As demand for assisted reproductive services continues to grow in China, overseas surrogacy has become an option considered by some families seeking alternative pathways to parenthood. Thailand and Georgia are two destinations that often attract attention, but they differ considerably in their legal environments, eligibility requirements, and available services.
For families who are unsure which destination may be more suitable, Jiabao Libao takes a closer look at an important question: What are the differences between surrogacy in Thailand and Georgia?
1. Different Legal Frameworks
Thailand introduced specific surrogacy regulations in 2015. Under the current framework, surrogacy is primarily available to eligible Thai married couples and certain couples in which one spouse is a Thai national. Foreign-only couples and same-sex couples have historically faced significant restrictions.
Georgia, by comparison, has had a legal framework governing surrogacy since 1997 and has permitted both compensated and altruistic surrogacy arrangements under specified conditions. For eligible intended parents, the law provides a defined pathway for establishing legal parenthood after the child is born, while the gestational carrier does not retain parental rights.
2. Different Eligibility Requirements
Thailand’s current surrogacy rules mainly apply to eligible Thai couples and certain foreign spouses married to Thai nationals. Proposed legal amendments have discussed expanding eligibility to legally registered same-sex couples and certain foreign married couples, although additional requirements may apply and any changes depend on the final legislation in force.
Georgia currently restricts surrogacy eligibility primarily to heterosexual couples who are legally married or can demonstrate an established cohabiting relationship. Single individuals and same-sex couples generally do not qualify under the standard Georgian pathway.
Some service providers may offer alternative arrangements through operations in neighboring countries such as Armenia, but these arrangements are subject to a different legal framework and should be evaluated separately.
Thailand or Georgia: How Should You Understand the Difference?
At present, Thailand is generally better understood as a destination for IVF treatment, embryo creation, genetic testing, and embryo management, while access to surrogacy itself remains subject to relatively strict eligibility requirements.
Georgia, on the other hand, has a more clearly established legal framework for gestational surrogacy and parental recognition for couples who meet the country’s eligibility requirements.
Therefore, the choice between Thailand and Georgia should not be based simply on which destination is more popular or less expensive. Intended parents should compare their legal eligibility, medical needs, embryo status, budget, and post-birth documentation requirements before making a decision.
If you are unsure which destination may be more suitable for your circumstances, you can contact us for more information. We can explain the general differences and help you better understand the available options.
