Who Can Opt for Altruistic Surrogacy? Eligibility, Rules & Requirements

For many couples in India, altruistic surrogacy becomes a life-changing path toward parenthood when every other option seems out of reach. The emotional and physical struggles of infertility often lead couples to explore this option, especially when medical conditions prevent a safe or successful pregnancy. But altruistic surrogacy in India is governed by strict laws designed to ensure transparency, ethical practices, and the well-being of both the surrogate and intended parents.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy in India

Altruistic surrogacy is permitted under India’s Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. It allows a woman to carry a child for another couple without any monetary compensation, except for essential medical expenses and insurance. The intention behind this model is to eliminate commercial exploitation and promote an ethical, compassionate approach to surrogacy.

Because of this, both intended parents and surrogates must meet specific eligibility criteria before the process can legally begin.

Who Are the Intended Parents?

The law clearly defines the profile of intended parents who can pursue altruistic surrogacy:

1. Married Indian Couples

Only heterosexual married couples who are Indian citizens can opt for altruistic surrogacy. They must have been married for at least five years, ensuring stability and commitment.

2. Age Requirements

Both partners must fall within the legal age bracket:

• Wife: 23 to 50 years

• Husband: 26 to 55 years

These limits ensure a safe and responsible environment for raising a child.

3. Proven Medical Need

The couple must provide medical evidence confirming that pregnancy is either impossible or unsafe for the woman. Common reasons include:

• Absence of a uterus

• Multiple IVF failures

• Severe health conditions

• High-risk medical complications

A fertility specialist at a trusted centre, like Surrogacy Centre India, helps evaluate this eligibility and issues the required medical certification.

4. No Existing Child

The couple must not already have a biological, adopted, or previously surrogated child.
Exception: If their existing child suffers from a life-threatening, incurable, or severe physical/mental disability.

Who Can Be a Surrogate Mother?

The surrogate plays a central role, and her eligibility is tightly regulated to ensure her health, safety, and autonomy.

1. Must Be a Close Relative of the Couple

The surrogate must be a close family member offering help of compassion—not for profit.

2. Age & Marital Status

She must be:

• 25 to 35 years old

• A married woman

• A mother of at least one biological child

3. Can Only Be a Surrogate Once

This rule prevents repeated physical strain or exploitation.

4. Medical & Psychological Fitness

She must pass thorough health screenings. At the best surrogacy centre in Delhi, such as Surrogacy Centre India, both medical and emotional evaluations are conducted to ensure she is fully prepared for the journey.

The Legal Foundation

The process requires:

• A surrogacy certificate of eligibility

• Medical and psychological fitness reports

• Government approval

• Mandatory health insurance for the surrogate

• Formal legal agreements between both parties

Surrogacy Centre India provides complete support to ensure every legal step is completed correctly and efficiently.

Why Surrogacy Centre India Stands Out

Surrogacy Centre India combines medical excellence with ethical, transparent surrogacy programs. Their team guides couples through eligibility checks, legal documentation, medical procedures, and surrogate care with compassion and clarity. With advanced IVF technology, experienced fertility specialists, and strong legal adherence, Surrogacy Centre India ensures that every surrogacy journey is safe, respectful, and emotionally supported.