What Are the Requirements for Surrogacy in Iran?

Ata Safarnezhad 28 November 2025

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Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a profound decision, and understanding the specific eligibility criteria is the first and most crucial step. The requirements for surrogacy in Iran are governed by a clear and well-established legal and medical framework, designed to protect the rights and well-being of all parties involved: the intended parents, the surrogate mother, and most importantly, the child. This framework, rooted in specific interpretations of Islamic law, makes gestational surrogacy a legally secure and accessible option, but exclusively for heterosexual married couples with a documented medical need.

For international couples considering this path, navigating foreign regulations can seem complex. However, Iran’s system is structured to provide clarity and security. The process meticulously vets both intended parents and potential surrogates to ensure that every journey is undertaken for the right reasons and with the highest standards of care. This comprehensive guide will detail the precise legal, medical, and social criteria for intended parents and the rigorous screening process for surrogates, offering a clear roadmap for getting approved for surrogacy in 2025.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Core Principles of Surrogacy Laws in Iran

The foundation of surrogacy in Iran rests on a permissive and regulated legal structure. Unlike many countries where surrogacy exists in a legal gray area, surrogacy laws Iran has in place are explicit, recognizing gestational surrogacy as a legitimate form of assisted reproductive technology. This legal recognition provides an immense degree of security for intended parents.

The core legal principles are straightforward and consistently enforced by the Iranian judicial system. Firstly, the practice is strictly limited to legally married heterosexual couples. This is a non-negotiable prerequisite, meaning that surrogacy for single parents Iran and same-sex surrogacy Iran are not permitted under current laws. Secondly, a comprehensive and legally binding contract is mandatory. This document is the cornerstone of the entire process, meticulously outlining the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved.

Critically, Iranian law recognizes the intended parents as the legal and genetic parents of the child from the moment of conception. The surrogate mother carries the pregnancy but has no genetic link to the child and, upon birth, has no legal parental rights. This legal clarity prevents potential custody disputes and ensures that the birth certificate is issued with the names of the intended parents, simplifying the process for international couples to obtain citizenship and travel documents for their newborn.

Who is Eligible for Surrogacy in Iran? Criteria for Intended Parents

To begin the surrogacy process in Iran, intended parents must meet a specific set of legal and medical requirements. These criteria are designed to confirm the couple’s eligibility and the medical necessity of the procedure, ensuring the system is used by those who genuinely need it.

Legal Requirements for Intended Parents

The legal prerequisites are the first hurdle in the qualification process. They establish the foundational eligibility of the couple according to Iranian law.

• Marital Status: The couple must be legally married and in a heterosexual relationship. This is the most fundamental legal requirement. Unmarried partners, single individuals, and same-sex couples are not eligible to pursue surrogacy in Iran.
• Proof of Marriage: A valid marriage certificate, officially recognized in the couple’s home country, is required. For international couples, this document must typically be translated into Persian and authenticated by the relevant authorities or the Iranian embassy in their country.
• Nationality: Surrogacy in Iran is open to both Iranian citizens and foreign nationals. The legal framework applies equally to all, ensuring international parents receive the same protections and rights as local citizens.
• Binding Legal Contract: Before any medical procedures commence, the intended parents and the surrogate mother (along with her husband) must sign a detailed surrogacy agreement. This contract is drafted by lawyers specializing in Iranian family law and is legally enforceable in court.

Medical Requirements for Intended Parents

Beyond the legal status, the couple must demonstrate a clear medical need for using a surrogate. Surrogacy is not considered an elective or “social” option in Iran; it is a medical treatment for infertility.

• Demonstrated Medical Necessity: The intended mother must have a confirmed medical diagnosis that prevents her from carrying a pregnancy safely to term. A formal letter or report from a qualified gynecologist or fertility specialist is essential. Common medical conditions for surrogacy that are accepted include:
• Absence of Uterus: This can be congenital (e.g., Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome) or due to a surgical hysterectomy performed for reasons like cancer or severe hemorrhage.
• Significant Uterine Abnormalities: Conditions like severe Asherman’s syndrome (scar tissue in the uterus), large, untreatable fibroids that distort the uterine cavity, or other structural defects can make implantation or carrying a pregnancy impossible.
• Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF): In cases where a woman has undergone multiple IVF cycles with high-quality embryos without achieving pregnancy, a uterine factor may be suspected, making surrogacy a valid option.
• Serious Medical Conditions: If the intended mother has a severe health issue, such as advanced heart or kidney disease, certain autoimmune disorders, or a history of cancer, where a pregnancy would pose a significant risk to her life, surrogacy is medically indicated.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Both intended parents must undergo comprehensive screening for infectious diseases, including HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis, to ensure they are not transmissible to the embryo or the surrogate.
• General Health and Capability: The intended parents must be in good overall physical and mental health. They must not have addictions to drugs or alcohol and must be deemed mentally and emotionally capable of raising a child.

The Surrogate Mother: Vetting and Eligibility Criteria

The selection of a surrogate mother is arguably the most critical component of a successful and safe surrogacy journey. Iranian clinics and agencies place a profound emphasis on the surrogate’s health and well-being, implementing a rigorous screening process. The surrogate mother requirements are designed to select candidates who are physically and emotionally prepared for the demands of pregnancy and the unique nature of the surrogacy arrangement.

This meticulous vetting process provides peace of mind to intended parents, assuring them that the woman carrying their child is healthy, supported, and fully committed to her role in the journey.

Medical and Physical Requirements for Surrogates

A candidate must be in peak physical condition to be approved as a surrogate. The medical screening is exhaustive to minimize risks to both the surrogate and the baby.

• Optimal Age Range: The ideal age for a surrogate in Iran is generally between 21 and 35. This window is considered the prime childbearing age, associated with a lower risk of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
• Proven Fertility and Pregnancy History: A cornerstone of the legal requirements for surrogacy is that a candidate must have experienced at least one previous healthy, full-term pregnancy and delivery. This proves her ability to carry a child to term and provides a track record of her obstetric health.
• Excellent Physical Health: All potential surrogates undergo a complete medical workup. This includes a thorough physical exam, blood tests, and a detailed gynecological assessment with an ultrasound to confirm a healthy, normal uterus capable of carrying a pregnancy. She must be free from chronic health conditions that could complicate a pregnancy.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Candidates must be non-smokers and must not use illegal substances or consume alcohol. A healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) is also strongly preferred, as it is linked to better pregnancy outcomes.
• Infectious Disease Screening: Just like the intended parents, the surrogate is rigorously screened for a full panel of sexually transmitted and other infectious diseases to ensure a safe environment for the developing fetus.

Psychological and Social Requirements for Surrogates

The emotional and social stability of a surrogate is just as important as her physical health. The psychological screening ensures she has the right motivations and a strong support system.

• Psychological Evaluation: A mandatory psychological assessment is conducted by a qualified mental health professional. This evaluation confirms that the candidate is emotionally stable, understands the full scope of her commitment, and has the resilience to handle the emotional complexities of carrying a child for another couple.
• Marital Status and Spousal Consent: In Iran, a surrogate must be married. Furthermore, her husband must be fully aware of and provide his formal, written consent for his wife to participate in the surrogacy program. This ensures she has support at home and prevents any future legal or domestic conflicts.
• Stable and Supportive Environment: The screening process assesses the candidate’s living situation. A stable home life and a strong support network from her family are considered vital for a positive and stress-free pregnancy.
• Clear Motivations: During counseling, the surrogate’s motivations are discussed. While compensation is legal and expected, clinics look for women who also express a genuine altruistic desire to help another family experience the joy of parenthood.
• No Criminal History: A background check is typically performed to ensure the candidate has a clean criminal record, adding another layer of security and trust to the process.

The Surrogacy Process: From Application to Approval

Understanding the practical steps involved can demystify the journey and help intended parents prepare for what lies ahead. The process of getting approved for surrogacy is methodical and guided by medical and legal professionals at every stage.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Documentation Review

The journey begins with an initial consultation, which can often be done remotely with a reputable Iranian fertility clinic or a medical tourism facilitator. During this phase, you will submit your preliminary medical records, including the diagnosis confirming the need for surrogacy, and a copy of your marriage certificate for review.

Step 2: In-Person Medical Evaluation and Confirmation

Once you travel to Iran, the intended parents will undergo a formal medical evaluation. The intended mother will have examinations to re-confirm the medical necessity, while the intended father will provide a semen sample for analysis. This step finalizes the medical file and confirms your eligibility for the program.

Step 3: Surrogate Matching and Selection

After you are officially approved, the clinic will begin the matching process. They will present you with profiles of several pre-screened surrogates who meet all the strict surrogate mother requirements. These profiles are anonymous but contain essential information about their health, pregnancy history, and background. You will have the opportunity to select the candidate you feel most comfortable with.

Step 4: Legal Formalities and Contract Signing

This is a critical legal phase. Lawyers representing both you and the surrogate will draft the comprehensive surrogacy contract. This document will cover all aspects of the arrangement, including the surrogate’s compensation, medical care plan, and the legal relinquishment of the child upon birth. The contract is signed by the intended parents, the surrogate, and her husband, and is then legally registered.

Step 5: The Medical Procedure and Pregnancy

With the legal framework in place, the medical process begins. The intended mother undergoes an IVF cycle to produce embryos using her eggs and her partner’s sperm. Simultaneously, the surrogate’s cycle is synchronized with medications. A healthy embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. She is then closely monitored throughout the pregnancy with regular check-ups to ensure her health and the baby’s development.

Legal Safeguards and Establishment of Parental Rights

One of the most significant advantages of pursuing surrogacy in Iran is the legal security it offers. The entire process is built on a foundation of legal clarity that protects the intended parents’ rights unequivocally.

The surrogacy contract is the primary legal instrument. It is a robust, enforceable document that leaves no room for ambiguity. It clearly stipulates that the intended parents are the sole legal parents of the child and details the surrogate’s obligation to hand over the baby immediately after birth. The Iranian courts have a long history of upholding these contracts, providing a powerful safeguard against any potential disputes.

After the child is born, the process of establishing legal parentage is streamlined. The hospital issues a birth notification, and based on the surrogacy contract and a court order, the official birth certificate is issued directly with the names of the intended parents. The surrogate’s name does not appear on this document, which is a critical distinction that simplifies obtaining a passport for the baby from your country’s embassy and ensures a smooth journey home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can a family member act as a surrogate in Iran?

Yes, it is possible for a relative, such as a sister or cousin, to act as a surrogate. However, she must meet all the standard eligibility criteria, including being of the appropriate age, having had a previous healthy pregnancy, being in excellent health, and being married with her husband’s full consent. She would undergo the same rigorous screening as any other candidate.

What happens if the surrogate mother changes her mind?

This is a common concern, but the legal framework in Iran provides strong protections. The surrogacy contract signed before the embryo transfer is legally binding and consistently upheld by Iranian courts. This contract explicitly states the surrogate’s obligation to relinquish the child to the intended parents, who are the sole legal parents. The risk of a surrogate changing her mind and succeeding in a legal challenge is virtually non-existent.

Do we need to use an Iranian egg or sperm donor?

No, the standard surrogacy process is gestational, meaning it is designed for the intended parents to use their own eggs and sperm. The child will be genetically related to both parents. However, if there is a medical need for an egg donor (e.g., the intended mother has poor egg quality), using a third-party egg donor in conjunction with surrogacy is also legally permitted in Iran.

How are surrogates compensated in Iran?

Both altruistic (uncompensated) and compensated surrogacy are legal in Iran. In practice, most arrangements are compensated. The financial agreement is clearly detailed in the legal contract and typically covers all medical expenses, maternity clothes, travel for appointments, nutritional support, and a base compensation for the surrogate’s time, effort, and commitment.

What documents are needed to take our baby home?

To travel home, you will need the baby’s official Iranian birth certificate, which will list you as the legal parents. With this document, you will apply for a passport for your child from your home country’s embassy or consulate in Iran. It is highly recommended to work with a facilitator or lawyer who is experienced in this process to ensure all paperwork is handled correctly for a smooth departure.

Summary and Conclusion

The requirements for surrogacy in Iran are specific, comprehensive, and purposefully designed to create a secure, ethical, and successful pathway to parenthood. Eligibility is clearly defined: the journey is open only to legally married heterosexual couples who can provide medical proof of their inability to carry a pregnancy. This strict focus, while excluding some individuals, provides an incredibly strong legal and social foundation for those who do qualify. The corresponding requirements for surrogate mothers are equally rigorous, prioritizing their physical, mental, and social well-being.

This structured approach, combining stringent medical conditions for surrogacy with robust legal requirements for surrogacy, ensures that every arrangement is transparent and enforceable. For eligible international couples facing the challenges of infertility, Iran offers a highly regulated, legally sound, and medically advanced environment to build their family with confidence and peace of mind.