Surrogacy and the Legal Process for Intended Parents and Surrogates in India

Surrogacy offers a life-changing opportunity for couples struggling with infertility to start a family. In India, the legal landscape around surrogacy has significantly evolved, especially with the enactment of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. The new law allows only altruistic surrogacy, reshaping the journey for both intended parents and surrogate mothers. In this blog, we’ll explore the legal process involved and provide insights into the surrogacy cost in Delhi and India. We’ll also highlight how a reputed surrogacy treatment centre in Delhi like Surrogacy Centre India can guide you through this life-affirming process.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy in India

Altruistic surrogacy is a legal and ethical arrangement where a surrogate carries a child for the intended parents without any monetary compensation beyond medical expenses and insurance. This form of surrogacy is aimed at preventing the commercialization of the practice, ensuring the dignity and safety of all parties involved.

Who Can Opt for Altruistic Surrogacy?

As per the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only certain individuals can avail of surrogacy in India:

• Indian married couples (at least five years of marriage)
• The female partner must be aged between 23 to 50 years, and the male partner between 26 to 55 years
• The couple must be medically certified as infertile
• They should not have any biological or adopted child (with some exceptions)

Note: Single individuals, same-sex couples, and foreigners are not permitted to undertake surrogacy in India under this law.

Legal Process for Intended Parents

The legal journey for intended parents includes the following steps:

1. Eligibility Certification: Obtain an infertility certificate from a registered medical practitioner.
2. Application to Appropriate Authority: Submit a surrogacy application along with required documents (ID proof, marriage certificate, infertility certificate).
3. Ethics Committee Approval: Get approval from the hospital’s ethics committee.
4. Surrogacy Agreement: Sign a legal agreement with the surrogate outlining responsibilities, rights, and duties.
5. Medical and Insurance Coverage: Ensure the surrogate receives comprehensive health insurance for at least 36 months.
6. Birth Certificate Issuance: After birth, the intended parents are named on the birth certificate without the surrogate’s name.

Responsibilities of the Surrogate

The surrogate must:

• Be a close relative of the intended couple
• Be a married woman aged 25–35 years with at least one biological child
• Not have been a surrogate more than once
• Undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluation

Surrogacy Cost in Delhi, India

Although commercial surrogacy is banned, the surrogacy cost in Delhi or anywhere in India under the altruistic model includes:

• Medical treatments and IVF procedures
• Legal documentation and court approvals
• Surrogate mother’s medical expenses and insurance
• Hospitalization and delivery charges

The surrogacy cost in India typically ranges between ₹4 lakhs to ₹7 lakhs, depending on the IVF centre, city, and complexity of the case. For instance, at trusted centres like Surrogacy Centre India, known as a leading surrogacy treatment centre in Delhi, the costs are transparent and regulated as per legal norms.

Why Choose Surrogacy Centre India for Surrogacy in Delhi?

Surrogacy Centre India is a renowned name in fertility and surrogacy treatments in Delhi. With a team of experienced specialists led by Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour, the clinic ensures:

• Ethical and legally compliant surrogacy procedures
• Personalized care and counseling
• State-of-the-art IVF facilities
• Clear cost breakdown and transparency

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy in India is now a tightly regulated yet compassionate option for couples dreaming of parenthood. Understanding the legal framework and working with a reputable surrogacy treatment centre in Delhi like Surrogacy Centre India ensures a safe, respectful, and emotionally supportive journey for both the intended parents and the surrogate.

If you're considering surrogacy, speak to our experts at Surrogacy Centre India to understand your eligibility, process, and options. Your dream of becoming a parent is closer than you think.

Altruistic Surrogacy in India: What the New Law Really Means for Parents

The passage of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 marks a turning point in India’s reproductive healthcare landscape. With commercial surrogacy now banned, the law allows only altruistic surrogacy, fundamentally reshaping who can become parents through this method and under what conditions.

India, once a hub for international surrogacy, has now restricted the practice to Indian citizens under a tightly regulated framework designed to prevent exploitation and uphold ethical standards.

What Is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Under the new law, altruistic surrogacy refers to an arrangement where a woman voluntarily agrees to carry a child for an intending couple without receiving any financial compensation, except for medical expenses and insurance coverage.

This model stands in direct contrast to the commercial surrogacy practices that flourished in India during the 2000s, where surrogates were often recruited through middlemen and paid for their services — a system critics argued encouraged exploitation and commodification of women's bodies.

Who Is Eligible?

The law permits surrogacy only for Indian heterosexual married couples who:

• Have been married for at least five years
• Are medically proven to be infertile
• Do not already have a living biological or adopted child

Single individuals, live-in partners, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and foreign nationals are not eligible under the current framework.

The intended mother must be between 23 and 50 years old, and the intended father between 26 and 55 years.

Who Can Be a Surrogate?

A surrogate mother must:

• Be a married Indian woman aged 25 to 35
• Have at least one biological child of her own
• Serve as a surrogate only once in her lifetime
• Be a close relative of the intended couple (though the law does not explicitly define this term)
• Undergo comprehensive medical and psychological screening

She must also be covered under health insurance for 36 months post-delivery.

Legal Safeguards and Oversight

The law introduces a range of safeguards, including:

• Mandatory approval from a District Medical Board
• Registration of all surrogacy clinics under a national and state-level Surrogacy Board
• A legally binding surrogacy agreement detailing roles, responsibilities, and protections for both the surrogate and the intended parents

Violation of the provisions, including engaging in commercial surrogacy or acting as an intermediary, can result in up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹10 lakh.

Clinics Adjust to the New Norm

Leading fertility centers in India, particularly in Delhi, are aligning their operations with the new regulations. SCI IVF Hospital, known for its ethical approach and affordable treatment options, now offers legally compliant surrogacy packages in Delhi, ensuring full transparency and legal support from start to finish.

According to the hospital, the demand for surrogacy has not declined — rather, it's shifting towards more informed, law-abiding parents who value ethical clarity over convenience.

What This Means Going Forward

The move to legalize only altruistic surrogacy in India has sparked both praise and criticism. Supporters argue that it puts an end to the exploitative surrogacy market and promotes dignity for all parties involved. Critics contend that the narrow eligibility criteria leave out deserving groups such as single parents, same-sex couples, and foreign nationals.

As India steps into a new phase of regulated reproductive care, one thing is clear: surrogacy is no longer just a medical procedure — it’s a legally complex, highly controlled pathway to parenthood, requiring careful planning, legal compliance, and trustworthy medical partners.

For those considering surrogacy in India, especially in cities like Delhi, understanding the law is essential. Clinics like SCI IVF Hospital are leading the way by offering guidance that’s not only affordable but also fully aligned with India’s evolving legal and ethical standards.

India’s Most Trusted Surrogacy Centre – SCI IVF Hospital

When parenthood feels out of reach, surrogacy can offer new hope. In India, where altruistic surrogacy is legally permitted, SCI IVF Hospital stands out as one of the most trusted and advanced surrogacy centres. With a compassionate approach, ethical practices, and experienced specialists, SCI IVF Hospital has helped countless couples fulfill their dreams of becoming parents.

What Is Altruistic Surrogacy?
Altruistic surrogacy involves a surrogate mother who offers to carry a child for intended parents without receiving monetary compensation beyond medical and insurance expenses. This approach promotes ethical family building and is the only legally allowed form of surrogacy in India under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.

Why SCI IVF Hospital Is the Best Choice for Surrogacy in India

1. Legal & Transparent Process
   SCI IVF Hospital strictly follows Indian legal guidelines, ensuring that every step — from surrogate screening to post-birth legal procedures — is transparent, documented, and compliant with the law.
2. Expert Team Led by Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour
   Dr. Shivani, a renowned IVF and surrogacy specialist in India, brings decades of experience in reproductive medicine. Under her guidance, SCI IVF Hospital has maintained an impressive success rate and a reputation for ethical fertility care.
3. Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
   From initial consultation and surrogate matching to IVF procedures, pregnancy care, and legal support — everything is managed seamlessly within the hospital. This integrated approach ensures peace of mind for intended parents.
4. State-of-the-Art Facilities
   The centre is equipped with advanced reproductive technology, modern labs, and compassionate staff, ensuring the highest standards of medical care throughout the surrogacy journey.
5. Supportive Environment for Intended Parents
   SCI IVF Hospital provides psychological and emotional support for both the intended parents and surrogate mothers, creating a respectful and dignified experience for all involved.

Who Can Opt for Surrogacy at SCI IVF Hospital?
Under Indian law, altruistic surrogacy is permitted for:

• Indian heterosexual married couples (with at least 5 years of marriage)
• Couples who are medically proven to be infertile
• Couples without biological or adopted children (with some exceptions)

Legal Assurance & Post-Birth Process
SCI IVF Hospital also guides intended parents through the necessary post-birth legal procedures, including birth certificate updates and obtaining parental rights, ensuring a smooth transition into parenthood.

Conclusion
SCI IVF Hospital is not just a medical facility — it is a place where hope is nurtured, and families are born. If you’re exploring altruistic surrogacy in India, trust the expertise, integrity, and care offered by SCI IVF Hospital and Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour.

Which IVF Clinic Has the Highest Success Rate in Delhi?

When it comes to building a family through fertility treatments, choosing the right IVF clinic can make all the difference. For couples in search of the most reliable and successful fertility care in Delhi, SCI IVF Hospital emerges as the top choice — backed by a proven success rate of over 80% and led by one of India’s most trusted fertility experts, Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour.

Why SCI IVF Hospital is the Best IVF Centre in Delhi

SCI IVF Hospital is a leading name in reproductive healthcare, offering advanced fertility solutions at affordable costs. The clinic’s consistently high IVF success rates, compassionate care, and personalized approach have made it a preferred destination for both Indian and international patients.

1. IVF Success Rate of Over 80%
2. State-of-the-Art Facilities and Lab Technology
3. Individualized Fertility Plans for Each Couple
4. Affordable Packages with Transparent Pricing

Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour – A Name You Can Trust

Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour, the founder and medical director of SCI IVF Hospital, brings over 20 years of experience in infertility treatment, reproductive medicine, and gynecology. Her expertise and deep understanding of complex fertility issues have helped thousands of couples become proud parents.

Dr. Gour is known not only for her clinical excellence but also for her warm and patient-centered approach, making the entire journey less stressful and more hopeful for intended parents.

Fertility Services Offered at SCI IVF Hospital

SCI IVF Hospital offers a comprehensive range of infertility treatments and assisted reproductive techniques, including:

• In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• Blastocyst Transfer
• Egg Donation Program
• Sperm Donation and Freezing
• Embryo Freezing
• Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy Surgeries
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
• Male Infertility Treatment
• Altruistic Surrogacy (as per Indian law)

Altruistic Surrogacy at SCI IVF Hospital

SCI IVF Hospital is also among the few centers in Delhi that offer altruistic surrogacy — a legally approved and ethical surrogacy option where no monetary compensation is provided to the surrogate mother, except for medical and pregnancy-related expenses. The hospital strictly adheres to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, ensuring transparency, legal security, and emotional support throughout the journey.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for the best IVF centre in Delhi with the highest success rate, SCI IVF Hospital offers everything you need — advanced fertility solutions, experienced doctors, affordable pricing, and compassionate care. With Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour at the helm, your journey to parenthood is in trusted and capable hands.

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.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy: Criteria and Eligibility

Surrogacy has emerged as a powerful option for couples struggling with infertility. In India, with the implementation of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only altruistic surrogacy is legally permitted. Unlike commercial surrogacy, altruistic surrogacy focuses on compassion, ethical practices, and helping intended parents experience the joy of parenthood without any financial gain for the surrogate.

At Surrogacy Centre India, an affordable surrogacy hospital in Delhi, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of this legally supported, emotionally fulfilling process.

What is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy is a legal surrogacy arrangement where the surrogate mother offers to carry a child for the intended parents without receiving monetary compensation, apart from essential medical and insurance expenses. This form of surrogacy is based on empathy and mutual agreement and is now the only legally allowed type of surrogacy in India.

Who is Eligible for Altruistic Surrogacy in India?

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 lays down strict eligibility criteria for both intended parents and surrogate mothers:

Criteria for Intended Parents:

• Must be Indian citizens and legally married for at least five years.
• Heterosexual couple (male and female), with the female aged 23–50 years and the male 26–55 years.
• Must be medically certified as infertile.
• Should not have a surviving biological, adopted, or surrogate child (exceptions apply for children with physical or mental disabilities).
• Must obtain a Certificate of Essentiality and Certificate of Eligibility from the appropriate authority.

Criteria for Surrogate Mother:

• Must be a close relative of the intended couple.
• Should be married, have at least one biological child, and be aged between 25 and 35 years.
• Can act as a surrogate only once in her lifetime.
• Must undergo thorough medical and psychological screening.

Why Choose Surrogacy Centre India?

As a reputed altruistic surrogacy hospital in Delhi, Surrogacy Centre India ensures ethical, legal, and transparent procedures aligned with government regulations. We offer:

• Complete guidance for legal formalities
• Medical screening and IVF services
• Emotional support and counseling
• Clear, affordable surrogacy plans
• A compassionate team with vast experience

We are recognized among the best surrogacy centres in Delhi, offering affordable surrogacy in Delhi and extending services across India.

Is Altruistic Surrogacy Affordable in India?

Yes, altruistic surrogacy in India is more affordable compared to commercial surrogacy models, as it eliminates monetary compensation to the surrogate. At Surrogacy Centre India, we provide affordable surrogacy in Delhi with a focus on ethical care and legal protection for all parties.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy is not just a legal arrangement; it is a compassionate journey built on trust and hope. At Surrogacy Centre India, we help you fulfill your parenthood dreams with sensitivity, expertise, and compliance with the law.

Altruistic Surrogacy in India: What It Means and How Much It Costs

Surrogacy has become a ray of hope for many couples who are unable to conceive naturally. With the implementation of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, India now allows only altruistic surrogacy, a legally and ethically regulated approach aimed at safeguarding the rights of all involved. If you're planning for surrogacy in India, it is essential to understand what altruistic surrogacy means and why consulting a specialist doctor like Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour at Surrogacy Centre India can make all the difference.

What is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy is a form of surrogacy where the surrogate mother offers her service without any financial compensation, except for medical expenses and insurance coverage during the pregnancy. Unlike commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate is paid beyond her medical costs, altruistic surrogacy ensures that the practice remains ethical and non-commercial.

Under this model, the surrogate is usually a close relative of the intended parents and participates voluntarily out of goodwill. The goal is to eliminate exploitation while still allowing hopeful parents the chance to experience the joy of parenthood.

Altruistic Surrogacy Cost in India

One of the major questions for couples exploring this path is: What is the altruistic surrogacy cost in India?

While commercial surrogacy involved high expenses due to compensation and agency fees, altruistic surrogacy cost is significantly lower. In altruistic arrangements, the intended parents are only responsible for:

• Medical treatment and IVF procedures
• Hospitalization and delivery expenses
• Surrogate’s health insurance coverage
• Legal documentation and approvals

On average, the surrogacy cost in India under the altruistic model can range from ₹5 lakhs to ₹8 lakhs, depending on the clinic, complexity of the case, and medical requirements.

Why Consult Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour?

Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour is a renowned fertility and surrogacy specialist in India with years of experience and a trusted reputation. She leads the team at Surrogacy Centre India, offering ethical, legal, and medically advanced surrogacy solutions. Her personalized care, transparency, and deep understanding of the surrogacy process make her a leading choice for couples considering this journey.

By consulting a specialist like Dr. Shivani, you ensure that:

• All procedures follow legal and ethical guidelines
• You receive expert medical and emotional support
• Costs are clearly explained with no hidden charges
• The surrogate receives proper care and counseling

Surrogacy Centre India – A Trusted Partner

At Surrogacy Centre India, we are committed to offering affordable and legally compliant surrogacy services under the altruistic model. Our team provides end-to-end support—from medical screenings and IVF treatments to legal guidance and postnatal care.

Whether you’re starting your journey or need expert advice, we’re here to make the path to parenthood smoother and stress-free.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy in India is not just a legal requirement—it’s a step toward compassionate, responsible parenthood. Understanding the process, preparing for the altruistic surrogacy cost, and consulting with a specialist like Dr. Shivani Sachdev Gour at Surrogacy Centre India ensures a safe, ethical, and emotionally rewarding surrogacy experience.

Is Commercial Surrogacy Allowed in India? Learn About Altruistic Surrogacy

With the growing awareness and demand for fertility treatments, many couples are exploring surrogacy as a viable option to build a family. However, it is crucial to understand the legal framework surrounding surrogacy in India before considering this path. One common question that arises is:

Is Commercial Surrogacy Allowed in India?
No. As per the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, commercial surrogacy is strictly prohibited in India. The law allows only altruistic surrogacy, which focuses on ethical and compassionate practices.

What is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy in India is a form of surrogacy where the surrogate mother offers her service without any monetary compensation, except for essential medical expenses and insurance coverage. This approach ensures that the process is ethical and free from exploitation, protecting the interests of both the surrogate and the intended parents.

Why India Adopted Altruistic Surrogacy?

India transitioned to altruistic surrogacy to eliminate unethical practices that were often associated with commercial surrogacy. The goal is to promote a more humane and legally sound approach to surrogacy that respects the dignity of all parties involved.

Key highlights of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021:

• Surrogacy is allowed only for Indian heterosexual married couples, or Indian women who are widowed or divorced (subject to specific conditions).
• The surrogate must be a close relative and a willing volunteer.
• No financial compensation is permitted apart from medical and insurance coverage.
• Foreigners, NRIs, and PIOs are not allowed to opt for surrogacy in India.

Looking for Affordable Surrogacy in India?

At Surrogacy Centre India, we offer comprehensive support for couples looking for affordable surrogacy in India under the guidelines of altruistic surrogacy. Our expert team ensures transparency, emotional support, and legal compliance throughout the entire process.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore the option of surrogacy or are ready to start the journey, our compassionate care and experienced professionals are here to help you fulfill your dream of parenthood.

Conclusion

While commercial surrogacy in India is no longer permitted, altruistic surrogacy in India offers a legal, safe, and emotionally fulfilling alternative. If you're looking for reliable and affordable surrogacy in India, trust Surrogacy Centre India to guide you with care and expertise.

Start your parenthood journey today—with hope, love, and expert care.