Become a Parent in California through Surrogacy

California stands out as one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the U.S., with clear laws and strong protections designed specifically for intended parents. By choosing a trusted California surrogate agency like Hatch, you can embark on your family-building journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Whether you reside in California or are seeking to match with a surrogate here, Hatch’s experienced team will support you through every step—from matching and screening to legal guidance and clinic coordination. Discover what to expect and how we’ll be by your side when you start your surrogacy journey with Hatch.

The Surrogacy Process for Intended Parents in California

At Hatch, we work closely with intended parents to make the surrogacy journey as clear, supported, and stress-free as possible. From selecting the right surrogate to coordinating legal and medical milestones, your dedicated case manager will be by your side with warmth, expertise, and care. Our team focuses on every detail, so you can focus on what matters most—building your family. Here’s what the surrogacy journey looks like for intended parents in California:

Application & Initial Consultation: Share your hopes and preferences with our experienced team and learn more about the process.
Background Check, Financial Screening & Legal Preparation: We ensure a secure, ethical, and transparent foundation for your journey, guiding you through all necessary screenings and legal steps.
Egg Donor Matching and/or Embryo Creation: If needed, we’ll help you find the ideal egg donor and coordinate with your fertility clinic for seamless embryo creation.
Surrogate Matching: Get expertly matched with a thoroughly screened surrogate whose values align with yours.
IVF Cycle & Embryo Transfer: Your surrogate begins the medical process, with our team overseeing each milestone.
Pregnancy Monitoring & Support: Receive regular updates, ongoing support, and compassionate guidance throughout the pregnancy.
Birth & Postpartum: We're here to support you through hospital planning, the birth experience, and post-birth logistics.

Matching with a Surrogate in California

We know how deeply meaningful it is to find the right surrogate—someone who truly understands and supports your dreams of parenthood. At Hatch, we’re honored to guide you through this pivotal step, taking the time to get to know you, your values, and your hopes for the journey ahead.

Your dedicated matching specialist will thoughtfully consider every detail, from communication style and lifestyle preferences to legal requirements and medical background, ensuring an ideal emotional and practical fit. Many intended parents discover a genuine, lasting connection with their surrogate—one that begins with a careful, compassionate match.

Gestational Surrogate Requirements in California

At Hatch, every surrogate undergoes an extensive screening process to ensure she is physically, emotionally, and legally prepared for the journey ahead. Our commitment to safety and quality means intended parents can feel assured that only the most qualified surrogates are accepted and matched. You can trust that each surrogate meets strict eligibility standards before being welcomed into our program.

Here are the core qualifications required to become a gestational surrogate in California:

U.S. Citizen

Surrogacy requires long-term residency or US citizenship due to the extensive nature of the medical and legal process.

Age 21-42

Surrogates must fall within this age range to support healthy pregnancies and outcomes.

Healthy Pregnancy History

Each surrogate has had at least one uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery and be raising a child of their own.

Healthy BMI (Max 32)

A stable and healthy body mass index supports positive fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

Healthy and Stable Lifestyle

Surrogates must live in a supportive, drug-free, and stable environment, both emotionally and physically.

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How Much does Surrogacy Cost in California?

Surrogacy is both a deeply personal journey and a significant financial commitment. We understand the importance of clarity and reassurance when it comes to the costs involved. That’s why we offer a truly all-inclusive surrogacy package, covering both medical and non-medical expenses, with no surprises.

Our Baby Guarantee Package covers:

Surrogate Compensation
Egg Donor Compensation (up to $10,000 per Retrieval)
All IVF Fees including Medications
Unlimited Transfers until Live Birth
Unlimited 100% Free Rematching
Legal for Surrogate, Donor and Intended Parents
Surrogate Medical Costs
Lost Wages and Bedrest
Surrogate, Egg Donor & Companion Travel
No Added Cost for International Intended Parents
And more!

From your very first consultation through to holding your baby in your arms, Hatch is here to support you with financial clarity and genuine peace of mind.

Learn More About Surrogacy Costs & Expenses

Learn about our all-inclusive pricing packages for egg donation, surrogacy, and IVF, what they include, and your options for building your family.

Peace of Mind Program ➜

Financing Surrogacy in California

Surrogacy is a meaningful investment—both emotionally and financially. At Hatch, we understand this, which is why we’ve partnered with Sunfish to help make financing your surrogacy journey more accessible and manageable. Through our partnership with Sunfish, you’ll have access to free quotes, helpful resources, and personalized financial guidance tailored to your unique needs. We want you to feel empowered to explore your options confidently and without pressure.

Learn More About Your Surrogacy Financing Options ➜

Intended Parent Requirements in California

For the safety and well-being of everyone involved, intended parents must meet the following basic requirements to qualify for our surrogacy program. At Hatch, we’re dedicated to ethical, responsible surrogacy practices that protect intended parents, surrogates, and children alike.

Maximum Age of 55 (or Combined 110 for Couples): Ensures intended parents are physically and emotionally prepared for the surrogacy journey.

Two PGT-A Tested Embryos: Intended parents must have two genetically tested embryos to be matched with a surrogate. (We can accept those with one or no embryos, but parents must be willing to create additional embryos while on the match list.)

Medical Need: Single men, gay couples, or individuals biologically unable to carry a pregnancy are presumed to have a qualifying medical need.

Open, Respectful Communication: Intended parents should be willing to maintain positive, respectful contact with their surrogate.

English Language Proficiency: Necessary to ensure clear and reliable communication throughout the journey.

Background Check: Required to promote safety and transparency for all parties.

Psychological Preparedness Evaluation: Confirms emotional and mental readiness for the surrogacy process and parenthood.

FAQs about California Surrogacy

What makes California a favorable state for surrogacy?

California has some of the most supportive and clear surrogacy laws in the country, protecting the rights of intended parents regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or genetic connection. This legal clarity gives families peace of mind throughout their journey.

How does the legal process work for securing parental rights in California?

We have lasting relationships with some of the best attorneys in reproductive and family law to guide you every step of the way.

Do I need to be a California resident to work with a California surrogate?

No, you do not need to live in California to work with a California surrogate. We welcome intended parents from across the U.S. and around the world who wish to benefit from California’s surrogacy-friendly environment.

What support does Hatch provide throughout the surrogacy journey?

At Hatch, we offer comprehensive support including matching, legal coordination, emotional guidance, and ongoing communication. We’re dedicated to making your experience as smooth and reassuring as possible, every step of the way.

What are the costs involved with surrogacy in California?

Surrogacy costs in California vary depending on factors like surrogate compensation, medical expenses, and legal fees. We provide transparent estimates upfront and help you understand all aspects of the investment in your family’s future.

Can LGBTQ+ intended parents pursue surrogacy in California?

Absolutely. California’s laws fully support LGBTQ+ individuals and couples in building their families through surrogacy, and Hatch is proud to welcome and support all intended parents on their path to parenthood.

Can I be a single parent by choice?

Yes, we are happy to work with single parents by choice, as long as you meet our intended parent requirements.

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