Surrogacy Timeline 2025 – How Long Does the Process Really Take?

One of the most common questions Intended Parents ask is: “How long will it take before we’re holding our baby?”

In 2025, the surrogacy journey typically lasts 12–24 months depending on the agency, surrogate availability, and IVF outcomes

Some agencies have long waitlists (12+ months), while physician-led programs like Surrogacy4All often match families with surrogates in 0–3 months.

This blog breaks down the step-by-step timeline so you know what to expect at every stage.

Step-by-Step Surrogacy Timeline

1. Initial Consultation & Application (1–2 weeks)

• Meet with agency
• Share medical history, fertility goals
• Review cost and process
• Sign contracts

2. Surrogate Matching (0–12 months)

• Agencies vary greatly:
  • Surrogacy4All: average wait = 0–3 months

• • Other agencies: often 6–12 months
• Matching based on medical compatibility, location, and personal preferences

3. Medical & Psychological Screening (1–2 months)

• Surrogate undergoes full evaluation
• Intended Parents complete fertility testing if embryos not yet created

4. Legal Contracts (1–2 months)

• Drafting and signing surrogacy agreements
• Ensuring compliance with state laws

5. IVF & Embryo Transfer (1–2 months per cycle)

• Embryos created (if not already available)
• Transfer into surrogate
• Pregnancy confirmed after 2 weeks

6. Pregnancy (9 months)

• Regular medical checkups
• Monitoring by agency and physicians
• Insurance coordination

7. Delivery & Bringing Baby Home (2–4 weeks)

• Baby delivered
• Legal parentage finalized
• Citizenship/passport (for international parents)

Typical Timeline Scenarios

Fast-Track Agency (like Surrogacy4All)

• Matching: 0–3 months
• IVF & Contracts: 3–4 months
• Pregnancy: 9 months
• Baby in 12–15 months

Slow-Match Agency

• Matching: 9–12 months
• IVF & Contracts: 4–6 months
• Pregnancy: 9 months
• Baby in 20–24 months

Case Study: Saving Time With the Right Agency

Family A signed with a boutique agency. Waited 12 months for a surrogate, then completed IVF and pregnancy. Total timeline: 22 months.

Family B chose Surrogacy4All. Matched with a surrogate in 6 weeks, IVF succeeded on the first cycle, and their baby was born in 14 months.

Expert Quote

“The timeline varies widely. Licensed, physician-led agencies tend to move faster because surrogates feel safer working with them.”
– Dr. Rashmi Gulati, Medical Director, Patients Medical

Testimonials

“We expected a 2-year journey, but Surrogacy4All matched us in 2 months. Our baby arrived in just over a year.” – Raj & Anika, NJ

“The timeline was clear and predictable. That helped us plan financially and emotionally.” – Emily & Chris, TX

“Other agencies told us 12-month waitlists. Surrogacy4All had surrogates ready right away.” – Samantha & David, NY

FAQs

Q1: What’s the longest part of the surrogacy process?

Ans: Surrogate matching. Some agencies take over a year, but Surrogacy4All averages 0–3 months.

Q2: Can the timeline be shorter if we already have embryos?

Ans: Yes. Skipping egg retrieval can shorten the process by several months.

Q3: Do international parents face longer timelines?

Ans: Sometimes. Exit paperwork and citizenship may add 2–3 weeks.

Suggestions Linking

• Surrogacy Costs by State – Where Is It Most Affordable?
• Top 10 Lowest-Cost Surrogacy Agencies in 2025 – Ranked & Reviewed
• Why “Cheap” Surrogacy Isn’t Always the Best Choice
• Licensed vs. Unlicensed Surrogacy Agencies – Why It Matters

Next Steps

If you’re ready to start your surrogacy journey, don’t wait on long agency waitlists. Choose a program with faster matching, physician-led care, and transparent timelines.

Contact Surrogacy4All.com today: 1-212-661-7177 | info@surrogacy4all.com