International Intended Parents: Using Canadian Surrogates

Canada’s welcoming surrogacy framework attracts intended parents from around the world. Although international families are free to pursue surrogacy here, they must follow specific legal and logistical steps to ensure parental rights and secure citizenship for their child. This article demystifies the process for global parents looking north.

Legal Eligibility and Restrictions

 International parents are welcome to pursue surrogacy in Canada, but they must adhere to the Assisted Human Reproduction Act. The surrogacy arrangement must be altruistic, and payment is limited to reimbursing expenses. Contracts should clearly state the roles and expectations of each party.

Citizenship and Parental Rights

As Surrogacy4All notes, international parents are free to pursue Canadian surrogacy, but they must undertake legal processes to secure parental rights and obtain citizenship or passports for their child. This typically involves a parentage order from a Canadian court followed by applications for citizenship in the parents’ home country. Coordination with immigration attorneys on both sides is advisable.

Travel and Logistical Considerations

International parents should plan extended stays in Canada before and after the birth to attend medical appointments, establish legal parentage and secure travel documents. Travel insurance, accommodation arrangements and translation services may be necessary. Engaging an agency experienced with international clients simplifies logistics.

Financial Planning

Costs may include surrogacy agency fees, legal services in both countries, travel expenses, insurance and surrogate reimbursement. Exchange rate fluctuations and wire transfer fees should be factored into the budget. Parents should have contingency funds for unexpected delays or medical costs.

Case Study

Yuki and Hana from Japan chose surrogacy in Canada due to legal restrictions in their home country. With guidance from Surrogacy4All, they matched with a surrogate in Quebec. They visited Canada for the embryo transfer and again for the birth, staying for six weeks to complete paperwork and secure their son’s Japanese passport. Despite paperwork complexity, they felt supported throughout.

Testimonials

“Navigating two legal systems was challenging, but our agency’s expertise made it manageable.”

– Yuki & Hana

“Having a lawyer in both countries saved us time and stress.”

– Leo & Pierre

“Canada’s altruistic model aligned with our values.”

– Alessia & Marco

Expand Your Knowledge

• LGBTQ+ surrogacy in Canada
• Insurance and risk management
• Selecting the best surrogacy agency

FAQs

Q: How long must international parents stay in Canada?

Ans: At least several weeks for legal proceedings and paperwork.

Q: Do I need to hire lawyers in both countries?

Ans: Yes, to navigate local laws and ensure proper documentation.

Q; Is altruistic surrogacy the only option?

Ans: Yes, commercial surrogacy is illegal in Canada.

Next Steps with Patients Medical NYC

If you live outside Canada and dream of building a family here, Patients Medical NYC can coordinate with trusted agencies and law firms. Contact us for cross-border surrogacy planning.