterosexual married couples who had been childless for at least five years. However, following recent amendments, single women (widowed or divorced) are now allowed to opt for altruistic surrogacy under specific medical conditions.

Eligibility Criteria for Single Women

According to the revised Surrogacy Laws in India, a single woman must meet the following criteria:

• She must be an Indian citizen.
• She should be a widow or divorced woman aged between 35 and 45 years.
• She must obtain a medical certificate of infertility or inability to carry a pregnancy.
• The surrogacy arrangement must be altruistic, with a close relative acting as the surrogate mother.

This ensures that surrogacy remains an ethical, compassionate act rather than a commercial transaction.

Why Altruistic Surrogacy Is Important

Altruistic surrogacy promotes emotional trust and ethical integrity. The surrogate mother does not receive financial compensation, ensuring that the process is motivated by empathy rather than profit. Many intended parents choose an altruistic surrogacy centre in Delhi, where the procedure follows all legal and medical guidelines. These centres provide expert fertility care, psychological counseling, and legal guidance to ensure a safe and compliant surrogacy journey.

Conclusion

The updated surrogacy laws in India have made it possible for single women, especially widows and divorcees, to embrace motherhood through altruistic surrogacy. While the process involves legal and medical checks, it provides a structured, ethical path to parenthood. Consulting a reputed altruistic surrogacy centre in India ensures professional care, transparency, and adherence to the law — helping single women fulfill their dream of becoming mothers responsibly and confidently.