If you are in Calgary, Edmonton or anywhere in Alberta, surrogacy is very much possible. The process in Alberta has one important difference from Ontario, and I want you to know about it before you begin.
This is general information, last checked October 2026. It is not legal advice.
How the law works in Alberta
Surrogacy is altruistic across Canada under the federal Assisted Human Reproduction Act. A surrogate cannot be paid a fee, but she can be reimbursed for documented expenses.
In Alberta, parentage is governed by the Family Law Act. Intended parents generally need to apply to the court for a parentage order after the birth, rather than being recognized by consent alone. The details, including what applies when there is no genetic connection to either intended parent, are for your Alberta reproductive lawyer to confirm. Plan for the court step in your timeline.
Costs
A complete journey in Canada typically runs $80,000 to $120,000 CAD. CSO agency programs start from $1,500 (Independent Journey), $9,500 (Foundation), $19,500 (Guided Journey) and $29,500 (Priority Match), plus HST, paid in three equal stages. See our cost guide and the surrogacy cost calculator.
Add legal costs for the Alberta court application, and travel if your surrogate lives in another province.
IVF funding
Public funding for IVF in Alberta has historically been more limited than in provinces like Ontario and Quebec. Programs change, so check the Alberta government's current information and ask your clinic.
LGBTQ+ families in Calgary and across Alberta
Canadian law recognizes same-sex couples, single parents and families of many shapes. Gay couples will typically need an egg donor and a surrogate, and we can plan both together. See our guide for LGBTQ+ families.
Egg donation for Alberta families
Egg donation in Canada is altruistic, so donors are reimbursed for documented expenses and not paid. Our sister company Little Miracles matches intended parents with screened donors across the country. Read egg donation in Canada and egg donation costs.
Finding a surrogate
- Agencies like ours screen surrogates and manage matching, wherever you live. See how to find a surrogate in Canada.
- Independent journeys are possible. See surrogacy without an agency.
- Matching commonly takes 3 to 12 months, and cross-province matches are common.
If you want to become a surrogate in Alberta
You must be at least 21, and clinics generally prefer a prior healthy pregnancy and birth. Start with our self-check.
Book a free consultation at calendly.com/cso-robyn
From hope to heartbeat to home.