Connecticut Surrogacy Laws 2026

Understanding surrogacy laws in Connecticut

Connecticut surrogacy laws are among the most supportive and clearly defined in the United States, offering Intended Parents and Surrogates a safe, transparent path to building families. Whether you’re considering surrogacy as a way to grow your family or you’re inspired to help others as a Surrogate, you can feel confident knowing Connecticut’s legal framework is designed to protect everyone involved. The state’s approach is rooted in respect, clarity, and inclusivity—ensuring that every journey is guided by compassion and legal certainty.

Connecticut’s surrogacy laws are primarily governed by Chapter 818 of the Connecticut General Statutes, which explicitly recognizes and regulates gestational surrogacy agreements. This legal clarity means Intended Parents and Surrogates can move forward with peace of mind, knowing their rights and responsibilities are clearly outlined from the very beginning.

Types of surrogacy recognized in Connecticut

Connecticut law recognizes and supports gestational surrogacy, which is the most common and legally secure form of surrogacy in the state. In gestational surrogacy, the Surrogate (also called a gestational carrier) has no genetic relationship to the child—embryos are created using the Intended Parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm.

Key points about surrogacy laws in Connecticut:

• Gestational surrogacy is fully legal and protected. Connecticut statutes (notably Section 46b-531) explicitly allow for gestational carrier agreements, provided all legal requirements are met.
• Traditional surrogacy is not addressed by statute. While not expressly prohibited, traditional surrogacy (where the Surrogate’s own egg is used) is less common and carries more legal uncertainty. Most agencies and legal professionals recommend gestational surrogacy for its clear protections.
• Both compensated and altruistic surrogacy are permitted. Surrogates may receive reasonable compensation for their time, effort, and medical expenses, as long as the terms are clearly outlined in the legal agreement.

By focusing on gestational surrogacy, Connecticut ensures that all parties—Intended Parents, Surrogates, and, most importantly, the child—are protected by a clear, enforceable legal process.

Who can become a Surrogate or Intended Parent in Connecticut

Connecticut’s surrogacy laws are designed to be inclusive, welcoming a diverse range of families and individuals. The state sets forth specific eligibility criteria to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Intended Parents

• Marital status: Both married and unmarried individuals or couples are eligible.
• Sexual orientation: Connecticut does not discriminate—LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are fully supported.
• Genetic connection: Intended Parents do not need to have a genetic link to the child; donor eggs, sperm, or embryos may be used.

Surrogates (gestational carriers)

• Age: Surrogates must be at least 21 years old.
• Health: A thorough medical and psychological screening is required to ensure the Surrogate is physically and emotionally prepared.
• Previous pregnancy: Surrogates should have had at least one prior successful pregnancy and delivery.
• Legal capacity: Surrogates must be able to enter into a legal contract and provide informed consent.

These requirements are in place to protect the health, rights, and emotional well-being of both Surrogates and Intended Parents. At every step, Connecticut’s process is designed to foster trust, transparency, and mutual respect.

Establishing parentage and birth certificate procedures

One of the most reassuring aspects of surrogacy laws in Connecticut is the clear, court-approved process for establishing parentage. This means Intended Parents can be recognized as the legal parents from the very start—providing peace of mind and security for all.

How parentage is established

• Pre-birth orders: Intended Parents can obtain a pre-birth parentage order from the court, typically during the second trimester. This order names them as the legal parents before the child is born.
• Birth certificate: After the birth, the Intended Parents’ names are placed directly on the child’s birth certificate, with no need for adoption or additional legal steps.
• Inclusivity: Both married and unmarried, same-sex and opposite-sex Intended Parents are eligible for pre-birth orders.

This streamlined process ensures that the child’s legal parentage is never in question, and that all parties are protected from the very beginning. These safeguards are in place to support your family’s journey with confidence and clarity.

Protections and rights for Surrogates and Intended Parents

Connecticut’s surrogacy laws are built on a foundation of fairness, safety, and respect for everyone involved. The state’s legal requirements are designed to ensure that Surrogates and Intended Parents are fully informed, protected, and empowered throughout the process.

Key protections include:

• Comprehensive legal agreements: All surrogacy arrangements must be governed by a written contract, reviewed and signed by both parties before any medical procedures begin. Each party must have independent legal counsel.
• Clear compensation guidelines: Surrogates are entitled to reasonable compensation, as outlined in the agreement, covering medical, legal, and living expenses.
• Informed consent: Surrogates and Intended Parents must receive thorough counseling and give informed, voluntary consent.
• Medical and psychological support: Both parties have access to medical and psychological screening and support, ensuring everyone’s well-being is prioritized.
• Enforceability: Connecticut courts recognize and enforce gestational carrier agreements, providing legal certainty and peace of mind.

These protections reflect Connecticut’s commitment to safe, ethical, and transparent surrogacy journeys. At Hatch, we honor these standards by guiding you with expertise, compassion, and unwavering respect for your unique path to parenthood.

Begin your surrogacy journey in Connecticut with confidence

Choosing surrogacy is a profound and personal decision—one that deserves the highest level of care, clarity, and support. Connecticut’s surrogacy laws offer a secure, inclusive foundation for your journey, and at Hatch, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our team combines legal expertise with heartfelt compassion, ensuring your experience is safe, transparent, and deeply respected.

Ready to take the next step?
Trust Hatch to be your partner in building the family you’ve dreamed of. Reach out today to begin your surrogacy journey in Connecticut with confidence, care, and the assurance that your rights and dreams are protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are Connecticut surrogacy laws friendly to LGBTQ+ families?
  Yes, surrogacy laws in Connecticut are fully inclusive, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and couples as Intended Parents with equal rights and protections.
• Is traditional surrogacy legal in Connecticut?
  While not expressly prohibited, traditional surrogacy is not addressed by statute and carries more legal uncertainty. Gestational surrogacy is strongly recommended for its clear legal protections.
• How is parentage established for Intended Parents in Connecticut?
  Intended Parents can obtain a pre-birth order, allowing their names to be placed directly on the birth certificate at birth—no adoption required.
• Can Surrogates in Connecticut be compensated?
  Yes, Surrogates may receive reasonable compensation for their time, effort, and expenses, as long as it is clearly outlined in the legal agreement.
• What legal protections exist for Surrogates in Connecticut?
  Surrogates are protected by comprehensive contracts, independent legal counsel, and access to medical and psychological support throughout the process.