Intercountry adoption and international surrogacy

Here’s some general advice about travelling overseas for adoption or surrogacy.

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Before you start

Intercountry adoption and international surrogacy can both be complicated and require the involvement of several New Zealand agencies.

Before you decide to undertake an intercountry adoption or travel overseas for surrogacy, you should do some research. Make sure any arrangements you make are legal and ethical. You should get independent legal advice. 

Intercountry adoption

New Zealand has agreements with 6 contracting states through the Hague Convention:

  • Chile
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Philippines
  • Lithuania
  • Thailand.

These are the only contracting states where a New Zealander can apply to adopt a child who is not related to them. Each state has their own requirements and processes.

You should check with Oranga Tamariki prior to taking steps to progress an overseas adoption as these programmes are subject to change.

Find out more about adopting a child from another country on the Oranga Tamariki website.

Surrogacy

International surrogacy is a complex and evolving area which raises significant legal and social issues.

You must get independent legal advice. Find out about New Zealand surrogacy law and the law of the country where the arrangement will take place. 

If you are overseas for the purpose of surrogacy, you should:

  • Learn and follow the laws of the country you are in
  • Have access to enough money and have a comprehensive travel insurance policy
  • Register your details with us.

If you are considering an international surrogacy arrangement, read the information on the Oranga Tamariki website.

How a New Zealand embassy can help

New Zealand embassies, high commissions and consulates are there to help New Zealand citizens when they’re having difficulty overseas.

Find a New Zealand embassy

A New Zealand consular officer can:

  • Give you a list of English-speaking lawyers
  • Help with notarial assistance including certifying true copies of documents or witnessing signatures. Fees may apply.

A New Zealand consular officer cannot:

  • Provide legal advice
  • Get involved in the intercountry adoption or surrogacy process.

More information

Oranga Tamariki has prepared fact sheets with more information.

Information Fact Sheet: International Surrogacy

This fact sheet outlines the key issues for New Zealanders to consider and get advice on when considering commissioning a surrogacy arrangement overseas.

Information Fact Sheet: Intercountry Adoption

This fact sheet provides information for New Zealanders who are thinking about adopting a child from another country.