Cyprus, a country with deep cultural traditions, has made notable progress towards inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community. While civil unions have been legal since 2015, same-sex marriage and adoption rights remain out of reach.
When it comes to surrogacy, Cyprus operates in a legal grey area. There are no specific laws governing surrogacy arrangements, which means clinics and agencies can offer services to all couples, including LGBTQ+ intended parents, without violating regulations. However, this lack of formal legislation also means there are no legal safeguards in place. Surrogacy agreements are not legally binding, and surrogates retain parental rights until they officially waive them.
After the birth, the surrogate has up to three months to renounce her parental rights. Only then can intended parents begin adoption proceedings to secure full legal parentage. This step is critical for ensuring the legal protection of both the child and the intended parents.
In Cyprus, maternity rights are automatically granted to the surrogate, as she is considered the legal mother by virtue of giving birth. If she is married, her husband is presumed to be the legal father, regardless of the child’s genetic link to the intended parents. Should the surrogate decide to keep the child, intended parents have no legal recourse to claim parental rights.
Some intended parents opt to work with surrogates from jurisdictions with more robust legal protections, such as Ukraine, to ensure clear legal agreements and secure parental rights from birth.
Cyprus is a popular destination for fertility treatments—but when it comes to surrogacy, the legal landscape varies greatly depending on which part of the island you’re considering. The island is divided into two regions:
Both regions are home to well-established fertility clinics known for their high success rates—especially when using donor gametes, where success rates can reach 70–80%. Clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and many work with experienced, multilingual medical teams offering a high standard of care to international patients.
Whether you’re undergoing treatment in the north or south, egg donor anonymity is legally protected. Intended parents receive non-identifying information such as:
In most cases, donor profiles also include photos and family medical history, offering transparency without revealing the donor’s identity. Medical records are confidential and only accessible to the child later in life, and only under specific legal conditions.
Clinics in both regions typically work with trusted donor agencies, and many offer robust vetting and matching procedures to ensure safety, transparency, and professionalism throughout the process.
For those exploring surrogacy as part of their fertility journey, embryo freezing in Cyprus offers added flexibility. Embryos can be stored locally or shipped internationally for future use. This option gives intended parents peace of mind, especially if they are navigating legal or logistical delays around surrogacy arrangements in other countries.
Surrogacy is legal but heavily restricted:
As a result, international intended parents are currently not eligible for surrogacy under Republic of Cyprus law.
Surrogacy in the north is unregulated but widely practiced:
However, legal parentage is not automatically granted. Birth certificates typically name the surrogate and biological father, and there is no local legal process to amend them. Intended parents must take legal steps in their home country—such as second-parent adoption or court orders—to secure full parental rights.
Cyprus has become a preferred destination for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), offering services like gamete donation and legal sex selection. The ability to choose the sex of the baby—a practice restricted in many other countries—sets Cyprus apart and attracts diverse intended parents worldwide.
Surrogacy costs in Cyprus typically range between $50,000 and $70,000 USD, covering essential expenses such as embryo creation, surrogate care, and medical procedures. Compared to other destinations, Cyprus offers a more affordable pathway to parenthood without compromising on quality.
Surrogacy agencies in Cyprus play a crucial role in supporting intended parents throughout their journey. They facilitate the matching process, manage legal complexities, and coordinate with medical professionals. With Cyprus gaining prominence as an accessible surrogacy hub, the expertise of these agencies is invaluable.
Surrogate mothers in Cyprus undergo rigorous screening and receive continuous care throughout their pregnancy. Births typically take place in private maternity hospitals, ensuring a high standard of medical care.
It’s important to note that Cypriot law recognises the surrogate mother and, in some cases, her husband, as the legal parents at birth. Intended parents must work with experienced legal professionals to navigate this process effectively.
Cyprus has established itself as an appealing choice for surrogacy, combining affordability, high success rates, and advanced medical care. While the legal pathway can be complex, the rewards of building your family here are immeasurable.
At The Surrogacy Father, we’re here to offer honest advice, unwavering support, and compassionate care at every stage of your surrogacy journey. If you’re considering Cyprus, don’t hesitate to get in touch—our team is here to guide you every step of the way with expertise, empathy, and dedication. Book a free Introduction Consultation today and take the first step toward parenthood with confidence. Let’s make your dream of becoming a parent a reality—together.
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