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Surrogate Mother Requirements: Do You Qualify in 2025?

One of the most common questions we hear from women interested in surrogacy is: do I qualify? The requirements exist to protect your health, the baby's health, and the intended parents — and most healthy women who have had children are surprised to find they meet the criteria. Here's a complete breakdown of surrogate mother requirements so you can assess your eligibility before applying.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Surrogates must be between 21 and 40 years of age. You must have previously given birth to at least one child that you are currently raising — this confirms your body can carry a pregnancy to term and ensures you can make a fully informed decision. Most programs require a BMI between 19 and 32. Surrogates must be non-smokers and must not use recreational drugs or marijuana. You must not have a current diagnosis of a serious untreated mental health condition — well-managed depression or anxiety is generally acceptable.

Financial Requirements

Surrogates must be financially stable and not currently receiving government financial assistance such as Medicaid or food stamps. This requirement protects you: surrogacy compensation should be a meaningful addition to your life, not a financial lifeline. It does not mean you need to be wealthy — simply that you have a stable income and are not dependent on public assistance.

Health and Medical Requirements

You should not have serious unmanaged chronic health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders that could complicate pregnancy. Significant complications in previous pregnancies — such as severe preeclampsia or premature birth — may affect eligibility and are reviewed individually. All surrogates must complete a full medical evaluation at the intended parents' fertility clinic, paid for by the intended parents.

Lifestyle Requirements

You should have a stable living situation — a safe home environment for yourself and your family. Having a supportive partner or support network is strongly encouraged. Surrogates must agree to abstain from alcohol for the duration of the pregnancy. A background check is conducted as part of the screening process.

The Screening Process: What to Expect

Once you submit an application, the screening process includes: initial application review, a phone consultation with a coordinator, background check, psychological evaluation with a licensed mental health professional, medical screening at the fertility clinic (paid by intended parents), and legal review. The entire process typically takes 4–8 weeks from application to clearance.

Unsure if you qualify? Speak with a coordinator for a free, honest assessment — no obligation.

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