The Surrogacy Process in 2026: A Complete Guide with ACRC Surrogacy
- ACRC Global
- Jan 13
- 5 min read
Surrogacy in 2026 is defined by greater transparency, clearer legal pathways, and a stronger emphasis on ethical coordination. Intended Parents today are actively seeking clear answers to questions such as how long surrogacy takes, who is responsible for medical and legal steps, how parental rights are established, and how costs are managed.
ACRC Surrogacy is a family building agency that coordinates and supports surrogacy journeys. While ACRC Surrogacy does not provide medical, legal, or financial services directly, the agency works closely with fertility clinics, independent attorneys, and licensed escrow providers to help guide Intended Parents and Surrogates through a structured and ethically grounded process.
This guide explains how surrogacy works in 2026 and how ACRC Surrogacy supports families from the first consultation through birth and beyond. To learn more about beginning your journey, visit ACRC Global’s Start Your Parenthood Journey page.

Who ACRC Surrogacy Supports in 2026
ACRC Surrogacy supports a diverse, global community of families, including:
Intended Parents pursuing surrogacy in the United States
Single Intended Parents
Each journey is supported through an inclusive, respectful, and transparent approach focused on ethical coordination and individualized care.
The ACRC Surrogacy Process Step by Step in 2026
Understanding how surrogacy works is one of the most common searches among Intended Parents in 2026. Below is a clear overview of the process when working with ACRC Surrogacy.
Initial Consultation and Education
The surrogacy journey begins with an initial consultation. During this stage, Intended Parents learn more about the surrogacy process, estimated timelines, cost categories, and the roles of each professional involved and set up clear expectations.
ACRC Surrogacy provides guidance and coordination to help families make informed decisions before moving forward.
Matching With a Gestational Carrier
Matching is one of the most important stages of surrogacy. In 2026, many Intended Parents prioritize compatibility, communication preferences, and shared expectations.
ACRC Surrogacy facilitates introductions between Intended Parents and Gestational Carriers based on mutual preferences and values, helping establish trust and a strong foundation for the journey.
You can learn more about this process on the ACRC Global Surrogacy Services page.
Medical Screening and Psychological evaluation (Coordinated)
Once a match is confirmed, medical screening is conducted by the Intended Parents’ IVF clinic. The fertility clinic determines medical eligibility and readiness for embryo transfer.
Psychological evaluations are completed by qualified independent professionals.
Legal Agreements
After medical and psychological clearance, each party works with independent legal counsel to draft and review the surrogacy agreement. ACRC Surrogacy does not provide legal services or draft contracts.
Embryo Transfer and IVF Graduation
Once legal agreements are finalized, ACRC Surrogacy works closely with the Intended Parents’ IVF clinic to coordinate embryo transfer scheduling. All medical procedures, treatment protocols, and pregnancy monitoring are handled exclusively by licensed medical providers.
After approximately 12 weeks of pregnancy, the Gestational Carrier typically graduates from the IVF clinic and transitions to routine prenatal care with her chosen obstetric provider. ACRC Surrogacy continues to support communication and coordination during this transition to ensure clarity and continuity for all parties.
Establishing Parental Rights During Pregnancy
Establishing parental rights is one of the most important legal milestones in the surrogacy process and a common question among Intended Parents in 2026.
Independent attorneys prepare and file the necessary court documents to ensure the Intended Parents are legally recognized as the child’s parents prior to birth whenever possible.
ACRC Surrogacy coordinates timelines and communication between legal professionals and Intended Parents but does not provide legal services or legal advice.
Pregnancy Support and Ongoing Coordination
Throughout pregnancy, ACRC Surrogacy provides consistent case management and coordination. While all medical care is managed by healthcare providers, ACRC Surrogacy supports the journey by:
Maintaining open communication between Intended Parents and the Gestational Carrier
Coordinating updates and scheduling milestones
Providing emotional support and guidance throughout each trimester
This ongoing coordination helps ensure that expectations remain aligned and that everyone feels supported through every stage of pregnancy.
Birth and Postpartum Support for Surrogates
ACRC Surrogacy continues its support through delivery and into the postpartum period.
After birth, ACRC Surrogacy provides postpartum support for Surrogates through continued communication, check ins, and coordination of post birth logistics outlined in the legal agreement. While medical recovery is managed by healthcare providers, ACRC Surrogacy remains a supportive point of contact as Surrogates transition out of pregnancy.
Surrogacy Timelines in 2026
One of the most common searches among Intended Parents is how long surrogacy takes. While every journey is unique, timelines can vary widely depending on matching availability, medical readiness, and legal requirements.
In many surrogacy programs, preparation and matching alone can take up to six months or longer. Through proactive planning and experienced coordination, ACRC Surrogacy typically completes the preparation and matching phase within approximately 1 to 4 months.
A general surrogacy timeline includes:
Preparation and matching: approximately 1 to 4 months with ACRC Surrogacy
IVF and embryo transfer: dependent on clinic readiness
Pregnancy: approximately 9 months
Parental rights establishment: often completed during pregnancy
Post birth steps: vary by jurisdiction
Surrogacy Costs and Financial Transparency in 2026
Surrogacy costs vary based on medical needs, legal requirements, and individual circumstances. ACRC Surrogacy does not manage funds directly. Instead, the agency works with licensed third party escrow providers who handle all financial transactions related to the surrogacy journey.
Intended Parents have full access to escrow transaction records, ensuring transparency and clarity throughout the process. ACRC Surrogacy provides education and coordination around cost categories and timing so families can plan responsibly.
For an overview of cost considerations, visit the ACRC Global Surrogacy Costs page.
Legal and Ethical Standards at ACRC Surrogacy
Ethical surrogacy remains central to ACRC Surrogacy’s mission. The agency emphasizes informed consent, legal compliance, respectful treatment of Surrogates, and clear communication at every stage of the journey.
By working exclusively with independent medical professionals, legal counsel, and escrow providers, ACRC Surrogacy ensures that each party’s role is clearly defined and responsibly managed.
International and Cross Border Surrogacy in 2026
Many Intended Parents pursue surrogacy across borders in 2026. ACRC Surrogacy supports international families by coordinating communication, documentation timelines, and professional connections across regions and time zones.
This coordination helps international Intended Parents navigate U.S. based surrogacy with confidence, clarity, and consistent support.

What Sets ACRC Surrogacy Apart in 2026
Families choose ACRC Surrogacy for its:
More than a decade of experience in ethical surrogacy
Dedicated case management and structured coordination
Global experience supporting international families
Transparent processes and clear communication
Commitment to supporting both Intended Parents and Surrogates
ACRC Surrogacy’s focus is not only on outcomes, but on supporting each journey with responsibility, compassion, and trust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy in 2026
How long does surrogacy take in 2026? While timelines vary, most journeys include 1 to 4 months for preparation and matching, followed by pregnancy and post birth steps.
Who handles medical screening for the Surrogate? All medical screening is conducted by the Intended Parents’ IVF clinic.
How are finances managed during surrogacy? All financial transactions are managed by a licensed escrow company, with full transparency for Intended Parents.
When are parental rights established? Parental rights are typically addressed during pregnancy, often around 20 to 24 weeks, depending on jurisdiction.
Moving Forward With ACRC Surrogacy in 2026
Surrogacy in 2026 is defined by experience, ethics, and coordinated care. ACRC Surrogacy is proud to support Intended Parents and Surrogates through every stage of the journey with clarity, compassion, and global expertise.
If you are considering surrogacy in 2026, explore your next steps on the ACRC Global Start Your Parenthood Journey page.
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