Surrogacy

Surrogacy is an option for women who are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves, typically up to the age of 50. It is considered in cases where the uterus is absent or when serious medical conditions—such as cancer or chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, or kidney failure—make pregnancy unsafe or medically unfeasible for the intended mother.

In surrogacy, a surrogate mother carries the pregnancy. The embryo, created through IVF using the intended mother’s eggs and her partner’s sperm, is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Depending on the couple’s situation, donor eggs or donor sperm may also be used.

Surrogacy: Legal Framework and Regulations

Greek legislation is considered relatively progressive regarding surrogacy, making the country a leading destination for intended parents from abroad. This legal framework, combined with the internationally recognized expertise of Greek IVF clinics, offers a secure and reliable option for couples pursuing surrogacy.

Under Greek law, a physician must verify that the intended mother is medically unable to carry a pregnancy and that the chosen surrogate is physically and psychologically capable of doing so. Legal requirements for surrogates in Greece include:

• Being over 25 years of age
• Having at least one biological child
• Not having undergone more than two cesarean sections
• If married, obtaining written consent from her spouse
  

The selection process involves comprehensive medical screening and psychological evaluation to ensure the surrogate is suitable to carry a pregnancy.

Once a surrogate has been approved, the intended parents and the surrogate must submit a legal application to the Greek courts. Only after receiving court approval can the fertility clinic proceed with embryo transfer.

Following the birth, Greek law recognizes only the intended (biological) parents as the legal parents. They are named on the birth certificate and granted full legal custody of the child.