Bringing Your Surrogacy Baby Home from the US: Tips for International Parents

The United States is one of the safest and most popular places for surrogacy, with 47 states allowing or facilitating commercial surrogacy. For international parents, bringing your surrogacy baby home from the US can be both exciting and challenging. This article will guide you through key steps like surrogacy newborn insurance for international parents and how to navigate US parental rights for international surrogacy.

Preparing for Your Surrogacy Journey

Before your surrogate gives birth, ensuring that your legal parental rights are established is critical. Every child born in the US automatically becomes a US citizen, but it’s essential to confirm whether your country recognizes US parental declarations. Some countries require a second-parent adoption, while others may recognize US parental rights, simplifying the process of taking your baby home.

Key Considerations:

• Work with a local family law attorney to ensure your parental rights are recognized both in the US and your home country.
• Confirm your baby’s legal status before birth to avoid complications later.

Surrogacy Newborn Insurance for International Parents

One of the most important steps for international parents is securing newborn insurance. Many insurance policies for surrogacy need to be purchased well before the birth, often as early as two months before embryo transfer. Without this coverage, parents could face significant medical costs for their newborns.

Insurance Tips:

• Consult with an insurance expert to select a plan that fits your needs.
• Some plans can be purchased at different stages, but early preparation ensures your baby is covered from birth.

Travel and Accommodation for International Parents

Bringing your baby home requires planning for a stay of 3 to 6 weeks in the US to finalize all necessary legal processes. When preparing for your travel, consider the location of the birth and your proximity to essential services.

Accommodation Checklist:

• Find a place close to the hospital where your surrogate will give birth.
• Ensure access to food and transportation options.
• Plan for a flexible stay in case of any legal delays.

US Parental Rights for International Surrogacy

Many international parents need to navigate complex legal systems to ensure their parental rights are recognized in both the US and their home country. Some parents choose to apply for a US passport and birth certificate for their baby, while others may need to seek visas through their home country’s embassy.

Steps to Establish Parental Rights:

• Obtain your baby’s US birth certificate immediately after birth.
• Apply for a US passport if needed or arrange for a visa through your country’s embassy.
• Work with surrogacy agencies and legal experts to ensure all documentation is in place.

Preparing for Your Baby’s Flight Home

Traveling home with a newborn can be challenging. Be sure to pack all the essentials to keep your baby comfortable during the flight.

Checklist for Flying Home:

• Diaper bag with enough supplies for the journey.
• Formula or breast milk (with TSA-approved cold packs).
• A baby carrier for easy transport.
• Necessary documents, including the baby’s passport, visa, or other travel documents.
• Additional clothing, diapers, wipes, and blankets for comfort.