Becoming a surrogate is more than a decision — it’s a mission of compassion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how and where to apply, what to consider, and what to expect through SurrogateFirst.
Why Apply to Be a Surrogate?
There’s no single reason women become surrogates — but there is a common thread: the desire to make a difference. Surrogacy is a deeply personal and fulfilling journey, and many surrogates say it’s one of the most meaningful decisions they’ve ever made. Whether you’re motivated by empathy, experience, or economics, the impact is immeasurable.
Some of the most common reasons to become a surrogate include:
- A deep desire to help a family grow
The core of surrogacy is the chance to give others something they can’t have on their own — the gift of a child. - Personal fulfillment and sense of purpose
Many surrogates describe a profound sense of purpose in playing such a meaningful role in someone else’s life. - A positive prior pregnancy experience
If you’ve had easy, enjoyable pregnancies, you may feel confident in your ability to carry again for another family. - Financial incentives to support your own family
Compensation allows you to contribute to household needs, pay off debts, save for future goals, or invest in your children’s education. - Empowerment through a unique life experience
The surrogacy journey can be emotionally enriching and life-changing in ways you never expected.
Where Can You Apply to Be a Surrogate?
Thanks to growing awareness and legal clarity in many regions, surrogacy is more accessible than ever. You don’t need to live in California to work with a reputable agency — in fact, SurrogateFirst helps women across the country and evaluates international applicants on a case-by-case basis.
You can apply through:
- Local surrogacy agencies like SurrogateFirst
Working with an agency gives you access to expert guidance, legal resources, and emotional support every step of the way. - From other U.S. states, as long as they’re surrogacy-friendly
States like California and Florida are the gold standard, but others like Nevada, Illinois, and Connecticut are also highly supportive. - Even if you live outside the country
International applicants may still be eligible, especially if they have U.S. citizenship or are able to travel for medical screenings and the embryo transfer. Legal and medical logistics are more complex, but SurrogateFirst can help you assess your options.
The bottom line? You don’t have to be local to apply — but the surrogacy laws in your region will affect your eligibility. That’s why working with a knowledgeable agency is essential.
What to Ask Yourself Before Completing a Surrogacy Application
Before beginning any journey, it’s important to reflect on what you’re hoping to give — and receive. Surrogacy is no different. It’s a major life decision that deserves thoughtfulness, honesty, and self-awareness.
Questions to ask yourself include:
- What am I looking for in my intended parents?
Are you hoping to match with a couple who shares your values or faith? Would you be comfortable helping LGBTQ+ parents or international families? - What am I looking for in my journey?
Do you want a close, communicative relationship with your intended parents, or would you prefer a more private journey? - Do I meet the requirements?
SurrogateFirst has clear qualifications to ensure the health, safety, and legality of every journey.
Check the Surrogate Requirements Here - Do I have a support network?
Having emotional, physical, and logistical support from a partner, family, or friends is essential — especially during appointments, travel, and postpartum recovery.
Taking time to think through these questions not only helps you prepare for the journey ahead but also ensures a more aligned and fulfilling experience.
Where to Complete a Surrogacy Application
Once you’re ready to begin, SurrogateFirst makes the application process simple, supportive, and stress-free. Everything is done online, and our team is available to guide you through each phase with compassion and clarity.
Here’s what the application process looks like:
- Pre-screening form
Start by filling out a quick online form to check if you meet the basic qualifications. - Full application
If eligible, you’ll move on to a more detailed application, sharing your medical history, prior pregnancies, lifestyle habits, and preferences. - Screening and matching
We’ll coordinate your medical and psychological evaluations, then work to match you with intended parents who align with your values and comfort level. - Match meeting
Once we find the right fit, you’ll meet the intended parents — either virtually or in person — to build mutual trust and connection. - Journey begins
After contracts are signed, you’ll begin medical protocols, undergo the embryo transfer, and move forward with full agency support until delivery and beyond.
Each step is designed with your safety, comfort, and goals in mind. And the best part? You’ll never go through it alone.
Ready to see if you qualify? Start your pre-screening application here — it only takes a few minutes and helps us determine if surrogacy is right for you.
Why Apply with SurrogateFirst?
Choosing an agency isn’t just about process — it’s about people. At SurrogateFirst, we’re proud to be founded by former surrogates and parents who understand how personal this journey is. We’re more than a service provider — we’re your team, your advocates, and your biggest cheerleaders.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Fast, values-based matching
We carefully match you with intended parents who reflect your preferences and priorities. - Competitive compensation
You’ll receive generous base pay plus additional benefits like monthly allowances, travel reimbursement, and wellness support. - Multilingual support
We offer services in English, Spanish, and Chinese to ensure that every surrogate feels understood and valued. - 24/7 emotional support
Whether you need to vent, ask a question, or celebrate a milestone — we’re here for you anytime. - No out-of-pocket medical costs
All medical expenses are covered, including screenings, fertility treatment, prenatal care, and delivery.
We treat every surrogate like family — because without you, families wouldn’t be possible.
Want to dive deeper into the journey? Check out our full guide on how to become a surrogate to learn more about the path, benefits, and responsibilities.
Take the First Step Today
Even if you’re just exploring surrogacy, completing the pre-application is a simple and pressure-free way to see if you’re eligible. Our team will review your information and help you understand your options, timelines, and next steps. And if you decide to move forward? We’ll be with you from that first form to the final push — and every heartbeat in between.
Apply to Become a Surrogate Now
Or get answers to real surrogate questions in our Surrogacy FAQ page
