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.

Intended Parents

How Long Does the Surrogacy Process Take from Start to Finish?

March 8, 2026 · 8 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

One of the first questions every intended parent and every potential surrogate asks: how long does this actually take?

Phase 1: Consultation & Application (2-4 weeks)

Initial conversations, paperwork, and intake for both parties.

Phase 2: Matching (1-3 months)

Finding the right match based on shared values, compatibility, and preferences. This is deliberately not rushed.

Phase 3: Legal Contracts (4-8 weeks)

Independent attorneys for both parties draft, negotiate, and finalize the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement. Escrow account is fully funded after contract signing.

Phase 4: Medical Clearance & Transfer (2-6 weeks)

Surrogate begins medication protocol. Embryo transfer occurs. Two-week wait for pregnancy confirmation.

Phase 5: Pregnancy (9 months)

Standard prenatal care with regular OB visits and OFG coordinator support throughout.

Phase 6: Pre-Birth Order & Delivery

PBO filed around week 28-32. Baby arrives. You go home as a family.

Total Timeline

12 to 18 months from consultation to delivery is the typical range. Some journeys are shorter; some take longer — particularly if multiple embryo transfers are needed.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

The length of this process is not a bug — it is a feature. The matching phase takes time because a careful match is a protected match. The legal phase takes time because a thorough contract is a protective contract.

Every week of this process exists for a reason. If you are the kind of person who needs certainty about timing, I understand. Reach out and let's talk about where you are and whether this is the right time to start.

— 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.