How long does the surrogacy process take in California?

The entire surrogacy journey typically takes 12-18 months from initial consultation to birth, depending on various factors including matching time and medical procedures.

What are the California surrogacy requirements to become a surrogate?

To become a surrogate in California, you must be between 21-40 years old, have had at least one successful pregnancy, maintain a healthy BMI, be a non-smoker, and live in a stable environment.

How much does surrogacy cost in California?

Total surrogacy journey costs typically range from $150,000 to $230,000+, including agency fees ($42,500), surrogate compensation, medical expenses, legal fees, insurance, and escrow. Every dollar is accounted for before you commit.

How much compensation do surrogates receive?

At On Fertility Ground, surrogates set their own base compensation rate — your worth, your choice. We never negotiate your rate down. Additional benefits include maternity clothing ($750-$1,000), monthly expense allowance ($250/month), embryo transfer fees, and more.

Eligibility

Do I Qualify? Gestational Surrogate Requirements in California

February 25, 2026 · 7 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

The eligibility requirements for gestational surrogacy exist to protect both the surrogate and the baby. Here is what is actually required.

Basic Requirements

Age 21-40
At least one prior successful pregnancy and delivery
Currently raising at least one child in your home
BMI within fertility clinic's acceptable range
Non-smoker, no recreational drug use
Stable living situation
U.S. citizen or permanent resident
No history of major pregnancy complications

Medical Screening

After matching, the fertility clinic performs a thorough medical screening including blood work, uterine evaluation, and infectious disease screening.

Psychological Screening

A licensed mental health professional evaluates your emotional readiness, support system, and understanding of the surrogacy process.

What Does Not Disqualify You

Prior C-sections (up to 2 accepted; 3 reviewed case-by-case)
Being on certain medications (evaluated individually)
Having had your tubes tied
Being a single mother
Your race, ethnicity, or cultural background

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

The eligibility requirements exist for real medical reasons, and we take them seriously. But we never tell a woman she is ineligible without the medical evidence to support it.

I have met women who assumed they did not qualify — because of a prior C-section, because of their BMI, because of a medication they take — and were wrong. The only way to know for certain is to go through the screening. Apply. Let the process give you a real answer based on your actual health.

— Bree | info@onfertilityground.com

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're considering surrogacy as a surrogate or an intended parent, we're here to answer every question personally.

Become a Surrogate Intended Parent Inquiry

Email us at info@onfertilityground.com — We answer every inquiry personally.