Michigan Surrogate Requirements: Do You Qualify?
August 7, 2025 by Frank Golden
If you’re considering becoming a Surrogate in Michigan, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: “Do I even qualify?”
That’s a completely natural place to start! Understanding Michigan surrogate requirements helps you evaluate whether this journey is right for you. And here’s the exciting news: since April 1, 2025, Michigan now legally supports gestational surrogacy under the Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act!
These requirements exist to protect you. They’re not hurdles designed to exclude people. They’re safeguards that help ensure you’re physically, emotionally, and legally prepared for this meaningful experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about qualifying as a Surrogate in Michigan. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Who Can Become a Surrogate in Michigan?
- Medical Requirements for Michigan Surrogates
- Psychological and Emotional Readiness
- Lifestyle and Stability Requirements
- Legal and Structural Considerations in Michigan
- Why Michigan Surrogate Requirements Are So Thorough
- Common Reasons Applicants May Not Qualify
- What Happens After You Meet the Requirements?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Surrogate Requirements
- Deciding Whether Surrogacy Is Right for You
Who Can Become a Surrogate in Michigan?
Let’s start with the basics! Michigan law now clearly outlines who can become a gestational Surrogate.
Age requirements: You must be at least 21 years old. Most agencies and fertility clinics prefer Surrogates between 21 and 40, though individual circumstances may vary.
Prior pregnancy: You must have previously given birth to at least one child. This isn’t arbitrary! It confirms your body has successfully carried a pregnancy to term.
General health: You should be in good overall physical and mental health. This protects both you and any pregnancy you carry.
Citizenship or residency: You must be a U.S. citizen, legal resident, or legal immigrant. If you’re a legal resident or immigrant, you’ll need documentation valid for at least two years.
These baseline criteria help ensure you’re starting from a strong foundation. They’re the first step in a thorough but supportive screening process!
Medical Requirements for Michigan Surrogates
Your health is the top priority throughout any surrogacy journey. That’s why medical screening is such an important part of the process!
Pregnancy history matters. Having at least one healthy, uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery demonstrates that your body responds well to pregnancy. Clinics look for smooth deliveries without major complications like preeclampsia or preterm birth.
Physical health evaluation. You’ll complete a comprehensive medical evaluation. This typically includes bloodwork, infectious disease screening, and a review of your medical history. The goal is to confirm you’re healthy enough for pregnancy.
BMI considerations. Many fertility clinics have BMI guidelines, usually between 19 and 33. This isn’t about appearance! It’s about reducing pregnancy risks and improving embryo transfer success rates. If you’re close to the threshold, don’t worry. Some clinics have flexibility based on your overall health picture.
Fertility clinic screening. The fertility clinic working with your Intended Parents will conduct their own screening. This may include a uterine evaluation to ensure your uterus is healthy and ready for embryo transfer.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), thorough medical screening protects everyone involved and leads to better outcomes.
Psychological and Emotional Readiness
Surrogacy is an incredible gift, but it’s also a significant emotional commitment. That’s why psychological screening is required!
Mental health consultation. Michigan law requires Surrogates to complete a mental health consultation. A licensed professional will meet with you to discuss your motivations, expectations, and emotional preparedness.
This isn’t about judging you. It’s about making sure you feel confident and supported!
Emotional preparedness. Can you handle the ups and downs of pregnancy while knowing the baby isn’t yours to keep? Most Surrogates describe the experience as deeply rewarding, but it’s important to reflect honestly on how you’ll feel.
Communication skills. You’ll be working closely with your agency, medical team, and potentially the Intended Parents. Open, honest communication makes everything smoother.
Support systems. Do you have family or friends who support your decision? Having people in your corner makes a real difference. At Golden Surrogacy, founder Frank Golden leads our team in treating every Surrogate like family. Our dedicated Care Team supports you throughout the entire journey!
Lifestyle and Stability Requirements
A stable environment helps ensure a healthy pregnancy and a positive experience for everyone.
Stable housing. You should have a safe, secure place to live throughout the pregnancy. This doesn’t mean you need a mansion! It simply means a stable home environment.
Reliable transportation. You’ll have medical appointments, screening visits, and potentially travel for the embryo transfer. Being able to get to appointments consistently is essential.
Family support. If you have a partner or spouse, they’ll need to support your decision. Many agencies require partners to participate in parts of the screening process.
No government assistance restrictions. Michigan guidelines typically require that Surrogates are not currently receiving cash assistance, welfare, public housing, or Section 8 benefits. This helps ensure financial stability during the journey.
Substance-free lifestyle. You must be a non-smoker and abstain from drugs and excessive alcohol. A healthy lifestyle supports a healthy pregnancy!
Want to learn more about what compensation looks like? Check out our Michigan Surrogate Compensation guide!
Legal and Structural Considerations in Michigan
Here’s some fantastic news: Michigan now fully supports gestational surrogacy!
The law changed in 2025. Under the Assisted Reproduction and Surrogacy Parentage Act, gestational surrogacy agreements are now legally enforceable in Michigan. Paid surrogacy is legal, and Surrogates have clear rights and protections.
Independent legal representation. Michigan law requires you to have your own attorney, licensed in Michigan, throughout the process. This attorney represents your interests only. The Intended Parents cover this cost!
Your rights are protected. Under the new law, you retain the right to:
- Make all health and welfare decisions about your pregnancy
- Choose your own healthcare provider
- Terminate the agreement without penalty before pregnancy occurs
Agency guidance is essential. Even with supportive laws, surrogacy involves complex legal documents. Working with an experienced agency like Golden Surrogacy ensures everything is handled properly. Our Agency Director is available via phone, text, and email whenever you have questions!
For a deeper dive into Michigan’s legal framework, read our Michigan Surrogacy Laws blog.
Why Michigan Surrogate Requirements Are So Thorough
You might wonder: why so many requirements?
Your health comes first. Every requirement exists to protect your physical and emotional well-being. Pregnancy is demanding, and surrogacy adds additional layers of complexity.
Risk reduction. Thorough screening reduces the chance of complications. This benefits you, the baby, and the Intended Parents.
Ethical standards. Reputable agencies uphold high ethical standards. At Golden Surrogacy, we believe surrogacy should always be a positive, empowering experience for Surrogates.
Legal protection. Proper screening and documentation ensure your rights are protected throughout the journey.
According to the CDC, healthy pregnancies start with proper preparation. That’s exactly what these requirements accomplish!
Common Reasons Applicants May Not Qualify
Not everyone qualifies right away, and that’s okay! Here are some common reasons:
- Medical history: Certain pregnancy complications or chronic health conditions may affect eligibility.
- BMI outside guidelines: Some clinics have specific ranges, though this varies.
- Recent pregnancy or breastfeeding: Most agencies ask that you wait until your youngest child is at least one year old.
- Lifestyle factors: Current smoking or substance use typically disqualifies applicants.
- Timing: Sometimes life circumstances mean this isn’t the right moment.
If you don’t qualify now, that doesn’t mean never! Circumstances change. We encourage you to revisit the possibility when the timing feels right.
What Happens After You Meet the Requirements?
Once you meet the basic requirements, here’s what comes next:
- Application review. Our team reviews your application and reaches out to discuss your interest.
- Pre-screening. We’ll conduct an initial screening to confirm eligibility.
- In-person screening. This must align with your menstrual cycle timing and includes medical evaluation at the fertility clinic.
- Legal review and education. You’ll work with your independent attorney to understand the surrogacy agreement. The legal process begins only after medical clearance.
- Matching. When the time is right, you may be matched with Intended Parents.
There’s never any pressure! Learn more about the full process on our Surrogacy Timeline page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Surrogate Requirements
Do I need to live in Michigan to be a Michigan Surrogate?
Not necessarily! However, Michigan’s laws apply to agreements executed in Michigan. Your agency can help determine the best approach based on your location.
Do I need prior pregnancy experience?
Yes! Michigan law requires that Surrogates have previously given birth to at least one child.
Can requirements vary by clinic?
Absolutely. While baseline requirements are consistent, individual fertility clinics may have additional guidelines.
Does Michigan law affect my eligibility?
Michigan’s new law actually makes surrogacy more accessible! The legal framework now protects Surrogates and provides clear guidelines.
What if I’m unsure I qualify?
Reach out! Our team is happy to answer questions and help you understand whether surrogacy might be right for you.
Deciding Whether Surrogacy Is Right for You
Understanding Michigan surrogate requirements is the first step toward making an informed decision.
Surrogacy is a deeply personal choice. There’s no rush! Take time to reflect on your motivations, talk with your family, and gather information.
If you’re curious about compensation, explore our Michigan Surrogate Compensation guide. For a complete overview of the journey, check out the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline.
When you’re ready to learn more, we’re here. Visit our Become a Surrogate page to start the conversation. No pressure, just support!
