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

International Intended Parents: A Guide to California Surrogacy from Abroad

March 18, 2026 · 9 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

Families from around the world choose California surrogacy specifically because of its clear legal framework and strong protections — regardless of the intended parents' nationality.

Legal Protections for International Families

Pre-Birth Orders available to non-U.S. citizens
Both parents named on the birth certificate
No requirement for genetic connection to the child
LGBTQ+ families treated equally under California law

U.S. Citizenship

A baby born in California is a U.S. citizen by birth, regardless of the parents' nationality. Consular processes for your home country may vary.

Logistics

OFG coordinates everything remotely. Most international intended parents travel to California 2-3 times: for the match meeting, for the birth, and optionally for the embryo transfer.

Costs

The same transparent cost structure applies. Additional expenses may include travel, temporary housing near the hospital, and international legal consultation for your home country's parentage recognition.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

International families often arrive with an extra layer of anxiety — being far from home, navigating a different legal system, worrying about whether their family will be recognized when they return. I understand that anxiety, and addressing it is a core part of our consultation process.

California's legal framework is the strongest in the world for this purpose. And at OFG, your coordinator will be your guide through every logistical and emotional complexity that comes with building your family across borders.

— 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.