Gestational Surrogacy In South Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide for Surrogacy Journey
Surrogacy in South Carolina offers hope to many infertile couples and singles and same-sex couple who wish to grow their family. A surrogate woman carries and raises a child for the intended parents, allowing families to unite and fulfill their dreams. The state provides both traditional and gestational surrogacy options to meet the diverse needs of prospective parents.
South Carolina ensures the rights of intended parents and surrogates through a robust legal framework. This framework makes surrogacy agreements legally binding, offering protection to all parties involved. Such a supportive legal environment enhances the surrogacy experience, making it secure and worry-free.
Despite the absence of specific surrogacy laws in South Carolina, the process remains viable for those seeking to become parents. For both intended parents and surrogates, surrogacy in South Carolina is a lawful and safe avenue for family building.
Get in touch for a Free Surrogacy Consultancy:
📲 +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Additional guide for intended parents:
An Overview Of Gestational Surrogacy In South Carolina
Although South Carolina lacks legislation on surrogacy, its courts generally favor family-building through this route. The state’s case law supports the legitimacy of surrogacy, ensuring a favorable legal environment for intended parents and surrogates.
The U.S. District Court for Charleston’s ruling in Mid-South Ins—Co v. Doe established the legitimacy of gestational carrier agreements. This decision solidifies South Carolina’s stance on the legality of surrogacy arrangements.
South Carolina does not restrict the compensation that can be offered to a gestational surrogate.
While traditional surrogacy is permissible, it is legally treated as adoption due to the genetic link between the surrogate and the child. This means any payment beyond living expenses is prohibited by South Carolina’s adoption laws.
Creating a surrogacy contract in South Carolina follows a standard legal process. Each party must have their own lawyer to ensure their rights and interests are protected during this critical legal step.
The Mid-South Ins. Co. v. Doe case is pivotal in establishing the enforceability of surrogacy contracts in South Carolina.
Adoptions by second parents are allowed in South Carolina. Like in other states, a second-parent adoption grants parental rights to both unmarried intended parents of the adopted child.
Why Choose South Carolina for Surrogacy?
- Favorable Legal Framework
South Carolina offers strong legal protections for intended parents through enforceable gestational surrogacy agreements. - Professional Support
The state is home to experienced surrogacy agencies, fertility clinics, and legal experts. - Competitive Costs
The cost of surrogacy in South Carolina is comparable to other surrogacy-friendly states, making it a viable option for many intended parents.
Legal Framework for Surrogacy in South Carolina
South Carolina has a favorable legal environment for surrogacy, particularly gestational surrogacy. Key legal aspects include:
- Gestational Surrogacy
Agreements where the surrogate has no genetic link to the child are supported by law. - Pre-Birth Orders
Intended parents can secure pre-birth orders to have their names on the baby’s birth certificate immediately after delivery. - Surrogacy Contracts
Comprehensive legal agreements are mandatory to protect the rights of all parties involved.
Surrogacy Laws In South Carolina
South Carolina’s lack of specific surrogacy laws makes it a surrogacy-friendly state. Without regulation, surrogacy agreements are generally enforceable, safeguarding the rights of both intended parents and surrogates.
While not mandatory, it is highly recommended that intending parents and surrogates consult with a South Carolina surrogacy lawyer. A knowledgeable lawyer can ensure the surrogacy agreement is comprehensive, protecting the interests of all parties involved.
Surrogacy Agreement
The U.S. District Court for the District of Charleston reviewed a gestational carrier arrangement in Mid-South Ins. Co. v. Doe. They determined the parties’ intentions in the surrogacy contract, affirming its legality. This ruling makes surrogacy contracts legally recognized in the state.
Parentage Orders
Obtaining a pre-birth order is a crucial aspect of South Carolina’s surrogacy regulations. This legal document, issued by a court, designates the intended parents as the child’s legal parents before birth. It is essential for a smooth transfer of parental rights from the surrogate to the intending parents.
To secure a pre-birth order in South Carolina, certain conditions must be met:
● Consent from the surrogate and her spouse, if applicable, is required.
● The child and the intended parents must share genetics, either through one or both intended parents.
● Each party must have its own South Carolina surrogacy lawyer, including the intended parents, the surrogate, and her spouse, if applicable.
● Pre-birth orders minimize potential legal issues by streamlining the legal process and guaranteeing the intending parents complete parental rights from the time of birth.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost In South Carolina?
South Carolina is a welcoming destination for surrogacy, thanks to its established legal framework and professional services.
The surrogacy cost in South Carolina typically ranges from $90,000 to $150,000, depending on various factors like agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical expenses, and legal processes.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the cost of surrogacy in South Carolina and offers insights to help intended parents budget effectively.
Breakdown of Surrogacy Costs in South Carolina
Understanding the components of the surrogate cost in South Carolina is essential for financial planning:
- Agency Fees
Surrogacy agencies handle matching, coordination, and support throughout the journey. These services cost between $15,000 and $30,000. - Surrogate Compensation
Surrogates in South Carolina typically receive a base compensation of $40,000 to $60,000, along with additional payments for allowances and contingencies. - Medical Costs
Expenses for IVF treatments, embryo transfers, and prenatal care range from $30,000 to $50,000. - Legal Fees
Drafting contracts, securing pre-birth orders, and other legal services cost between $8,000 and $15,000. - Insurance and Miscellaneous Costs
Additional expenses like health insurance, travel, and counseling amount to $10,000 to $20,000.
Average Cost of Surrogacy in South Carolina
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
| Agency Fees | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Surrogate Compensation | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Medical Costs | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Legal Fees | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Insurance & Miscellaneous | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $90,000 – $150,000 |
Factors That Influence Surrogacy Costs in South Carolina
The cost of surrogacy in South Carolina varies based on:
- Surrogate’s Experience
First-time surrogates may have lower compensation compared to experienced ones. - Medical Complications
If additional medical procedures, like multiple IVF cycles, are needed, costs will rise. - Insurance Coverage
Some surrogates may require supplemental insurance, which increases expenses. - Location of Intended Parents
International or out-of-state intended parents may need to account for extra travel and accommodation costs.
Cost-Saving Strategies for Surrogacy in South Carolina
Here are some tips to manage the surrogate Price in South Carolina:
- Choose a Known Surrogate
Opting for a family member or friend as a surrogate can save on agency fees and compensation. - Bundle Services
Agencies and clinics often offer bundled packages that reduce overall expenses. - Work with Local Clinics
Using South Carolina-based fertility clinics can help avoid travel-related costs. - Explore Financing Options
Many agencies and clinics provide payment plans to spread the cost over time.
Cost-Saving Strategies Table
| Strategy | Potential Savings (USD) |
| Use a known surrogate | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Opt for bundled packages | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Use local fertility clinics | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Explore financing options | Flexible monthly payments |
The surrogacy cost in South Carolina ranges from $90,000 to $150,000, depending on individual circumstances and choices. With the right planning, guidance, and resources, intended parents can embark on their surrogacy journey with confidence and clarity.
Who can do surrogacy in South Carolina
There are several reasons why intended parents choose surrogacy in South Carolina, including:
Infertility: A person or couple may experience infertility for a variety of reasons, such as endometriosis, low sperm count, urethral stricture, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Medical reasons: Some women are affected by conditions like cancer or heart transplants.
LGBT couples: For many same-sex couples, surrogacy can make motherhood a reality.
Women who have experienced repeated miscarriages: Women who don’t want to take needless medical risks might still enjoy the benefits of parenting with the assistance of a surrogate mother.
Intended parents may select surrogacy in South Carolina for several reasons, such as:
● Not a uterus
● structural issues about the uterus
● Endometriosis
● advanced age of the mother
● challenging previous pregnancies
● Delivery-related issues
● severe medical issues
● Repeated IVF failures and miscarriages
Gestational Surrogacy Process in South Carolina for intended parents.
The South Carolina surrogacy procedure is a meticulous undertaking that encompasses multiple crucial phases. An outline of the process for surrogacy in the Palmetto State is provided below.
Outlines the surrogacy process timeline for intended parents:
| Stage | Description of Stage | Duration |
| Research Phase | Explore family building options and decide on surrogacy. | Personal timeframe |
| Consultation and Application | Choose a surrogacy agency, sign agreement, and start embryo creation (if needed). | 1-3 Months |
| Matching | Agency finds and presents potential gestational carriers. Meet and decide on a match. | 3-6 Months |
| Medical Screening and Contracts | Carrier undergoes medical and psychological screening. Sign surrogacy contract. | 1-2 Months |
| Embryo Transfer | Prepare for embryo transfer. Success may take multiple attempts. | 1-1.5 Months |
| Pregnancy | Gestational carrier’s pregnancy, approximately 40 weeks. | 9-10 Months |
| Birth and Postpartum | Baby’s birth, establish parental rights, and postpartum period. | 1.5-3 Months |
Please keep in mind that the durations mentioned in the table are approximate and can vary depending on individual circumstances and other factors. Always consult with a reputable surrogacy agency or professional to get personalized guidance throughout the surrogacy journey.
During your procedure for surrogacy in South Carolina, you will go through seven steps. These typical steps in surrogacy consist of:
1. Determine whether or not surrogacy in South Carolina is the best option for you and your family.
2. Locate a surrogacy agency to get ready for the surrogacy process.
3. Look for a surrogate who possesses the traits you find admirable.
4. Meet your legal criteria for surrogacy, see a surrogacy lawyer, and execute a contract. Know about gestational surrogacy laws in South Carolina.
5. Launch the medical surrogacy procedure.
6. Enjoy spending time with the surrogate before delivery.
7. After the baby is delivered, get your legal parentage orders.
Intended parents can embark on the transformative journey of parenthood through surrogacy in South Carolina. This life-changing procedure empowers surrogates to bestow the gift of life. IVF Conceptions is committed to offering as much empowerment and fulfillment as possible throughout this journey.
Find Surrogate Mother In South Carolina
For couples contemplating surrogacy, the quest for a surrogate can be the most daunting task. The role of a surrogate is not trivial, and local restrictions on professional guidance and compensation can deter many. Nonetheless, resources exist to aid those determined to start their family.
1. Agencies specializing in surrogacy often have pre-approved surrogates ready to be matched with intended parents. While these services may be pricier than self-directed searches, they can expedite and secure the process of finding a surrogate.
2. Another avenue for locating a surrogate is through fertility clinics. Inquiring about potential gestational surrogates in your clinic’s database can be beneficial. However, not all clinics facilitate this matching, so confirmation with your specialist is crucial.
3. For legal assistance, some attorneys maintain lists of potential surrogates. Many surrogacy attorneys collaborate with other legal professionals, clinics, and matching specialists to aid in finding surrogates.
4. If you prefer an identified or independent surrogacy, consider a family member or friend. This approach is more common than you might think, and many agencies can assist with the remaining steps after identifying a surrogate.
Top Affordable Surrogacy Destinations- Cheapest Countries for Surrogacy
Below is a look at some of the most cost-effective international surrogacy destinations, including their processes, costs, legal frameworks, and eligibility criteria.
1. Surrogacy in Mexico
- Surrogacy Process: Surrogacy in Mexico is mostly unregulated, except in specific states like Tabasco, where arrangements are managed through private agreements with clinics.
- Cost Range: The typical cost of surrogacy in Mexico ranges from $60,000 to $80,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is limited to heterosexual married couples or single parents, depending on the state.
- Eligibility Criteria: Legal contracts are mandatory, and intended parents should collaborate with experienced lawyers to ensure enforceability.
2. Surrogacy in Colombia
- Surrogacy Process: Altruistic surrogacy is permitted in Colombia, supported by legally binding contracts and access to affordable IVF treatments.
- Cost Range: The cost of surrogacy in Colombia generally ranges between $60,000 and $70,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is available to heterosexual couples and single parents.
- Eligibility Criteria: There are no citizenship requirements, but contracts must adhere to Colombian legal standards.
3. Surrogacy in Georgia (country)
- Surrogacy Process: Georgia has clear and established surrogacy laws, ensuring that agreements are legally binding.
- Cost Range: The total cost of surrogacy in Georgia typically falls between $50,000 and $70,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is restricted to heterosexual married couples, with parental rights granted solely to the intended parents.
- Eligibility Criteria: Couples must provide a marriage certificate proving at least one year of partnership.
4. Surrogacy in Ukraine
- Surrogacy Process: Previously a favored destination, Ukraine offered transparent procedures and robust legal protections before the geopolitical crisis.
- Cost Range: Surrogacy costs in Ukraine typically range from $50,000 to $70,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is restricted to heterosexual married couples, with surrogates having no parental rights.
- Eligibility Criteria: Intended parents must be married heterosexual couples and provide proof of medical necessity for surrogacy.
5. Surrogacy in Armenia
- Surrogacy Process: Armenia offers legal certainty through its surrogacy laws, making it an increasingly popular choice for intended parents.
- Cost Range: Surrogacy in Armenia typically costs between $50,000 and $70,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is available exclusively to heterosexual married couples.
- Eligibility Criteria: Couples must be married, and the female partner must be under the age of 53.
6. Surrogacy in Argentina
- Surrogacy Process: Altruistic surrogacy is common, though contracts are not legally enforceable. Intended families collaborate closely with surrogates and clinics.
- Cost Range: The typical cost of surrogacy ranges from $50,000 to $70,000.
- Legal Framework: While there are no explicit surrogacy laws, it is recognized under family law and open to all family types, including LGBTQ+ couples.
- Eligibility Criteria: Working with legal experts is essential to navigate the informal surrogacy framework effectively.
7. Surrogacy in India
- Surrogacy Process: India has reopened surrogacy exclusively for Indian citizens, focusing solely on altruistic arrangements.
- Cost Range: The cost of surrogacy in India typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000.
- Legal Framework: Surrogacy is limited to heterosexual married Indian couples, NRI, or OCI cardholders who meet specific conditions. Commercial surrogacy is strictly prohibited.
- Eligibility Criteria: Intended parents must hold Indian citizenship, NRI, or OCI status and provide medical documentation demonstrating the need for surrogacy.
Comparative Table: Surrogacy Costs in the USA and Surrogacy Abroad Countries
| Country | Cost Range | Legal Framework | Eligibility Criteria | Key Feature |
| USA | $120,000–$200,000 | Fully regulated, binding | Open to all family types | High-quality medical and legal services |
| Mexico | $60,000–$80,000 | Semi-regulated, binding in parts | Heterosexual married couples, singles | Lower costs and proximity for Americans |
| Colombia | $50,000–$70,000 | Binding legal contracts | Open to heterosexual couples, singles | Affordable and accessible IVF treatments |
| Georgia | $40,000–$60,000 | Strict legal framework | Heterosexual married couples | Strong legal protection |
| Ukraine | $40,000–$70,000 | Strict legal framework | Heterosexual married couples | Transparent and reliable processes |
| Armenia | $50,000–$70,000 | Strong legal protections | Heterosexual married couples | Growing popularity with legal certainty |
| Argentina | $40,000–$60,000 | Informal, family law-based | Open to all family types | LGBTQ+ friendly with affordable options |
| India | $25,000–$40,000 | Strict, altruistic only | Indian citizens only | Most affordable option for eligible parents |
Looking for the best Surrogacy clinic / Surrogacy agency abroad?
We are here to help with more than 15 years of experience in offering safe, reliable and affordable surrogacy options globally.
We analyze your needs, budget planning, egg donor availability, destination preferences with legal framework and find top surrogacy country and agencies for you!
Our consulting services are free of cost and do not affect your costing in any way but help you to save tons of research time and money.
Additional guide for intended parents:
Conclusion
Surrogacy in South Carolina, surrogacy offers a safe and legal pathway to achieving your family-building goals, despite the absence of specific legislation. It is imperative to work with a knowledgeable expert, as surrogacy laws are subject to change.
Our Complete Surrogacy Consulting Services /Case Management cover a wide range of services globally, including:
✓ Guide and Support to choose the secure and legal surrogacy program
✓ Surrogacy clinic and agency recommendations
✓ Legal support and referrals
✓ Logistic support/planning
✓ Surrogacy agency liaison
✓ Financial planning/financial aids
✓ Citizenship and passport assistance
✓ Case management
✓ Shipment assistance
✓ Collaborations with third-party support (if you have your own clinic/agency to make sure your program is done properly)
✓ Quick and transparent communication
At COMPLETE SURROGACY our goal is to ensure a affordable, reliable, smooth and supportive experience as you start this remarkable journey towards parenthood. If there are any specific questions, concerns, or details you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
We are happy to assist you with one of our global surrogacy programs best suited you your personal and legal needs. I am here to assist you every step of the way
Get in touch for a Free Surrogacy Consultancy:
📲 +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Frequently Asked Questions about Surrogacy in South Carolina
1. What is surrogacy and how does it work in South Carolina?
Surrogacy is a legal arrangement where a woman carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple. In South Carolina, surrogacy is permissible, involving a legal framework where a surrogate agrees to carry a child for the intended parents. The surrogacy process encompasses legal contracts, medical procedures, and surrogacy professionals to guide the journey.
2. What are the laws regarding surrogacy in South Carolina?
South Carolina surrogacy laws govern the legal aspects of surrogacy arrangements within the state. It is essential to consult with a surrogacy attorney to grasp the surrogacy laws in South Carolina and ensure compliance with all legal stipulations.
3. Can anyone become a surrogate in South Carolina?
To become a surrogate in South Carolina, one must meet specific criteria, including medical, emotional, and legal considerations. Those interested in gestational surrogacy undergo a comprehensive screening to assess their suitability. Understanding the compensation for the surrogate and having a gestational carrier agreement are crucial for determining the terms and conditions of the surrogacy process.
4. What is the process of surrogacy in South Carolina?
The process of surrogacy in South Carolina involves identifying a suitable gestational carrier, drafting a surrogacy agreement, and navigating legal and medical aspects with the aid of surrogacy professionals. It is vital to collaborate with experienced professionals to ensure a smooth and legal surrogacy journey.
Disclaimer:
All legal information on this website is intended only as a guide and is not a replacement for the opinions of licensed legal professionals/Medical professionals. Some information may have changed since the time of publication. We advise you to consult a licensed attorney/Medical expert with authority in fertility/surrogacy processes.
About Author:
Neelam Chhagani, MA (Counselling Psychology), PGD (Mental Health), and Holistic Infertility and Third-Party Reproduction Consultant.
Member of the European Fertility Society (EFS) and European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), Best Surrogacy Blogger for surrogacy and infertility treatment.
Highly esteemed, authoritative, and trusted professional with a 15-year of experience in international surrogacy and fertility medical tourism. Advocate for Secure, Legal, and Affordable International Surrogacy Globally.
I was introduced to Neelam by a friend who worked with Neelam for surrogacy. Neelam is absolutely wonderful. I am a single male and the journey to fatherhood is not that easy. Neelam connected me to a program ideal for my circumstances. She was with me throughout the pregnancy providing advice and guidance along the way. I am so grateful I found her and am thrilled today that I have a beautiful daughter. I highly recommend Neelam to anyone who is on a journey to become a parent. Having a child has changed my world for the better. I wish others success with their own journey and recommend you connect with Neelam to find a path that is best for you.
SA (USA)