Choosing a Surrogacy Agency: Questions About Services, Costs and Accountability

An agency’s role can vary, so comparison should begin with the services it provides and the organizations responsible for treatment, legal advice and funds. These questions help you assess an offer, request evidence and understand what happens if plans change.

1. How long have you been working, and how many families have you helped?

Experience matters. Ask for the number of years in operation and the number of completed journeys, not just “programs started”.

2. Which clinic do you work with?

Ask for the clinic’s name, location and license. Visit its website and check its laboratory technology. Aurum coordinates programs with partner clinics in Yerevan; ask your coordinator for the clinic details at your consultation.

3. Am I legally eligible?

A serious agency explains the law honestly, including who is not eligible. Be cautious if an agency promises programs that Armenian law does not allow. See who can use surrogacy in Armenia.

4. How are surrogates recruited and screened?

Ask about age limits, medical and psychological screening, and whether surrogates have their own children. Also ask whether the agency receives commissions from the clinics or services it recommends.

5. How is the surrogate supported?

Ethical agencies care for the surrogate’s health, compensation and wellbeing. Ask whether she receives independent legal advice before signing her agreement.

6. How are my payments protected?

Ask whether surrogate funds are held in escrow, who manages the escrow account and when funds are released, and request a written payment schedule.

7. What is included, and what is not?

Get an itemised list. Typical exclusions are cesarean sections, care for twins, extra IVF cycles and travel costs. Read our guide to surrogacy costs in Armenia.

8. What happens if a transfer fails or the pregnancy is lost?

Understand exactly what is covered. A Guaranteed Baby program continues attempts on the terms of the contract, but pregnancy, live birth and a child’s health cannot be guaranteed.

9. Who will be my contact person?

A dedicated coordinator who knows your case is far better than a general inbox. Ask how quickly they respond and how often you receive updates.

10. How do you handle the birth certificate and travel documents?

The agency should know the procedures for your citizenship. See bringing your baby home from Armenia.

11. Can I talk to my surrogate?

Ask how communication is arranged and whether video calls and visits are possible.

12. Can I see the contracts before paying?

You should always be able to read the agency agreement, and ideally have it reviewed by your own lawyer, before any payment. Check how complaints are handled, how either side can end the agreement and what happens to payments already made.

Warning signs

• prices that seem far too low, with unclear inclusions,
• promises of programs the law does not allow, such as sex selection outside the narrow legal exceptions,
• pressure to pay quickly or in cash,
• no clear information about the clinic or the legal process.

Ask us anything

We are happy to answer all twelve questions for you. Request a free consultation with Aurum Health Global, or learn more about why families choose us.