Surrogacy in Albania

Surrogacy in Albania: A New Destination for Inclusive, Affordable Family Building

Albania is quickly emerging as a promising option for intended parents—including singles, LGBTQ+ families, and heterosexual couples—seeking accessible, affordable surrogacy in Europe. With modern fertility clinics, shorter wait times, and a growing reputation in international surrogacy, Albania offers a compelling alternative to more established (and often costlier) destinations.

Whether you are a same-sex couple, a single man, or a heterosexual couple exploring your family-building options, Albania could offer the blend of affordability, flexibility, and medical quality you’re seeking.

Is Surrogacy Legal in Albania?

Surrogacy in Albania operates in a legal grey zone. There are currently no specific laws that regulate or prohibit the practice. However, many intended parents have successfully completed surrogacy journeys in Albania by working with experienced legal professionals who carefully draft contracts and guide them through the court system.

Key Legal Considerations:

• Only gestational surrogacy is permitted, meaning the surrogate must not be genetically related to the child.
• Surrogacy is not explicitly banned for same-sex couples or singles, and with strong legal planning, these arrangements are possible.
• Birth certificates list the biological father and the surrogate, and this cannot be amended under current Albanian law.
• Albanian citizenship or passports are not granted to children born via surrogacy.
• The lack of legal regulation provides flexibility but introduces legal risks—making expert legal support essential.

Legal Updates: Regulation on the Horizon

In September 2024, Albania’s Ministry of Health introduced draft legislation aimed at formalising surrogacy practices. The proposal seeks to:

• Legally recognise and regulate surrogacy agreements.
• Outline eligibility criteria for surrogates and intended parents.
• Increase protections for all parties involved.

The law is currently under public consultation and may introduce clearer standards—but also new limitations. At this stage, Albania remains an option with opportunities and legal ambiguity, so cautious navigation is key.

How Much Does Surrogacy in Albania Cost? 

Albania offers one of the most cost-effective surrogacy programs worldwide, with total expenses generally ranging between $85,000 and $95,000. This is significantly more affordable than surrogacy in countries like the U.S., where costs often exceed $180,000.

What’s Included:

• Travel, accommodation, insurance, and contingency fees.
• Medical procedures: IVF, prenatal care, C-sections, and delivery.
• Surrogate compensation.
• Legal contracts and ongoing legal guidance.

Albania’s pricing aligns with Eastern European countries like Georgia and Ukraine, but it often provides faster timelines and broader access for diverse family types.

Albania is gaining attention not only for its affordability but also for its inclusive and efficient approach to international surrogacy. Here’s what makes it stand out:

What Makes Albania an Attractive Surrogacy Destination

• Open to all intended parents: including singles, unmarried couples, and LGBTQ+ families.
• Lower costs than most Western countries.
• Modern fertility clinics using international standards.
• Shorter wait times for matching with a surrogate.
• Diverse egg donor options, including access to European travel donors from Ukraine and Georgia.