Becoming a Surrogate in Louisiana - Complete Guide
Legal status
Restrictive; only altruistic gestational surrogacy for married heterosexual couples
Compensation
$0 - $0
Surrogacy-friendly
No
Surrogacy in Louisiana: What You Need to Know
Louisiana has significant legal restrictions on surrogacy. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate or pursuing surrogacy as an intended parent, it’s essential to understand Louisiana’s unique legal landscape before proceeding.
Legal Status of Surrogacy in Louisiana
Louisiana’s surrogacy laws are among the most restrictive in the United States.
- LA RS 9:2718-2720
- Commercial surrogacy prohibited
- Only married heterosexual couples may use gestational surrogacy
- Traditional surrogacy void
Important: Compensated surrogacy is prohibited. Only altruistic gestational surrogacy is permitted for married heterosexual couples using their own genetic material. Louisiana residents who wish to be surrogates typically work with out-of-state agencies.
What This Means for Surrogates
Due to these restrictions, compensated gestational surrogacy is either prohibited or legally uncertain in Louisiana. Many Louisiana residents who wish to become surrogates work with agencies based in surrogacy-friendly states like California, Texas, or Illinois.
Alternative Options
If you live in Louisiana and want to become a surrogate, you have several options:
- Work with an out-of-state agency — Many agencies accept surrogates from Louisiana and match them with intended parents in surrogacy-friendly states
- Consult a surrogacy attorney — Laws can change, and an experienced reproductive law attorney can advise you on current options
- Consider neighboring states — Some nearby states have more favorable surrogacy laws
Requirements for Louisiana Residents
Even when working with out-of-state programs, standard surrogate requirements apply:
- Age: 21-40 years old
- BMI: Under 33
- Prior births: At least 1 successful pregnancy
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- No smoking or drug use
- Stable living situation
Check if you meet the basic BMI requirements with our free calculator.
Compensation for Louisiana Surrogates (Working Out-of-State)
While compensated surrogacy may not be available within Louisiana, surrogates from Louisiana who work with out-of-state agencies typically earn:
- Base compensation: $35,000 - $55,000
- Experienced surrogates: Additional $5,000+
- Monthly allowance for pregnancy-related expenses
- All medical expenses covered by intended parents
Use our Compensation Calculator to get a personalized estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is surrogacy legal in Louisiana?
Restrictive; only altruistic gestational surrogacy for married heterosexual couples. It’s crucial to work with an attorney who specializes in reproductive law to understand your options.
Can I be a surrogate if I live in Louisiana?
Yes, many Louisiana residents successfully become surrogates by working with agencies in surrogacy-friendly states. You don’t need to live in the state where the surrogacy takes place.
How much do surrogates from Louisiana earn?
When working with out-of-state agencies, surrogates from Louisiana typically earn $35,000 to $55,000 in base compensation, plus additional benefits.
What states near Louisiana are surrogacy-friendly?
Several states have clear, favorable surrogacy laws. Check our state-by-state guide to find the best options near you.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Fill out this form and a surrogacy specialist will contact you.