FAQs

In the case of gestational surrogacy in Canada, the intended parents do not become legal parents automatically. Instead, after the birth, legal parentage must be established through either an administrative or court-based process, depending on provincial regulations.

A written surrogacy agreement, signed prior to embryo transfer by all parties, and including independent legal counsel for the surrogate and intended parents, is usually required.

Once legal parentage is granted, the lawyer assists with registering the birth and ordering the birth certificate listing only the intended parents. These processes vary significantly by province.

In the event that the IPs are from another country, the child goes home with a Canadian birth certificate and a Canadian passport. It is the responsibility of the IP to apply for citizenship of the child in their home country.

Each IVF clinic will have its own protocol and restrictions regarding sexual activity. At most clinics, the surrogate will be asked to either abstain from sexual relations entirely or to use effective barrier methods prior to starting any injectable medications, and to completely abstain from the start of medications until cleared by the primary IVF physician. This period often begins about two weeks before the embryo transfer and continues for approximately two weeks afterward, but the exact timing will depend on the pregnancy’s progress and the physician’s instructions.

In Canada, surrogacy transfers are most often done with frozen embryos, scheduled to align with the surrogate’s medicated or natural cycle.

The procedure itself takes about 10–30 minutes using a thin catheter passed through the cervix. Afterward, the surrogate typically rests at the clinic for 20–60 minutes and may be asked to limit activity for a day or two, as directed by the clinic. All medications must be taken exactly as prescribed to support the cycle and pregnancy, and specific protocols may vary by clinic.

Each fertility clinic varies in its protocol, generally for twelve weeks.

Yes!

No. Your spouse or partner must be aware of your intentions and willing to support your surrogacy journey, as their involvement is required for certain steps. Under the Health Canada Act and clinic policy, they will need to complete STI testing, attend a one-time counselling session, and sign specific clinic forms. Depending on the province, they may also be required to sign the surrogacy contract. Please ask us for more details based on your situation.

Yes, if you have a spouse or partner, he/she will be asked to submit to blood tests, cultures, and a psychological consultation.

You will be required to have a physical exam, cultures, blood tests, and a psychological screening.