Surrogacy Cost in India: What Affects the Price?
Surrogacy emerged as a life‑changing option for couples who are unable to conceive naturally. Over the years, India has been recognised for its strong medical expertise and structured fertility care. However, one topic that often creates confusion is the surrogacy cost in India, mainly because different clinics quote very different numbers.
Many websites advertise low starting prices, but these figures often do not reflect the true and complete cost. In this blog, we will break down the realistic cost of surrogacy in India, clarify why some clinics mention lower amounts, and explain all the factors, including surrogate health and life insurance cost, which also influence the final surrogate cost.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in India?
The surrogacy cost in India generally ranges between ₹15 lakh and ₹25 lakh or more, depending on medical needs, clinic location, legal compliance, and insurance requirements.
Some clinics advertise surrogacy packages starting from ₹4–8 lakh. However, these are usually base or partial costs that include only limited procedures such as initial IVF or embryo transfer. When all mandatory expenses are included, the true cost of surrogacy in India is significantly higher.
Breakdown of Surrogacy Cost in India
Below is the realistic and comprehensive breakdown of the surrogate cost in India. Actual costs may vary based on individual medical conditions and clinic policies.
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost Range (₹) |
| IVF/ICSI Procedures | 300,000 – 500,000 |
| Fertility Medications & Hormones | 100,000 – 200,000 |
| Embryo Transfer & Monitoring | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Surrogate Medical Care (Prenatal & Postnatal) | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Surrogate Nutrition, Travel & Accommodation | 100,000 – 200,000 |
| Hospital Delivery & Hospitalisation | 150,000 – 300,000 |
| Legal & Documentation Charges | 100,000 – 200,000 |
| Surrogate Health Insurance | 10000 – 50000 |
| Surrogate Life Insurance | 50,000 – 200,000 |
| Contingency / Complication‑Related Costs | 100,000 – 300,000 |
| Total Estimated Surrogacy Cost (Estimated) | ₹15 – 25 lakh+ |
This table shows a complete and ethical surrogacy process cost under current Indian regulations.
Note – This is a estimated cost Actual cost might vary.
About Surrogacy Health & Life Insurance Plans
Surrogate Health Insurance
Health insurance for the surrogate mother is a mandatory and essential part of the cost of surrogacy in India. It protects the surrogate against pregnancy‑related complications and medical emergencies.
Health insurance typically covers:
- Pregnancy‑related complications
- Hospitalisation during pregnancy
- Delivery‑related medical expenses
- Post‑delivery complications for a defined period
Surrogate Life Insurance
Surrogate life insurance ensures financial security for the surrogate’s family in case of any unforeseen event during pregnancy or childbirth. This is an important ethical safeguard in the surrogacy process.
Why do some clinics mention a lower cost?
Many clinic websites highlight only the base IVF or embryo transfer charges. These figures often exclude:
- Full pregnancy medical care
- Delivery and hospitalisation costs
- Legal documentation and approvals
- Surrogate insurance
- Post‑delivery care
- Costs related to complications or multiple cycles
As a result, the advertised price may look attractive, but the actual cost of surrogacy in India increases significantly as the process progresses.
Key Factors which Affect Surrogate Cost in India
1. Medical Procedures and IVF Treatment
Medical treatment forms the largest part of the surrogacy cost. This includes:
- IVF / ICSI procedures
- Hormonal injections and fertility medications
- Embryo creation, freezing, and transfer
- Regular ultrasounds and medical monitoring
If multiple IVF cycles are required, the surrogacy cost can rise further.
2. Surrogate Mother’s Care and Well‑Being
Although only altruistic surrogacy is legally allowed in India, intended parents must cover all pregnancy‑related expenses of the surrogate, including:
- Prenatal and postnatal medical care
- Nutrition and supplements
- Accommodation and travel (if required)
- Maternity clothing and routine health check‑ups
Ensuring proper care directly impacts both the success of the pregnancy and the overall surrogacy cost in India.
3. Surrogate Health Insurance Cost
Surrogate health insurance is a mandatory and critical expense. It protects the surrogate mother against pregnancy‑related complications and medical emergencies.
Health insurance typically covers:
- Pregnancy complications
- Hospitalisation during pregnancy
- Delivery‑related medical costs
- Post‑delivery complications for a defined period
4. Surrogate Life Insurance Cost
In addition to health insurance, it is mandatory under surrogacy laws in India to have life insurance for the surrogate mother. This ensures financial security for the surrogate’s family in case of any unforeseen event during pregnancy or childbirth.
5. Hospital and Clinic Location
The city and clinic significantly influence the surrogacy cost in India.
- Metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore generally charge more
- Clinics with advanced technology and higher success rates may cost more
While smaller cities may appear cheaper, intended parents should always prioritise safety, legal compliance, and experience over cost alone.
6. Legal and Documentation Expenses
Surrogacy in India involves strict legal procedures, including:
- Drafting and notarising surrogacy agreements
- Legal compliance with Indian surrogacy laws
- Court documentation and approvals
- Birth certificate and parentage documentation
7. Insurance‑Related and Medical Complications
Unexpected situations can increase the surrogacy cost, such as:
- Pregnancy complications
- Preterm delivery
- Caesarean section
- Extended hospital stay
- Neonatal ICU (NICU) care for the baby
This is why clinics often recommend financial buffers when planning the surrogacy in India.
Hidden or Additional Costs
Before finalising a clinic, intended parents should ask about:
- Additional IVF cycles
- Costs for multiple births (twins or triplets)
- Extended surrogate medical care
- Extra insurance coverage if pregnancy extends beyond policy terms
Transparent discussions help avoid unexpected increases in the surrogacy cost later.
Is Surrogacy in India Still Affordable?
Compared to many other countries, India continues to offer relatively affordable surrogacy options while maintaining strong medical standards. However, affordability should not be confused with incomplete pricing. A realistic understanding of the surrogate cost in India helps intended parents make informed, ethical, and legally compliant decisions.
Final Thoughts
The surrogacy cost in India is not a single fixed number. It is influenced by medical treatments, surrogate care, legal requirements, clinic location, and, more importantly, surrogate health and life insurance costs. While some clinics may advertise lower starting prices, the true cost of surrogacy in India usually falls in the range of ₹15–25 lakh or more when all essential components are included.
For anyone considering surrogacy, consulting licensed fertility clinics and legal experts is essential to fully understand the surrogate cost, protect everyone involved, and ensure a safe and ethical journey to parenthood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is surrogacy 100% successful in India?
No, surrogacy is not 100% successful. Success rate depends on factors such as the age and health of the intended parents, embryo quality, clinic expertise, and overall medical care.
Which is better, IVF or surrogacy?
IVF and surrogacy both serve different purposes. IVF is suitable when the intended mother can carry a pregnancy, while surrogacy is recommended when pregnancy is medically impossible or risky. The choice depends on medical advice and individual circumstances.
Can NRIs have surrogacy in India?
As per current Indian regulations, surrogacy is permitted only for eligible Indian married couples under specific conditions. NRIs, OCI cardholders, and foreign nationals are generally not permitted.
