Surrogacy in Albania- Your Comprehensive Guide to Ethical Surrogate Motherhood in Albania
Albania is positioned in south-eastern Europe and is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea to the west, Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, the Republic of North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. Tirana, the capital of Albania, similar to all other European leading cities has never-ending energy. In this guide, we’ll delve into detail about surrogacy in Albania with the legal landscape, types of surrogacy arrangements, costs, and benefits, and ensuring as an intended parent you can make informed decisions on your path to parenthood.
As a leading authority in assisted reproductive technologies, we understand the intricacies of the surrogacy journey and aim to provide you with accurate and valuable information.
Many intended parents inquire about surrogacy processes, often believing that the United States or Canada are their only alternatives. IVF Conceptions recognizes that due to personal circumstances, doors to surrogacy might be unfairly closed in other countries. We strive to offer alternative destinations, like Albania, where the cost is significantly lower compared to the USA.
Surrogacy in Albania-An Overview
Surrogacy in Albania-An OverviewAlbania, despite lacking specific surrogacy regulations, has emerged as a viable option for intended parents seeking a more affordable journey.
Albania is a new but growing destination for medical tourism of infertility treatment and surrogacy. Albania is also part of those countries where surrogacy is not regulated by law.
In Albanian legislation, the concept of surrogacy and surrogate mothers has not been a subject of specific elaboration.
There are no provisions about surrogacy in Albanian legislation. The Law on Reproductive Health is written in a very general way and doesn’t have clear requirements even about egg donation. Besides this, many IVF clinics provide such services as IVF with egg donation and surrogacy in Albania due to the parents’ requests.
Now, as per the discussion with the existing IVF clinics or surrogacy clinics in Albania, the surrogacy process consists of Medical procedures carried out locally and the surrogate mothers travel from adjacent countries like Georgia or Ukraine. This is more like a “Hybrid Program” carried out in many countries by many surrogacy service providers. The concept of a local Albanian surrogate moth is not seen as of now. But, of course, if surrogacy in Albania becomes regulated, there might be a more active role played by local surrogate mothers and local surrogacy agencies.
The idea behind the “Hybrid Surrogacy Program” are as below:
- To make the surrogacy process more legally compliant. Those countries which do not allow surrogacy legally, do just the IVF process, and actual embryo transfer of embryos is done in another country where it is legal to do surrogacy.
- To reduce the cost of surrogacy: In countries like the US, where the cost of medical procedures is much higher. The IVF is done or embryos are created in nearby countries like Mexico and a US surrogate mother then travel for transfer.
- For gay couple’s surrogacy program: There are few countries where gay surrogacy is not allowed but surrogacy is possible for hetero couples. In such a country IVF is done but actual surrogacy pregnancy and baby delivery is done in another country where there are no surrogacy laws, or available to gay couples. The Czech Republic, Albania, and Poland are just examples of such arrangements.
We highly recommend you contact an experienced lawyer in Albania before undergoing a surrogacy program there due to the unclear legal framework. It is important to clearly understand the surrogacy process step by step with the local service providers.
More resources for gestational surrogacy:
Surrogacy agencies and services in Albania
Surrogacy process step by step
Surrogacy success rates and statistics
Surrogacy vs. adoption: pros and cons
International surrogacy options
Is surrogacy legal in Albania?
The only mention of surrogacy in Albanian legislation appears in Article 261 of the Family Code, where it is indicated that surrogacy adoption applies to the same rules, as adoption in general.
From this statement, it can be concluded that at the end of any surrogacy process in Albania, an adoption procedure is needed. It includes obtaining the Adoption Committee’s consent for the adoption and the court hearing like many other countries. This means it might take more baby exit time after the birth of the baby to get the full legal parentage of the baby and travel documents.
The only document to regulate relationships between the Intended Parents and the Surrogate mother is the “surrogacy agreement”. However, it is not clear if such an agreement could be enforceable and what if the surrogate changes her mind. So, there has to be good faith and trust between both parties.
Additionally, as there is no recognized procedure for obtaining the birth certificate in case of the birth of a baby via surrogacy, a civil birth certificate is given in the name of the woman, who delivered the baby (the surrogate mother), and the name of the genetic father of the child.
Albania’s unique legal situation prompts many questions about registration and parental rights. Following the birth, the intended parents must register the child in the civil registry. The birth certificate reflects both the intended father and surrogate mother, facilitating the registration process.
It is emphasized to obtain the surrogate mother’s waiver for potential future adoption processes.
Source: http://ijern.com/journal/2019/February-2019/06.pdf
How much is surrogacy cost in Albania?
The Total Cost of Surrogacy in Albania is in the range of €58000 to €68000.
It is possible to have slight changes in the actual cost on the basis of the intended parent’s requirement and the number of tries.
For a surrogacy cost breakdown of your specific case, please contact us. The options of surrogacy in Albania are available to singles, hetero couples, gay couples, and transgender.
More resources:
Advantages and Disadvantages of Albania’s Surrogacy
Advantages
- Inclusive of various family structures: married couples, unmarried couples, and single men can embark on the surrogacy journey.
- Cost-effectiveness: Programs in Albania range from 80,000€ to 85,000€, a significant reduction compared to other destinations.
- Comprehensive programs: Some packages include unlimited embryo transfers and IVF attempts, ensuring your best chances of success.
- Insurance coverage: Certain programs offer insurance for surrogate mothers, donors, and unexpected events, ensuring peace of mind.
Disadvantage
While Albania offers a cost-effective and accessible surrogacy option, it is good to acknowledge the importance of proper legal documentation and subsequent adoption procedures in your home country.
Conclusion
In countries where surrogacy is not regulated the legal status of a child born through a surrogacy agreement will be determined by the general laws on legal parenthood. No explicit surrogacy laws mean to secure their parenting rights, the intended parents need to depend on the surrogate mother’s approval.
Albania is a country where surrogacy is not regulated by law, thus, not encouraging it or not stopping it.
Surrogacy is mentioned in Article 261 of the Family Code, which provides for surrogacy adoption and also makes reference to the Law on Reproductive Health (Law no 9062 “Family Code”, 2003).
However, neither the Law on Reproductive Health nor any other laws regulate any form of surrogacy – commercial or altruistic, thus leaving it open to interpretation by the service providers or surrogacy seekers.
This law does not mention the term and conditions of a surrogacy agreement that may be concluded between a surrogate mother and intended parents, but it does not prohibit it either.
Only the chapter on transitional provisions of the Law on Reproductive Health contains an article that appoints the Ministry of Health as the authority responsible for determining specifics relating to a surrogacy adoption (Law no 8876 “On Reproductive Health”, article 43/c, 2002).
At this point, it is required that Albanian legislator intervenes by regulating surrogacy which lays down the legal and ethical clarity around the process of surrogacy in Albania.
We believe that every journey to parenthood is unique and deserves the utmost care, support, and guidance. With a commitment to providing reliable information and empathetic assistance, we’re dedicated to helping you make the best choices for your family. Surrogacy in Albania offers a promising path, and IVF Conceptions is here to walk it with you.
If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website: IVF Conceptions. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.
FAQs About Surrogacy in Albania:
What is surrogacy and how does it work?
Surrogacy is an arrangement where a woman, known as the surrogate mother, carries and gives birth to a child on behalf of another person or couple (intended parents).
There are two main types: traditional surrogacy (surrogate’s own egg) and gestational surrogacy (using intended parents’ or donor eggs).
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate’s womb is used, but the embryo is not genetically related to her. The process involves medical procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) to implant embryos into the surrogate’s uterus.
Is surrogacy legal in Albania?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in Albania. However, intended parents need to know that there is no law to allow or prohibit surrogacy. It is good that you check with your local country attorney and also a reliable surrogacy agency in Albania to discuss your specific case for surrogacy beforehand.
How does the surrogacy process ensure ethical considerations?
The surrogacy process ensures ethical considerations through legal regulations, medical screenings, and informed consent of all parties involved.
Surrogacy agreements often outline the rights and responsibilities of both the surrogate and intended parents, prioritizing the well-being of the child and the emotional, physical, and financial interests of all parties.
What are the eligibility criteria for intended parents and surrogates?
Eligibility criteria for intended parents and surrogates may vary but generally involve factors like age, health, mental well-being, and legal standing. Intended parents usually undergo thorough assessments, and surrogates need to meet specific health and lifestyle requirements to ensure a safe and successful pregnancy.
How does the cost of surrogacy in Albania compare to other countries?
The cost of surrogacy in Albania may vary, but it often tends to be more affordable compared to many Western countries. Factors influencing cost include medical procedures, legal fees, agency charges, and compensation for the surrogate
Are there any support networks or resources for individuals considering surrogacy?
Yes, there are support networks, agencies, and resources available for individuals considering surrogacy. Local and international surrogacy agencies can provide guidance on the process, legalities, and connecting with suitable surrogates.
Online forums, counseling services, and legal professionals specializing in reproductive law can also offer valuable information and assistance.
