On Tuesday April 1st, Greece announced legislative changes that would prohibit surrogacy for gay couples and single men. Justice Minister, Giorgos Floridis, says the proposed change is meant to legally define what it means to be unable to carry a pregnancy.
“We are now clarifying unequivocally that the concept of inability to carry a pregnancy does not refer to an inability arising from one’s gender,” said Floridis.
For more information on this law, you can read the full news article on AP.
Recent surrogacy restrictions in parts of Europe have raised concerns about whether this trend will continue across other countries in this region.
Below we break down what Greece’s new restriction says about the evolving landscape of surrogacy laws across Europe and what that could mean for intended parents.
What Greece’s Surrogacy Restrictions Mean for Intended Parents
Greece’s new surrogacy law will prohibit single men and men in same-sex relationships from having a child via surrogacy.
As Greece’s decision to restrict surrogacy unfolds, it raises questions about whether this decision will influence the legislative direction of neighboring countries or those with similar cultural and legal frameworks.
This shift could lead to other European nations considering similar laws or restrictions.
As a result, it’s important for prospective parents to stay informed about the legal landscapes across Europe, as changes in one country may have broader implications for surrogacy availability and access across the region.
Will Surrogacy in Cyprus be Affected?
While Cyprus has not enacted a similar ban on surrogacy, the proximity and close cultural ties of the two nations have led to questions about whether Cyprus could impose similar restrictions.
For now, Cyprus remains an available surrogacy destination. Countries like Cyprus may feel pressure to adopt more restrictive policies, especially if other nations in Europe continue to tighten their surrogacy laws.
U.S. Surrogacy Laws Remain Secure Amid Europe’s Legal Shifts
While many European countries have made significant strides toward supporting LGBT families, the legal landscape surrounding surrogacy can vary widely, with many countries imposing restrictions or banning it entirely.
In October of 2024, Italy extended its surrogacy ban, which had criminalized surrogacy in the country since 2004, to include pursuing surrogacy internationally as well.
These changes highlight the volatile nature of surrogacy laws in Europe, raising questions about whether more countries will introduce new restrictions in the future.
In comparison, surrogacy laws in the United States offer a more consistent outlook for single individuals and LGBT couples. While state laws do differ, many states have well-established and supportive legal frameworks for surrogacy, protecting intended parents and surrogates.
This stability can offer peace of mind for intended parents, particularly for LGBT couples, for whom surrogacy is their only chance at sharing a genetic connection to their child.
How We Support Intended Parents Domestically and Abroad
At American Surrogacy, we are committed to supporting intended parents, whether you’re a couple struggling with infertility, an LGBT couple or single individual. Here’s how we do it:
- Flexible programs that protect your budget: Our programs fit various financial preferences, all with clear, upfront costs. For added peace of mind, our Limited Risk Program provides financial protection if complications arise.
- Short wait times: Our costs cover marketing to connect with a larger pool of surrogates and thorough prescreening to ensure each surrogate is qualified. This not only allows you to become a parent faster, but also minimizes risks, saving you money further down road.
Domestic Intended Parents: Why Alternatives Abroad May Not Be Worth the Risk
If you’re an intended parent based in the U.S. considering surrogacy abroad, it’s important to consider the evolving nature of surrogacy laws across the globe.
Sudden restrictions could mean you face unexpected legal roadblocks or even the inability to complete your journey.
With the recent changes in Greece and Italy, you may want to ask yourself: Is that a risk I’m willing to take?
Alternatively, by pursuing surrogacy in the U.S, your journey will be supported by clear legal frameworks and ethical practices, all while staying within a familiar legal system.
Some U.S. intended parents turn to surrogacy abroad for perceived lower costs and faster processes. However, these savings often come from fewer regulations and less surrogate screening than is required by U.S. surrogacy agencies, increasing the risk of an unsuccessful match.
As a result, what appears to be a more affordable option can end up costing much more in the long run, both financially and emotionally.
Our Surrogacy Programs for International Intended Parents
Our programs offer comprehensive support for intended parents who wish to pursue surrogacy in the U.S. from the following countries:
- Canada
- England
- France
- Germany
- Spain
- Ireland
We guide international clients through every step of the surrogacy journey, from matching with a U.S. surrogate to navigating the complexities of international surrogacy laws and regulations, as well as providing access to our network of experienced professionals.
If you reside in any of the countries listed above and are interested in pursuing surrogacy in the U.S., learn more about our surrogacy programs.
Choose Certainty With American Surrogacy
While surrogacy laws shift in many countries, signaling potential uncertainty and complications for intended parents, the U.S. continues to provide consistently inclusive legal framework that protects intended parents and surrogates.
This framework enables surrogacy agencies like us to help individuals and couples have the family of their dreams while adhering to each state’s unique laws.
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Learn more about how we ensure you’re legally protected on your surrogacy journey by contacting us today.