Surrogacy Timeline in Canada – What to Expect

Introduction

For both surrogates and intended parents, one of the most common questions is:
“How long will surrogacy take in Canada?”

The surrogacy journey isn’t just nine months of pregnancy. It begins with screening and matching, and continues through medical treatments, legal steps, delivery, and even post-birth paperwork. On average, a full surrogacy journey in Canada lasts 12–18 months, though timelines vary depending on availability of matches, medical success rates, and provincial laws.

This guide provides a realistic, step-by-step timeline so you know what to expect.

Step 1 – Application and Eligibility (1–2 months)

For Surrogates

Women apply to become surrogates by completing eligibility questionnaires. Requirements include:

• Age 21–45
• At least one healthy full-term pregnancy
• Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
• Non-smoker, drug-free, BMI under 35
• Willingness to commit to a year-long journey

For Intended Parents

Applications focus on medical background, embryos available (or donor eggs), and legal readiness.

⏳ Timeframe: 4–8 weeks for initial paperwork, medical exams, and psychological screening.

Step 2 – Matching (1–3 months)

Agencies like Surrogacy4All help connect surrogates and intended parents. Matching considers:

• Shared values (religion, lifestyle, family expectations)
• Comfort with sensitive topics (prenatal testing, abortion, selective reduction)
• Emotional compatibility

Once both sides agree, they move to the next step.

⏳ Timeframe: 1–3 months, depending on preferences.

💡 Expert Quote:

“The match is the foundation of a smooth surrogacy journey. We encourage both sides to take their time until it feels right.” – Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Step 3 – Legal Contracts (1–2 months)

Independent legal counsel for both surrogate and intended parents is required. Contracts cover:

• Expense reimbursements
• Medical arrangements
• Parentage rights
• Confidentiality
• Dispute resolution

⏳ Timeframe: 4–6 weeks for drafting, review, and signing.

Step 4 – Medical Preparation and Embryo Transfer (2–3 months)

The surrogate undergoes fertility treatments to prepare her uterus for embryo transfer. Steps include:

• Hormone injections (estrogen, progesterone)
• Monitoring via ultrasounds and bloodwork
• Embryo transfer at a licensed fertility clinic

⏳ Timeframe: 6–10 weeks before transfer + additional cycles if needed.

Step 5 – Pregnancy (9 months)

Once pregnancy is confirmed:

• Regular prenatal care
• Expense reimbursements (travel, childcare, maternity leave, lost wages)
• Emotional support through counseling and peer groups

⏳ Timeframe: 9 months

Step 6 – Delivery and Parentage (1–2 months post-birth)

• Baby is delivered in a Canadian hospital.
• Birth is registered with provincial Vital Statistics.
• Parentage order is obtained (faster in Ontario/BC, longer in Quebec).
• New birth certificate issued listing intended parents.
• For international parents, apply for baby’s Canadian passport.

⏳ Timeframe: 4–12 weeks post-birth, depending on province and nationality of parents.

Case Study – Julia’s Timeline

Julia, surrogate in BC

• Applied: January 2023
• Matched: March 2023
• Contracts signed: April 2023
• Embryo transfer: June 2023
• Pregnancy confirmed: July 2023
• Delivered: March 2024
• Parents received passport: May 2024

“It was about 15 months from start to finish. I always felt supported at each stage.” – Julia

Testimonials

“We matched in just six weeks, and our surrogate became pregnant on the first transfer. Total journey: 14 months.” – Tom & Alicia, Ontario

“We had two failed transfers, so our process was 20 months. But in the end, we took home our miracle baby.” – David & Leah, BC

“As a surrogate, the legal phase felt slow, but it gave me peace of mind.” – Sophie, Alberta

Internal Linking Suggestions

• Step-by-Step: Bringing Your Baby Home from Canada
• Legal Guide to Surrogacy Contracts in Canada
• Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy in Canada

FAQs

Q: How long does surrogacy take in Canada from start to finish?

Ans. On average, 12–18 months.

Q: Which step takes the longest?

Ans. Pregnancy (9 months) plus post-birth paperwork for parentage and passports.

Q: Can the process be shorter?

Ans. Yes, if matching and medical preparation go smoothly.

Q: What delays should parents expect?

Ans. Failed embryo transfers, legal reviews, and court timelines.

Next Steps with Surrogacy4All

At Surrogacy4All, we help families and surrogates navigate every stage of the timeline. With clear communication and full support, your journey to parenthood stays on track.

👉 Apply Now    📞 Call 1-212-661-7177  📧 Email info@surrogacy4all.com