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IVF Abroad: Costs, Risks, and How to Choose the Right Clinic

Thinking about IVF abroad? Whether you’re exploring more affordable options, faster timelines, or more inclusive care outside the UK, we’re here to help you navigate the process.

Author

Tassia O’Callaghan

Reviewed by

Kayleigh Hartigan

18 min read

Updated 24 October 2025

Treatment Spotlight:

  • IVF treatment can be significantly more affordable abroad, even once you’ve factored in travel and accommodation. Some clinics offer fixed-price packages that include medication, scans, and additional support. [1]

  • Many international clinics have shorter waiting lists than the NHS, meaning you could start treatment within weeks instead of months — ideal if time or emotional energy is a factor.

  • Eligibility criteria vary by country. In the UK, clinics must comply with strict safety regulations — and factors like age, BMI, or medical history may limit access because they can affect treatment outcomes and success rates. Some clinics abroad follow different guidelines and may offer greater flexibility.

  • Some overseas clinics offer a broader range of treatments, including embryo adoption, double donation, or immune therapies. These may not be available in the UK — though not all are evidence-based, so it’s worth checking with trusted sources like the HFEA. [2,3,4,5,6]

  • Legal frameworks differ from country to country. This can open up options like anonymous donation or embryo storage rules that aren’t permitted in the UK.

Why consider IVF abroad?

For many, looking beyond the UK for fertility treatment isn’t just about cost — it’s about choice, timing, and feeling seen. IVF abroad can open up options that feel more aligned with your needs, values, and timeline.

A potentially lower-cost option

IVF abroad can often be more affordable than private treatment in the UK. Here, a full cycle — including pre-treatment tests, medication, and long-term embryo storage — typically costs an average of £7,545. In countries like Greece, Spain or the Czech Republic, some clinics offer package deals that appear significantly cheaper, even once travel and accommodation are factored in. [1]

That said, it’s important to look closely at what’s included. While some clinics offer clear pricing, others may not list costs upfront or may charge extra for essentials like medication, embryo freezing, or additional scans. If you’re comparing options, ask for a full breakdown — and don’t be afraid to double-check the fine print.

More inclusive criteria

Some clinics abroad offer care to those turned away in the UK due to age, BMI, relationship status, or medical history. If you’ve been told you’re not eligible for treatment at home, exploring clinics abroad can give you another way forward.

Quicker access to care

One thing we often hear from our community is how much quicker things can move abroad. For some, it’s just a few weeks between first contact and starting treatment — which can feel like a lifeline if you’re already in limbo or have faced delays in the UK. That said, timelines vary from clinic to clinic, so it’s always worth asking what’s typical and what could affect your own start date.

Expanded treatment choices

Techniques like double donation, embryo adoption, or adjuvants like immune therapy may not be available or widely offered in the UK. Abroad, you might have access to a broader range of options — and that can make all the difference depending on your fertility path. However, it’s worth noting that some of these add-ons have limited evidence behind them — and in some cases, they may carry additional risks. You can check which ones are supported by research using the HFEA’s traffic light rating system. [2,3,4,5,6]

Different laws, different options

Legal frameworks around fertility treatment vary hugely between countries. Some clinics operate under laws that allow anonymous donation, commercial surrogacy, or specific treatments that are restricted in the UK. This can offer greater flexibility, especially for those using donor eggs, sperm or embryos, or exploring surrogacy.

Care that reflects your values

Maybe it’s the approach to patient care, maybe it’s the language spoken, maybe it’s the sense of privacy — for some, going abroad simply feels better. If you have cultural, personal or ethical preferences, another country’s healthcare system may offer a better fit.

Cost transparency and support

When it comes to IVF abroad, cost isn’t just about the number — it’s about how clearly that number is communicated. Many international clinics offer package deals that appear fixed-price, but what’s actually included can vary hugely. Some packages cover essentials like scans and medication; others wrap in extras like airport transfers or accommodation, which may sound reassuring but don’t always reflect medical value.

At Seen Fertility, we believe transparency is the first step towards fairer, more accessible fertility care — wherever you have treatment. What matters most isn’t just how much a cycle costs, but how upfront clinics are about those costs. Ask for a clear, itemised breakdown and don’t be afraid to question what’s necessary and what’s optional. Because feeling financially informed shouldn’t be a privilege — it should be the baseline.

Treatment Essentials: IVF

Learn more about IVF as a treatment — from the process and costs to timelines, medications, and risks — in our in-depth guide.

Read more

Is IVF more successful abroad?

Some overseas clinics promote impressively high success rates — and for some people, that’s a big part of the appeal. But while success data can be useful, it’s not always easy to compare like-for-like.

Not all clinics report their results in the same way. Some may only show success rates for younger patients (e.g. under 35), or focus on pregnancy rates rather than live births. Others might include donor cycles in their data without clearly separating them from own-egg cycles. [7]

The types of patients a clinic treats also affect outcomes. For example, clinics with high success rates may be working mostly with younger individuals or those with less complex fertility issues. That’s why it’s important to ask for age-specific, treatment-specific success rates — ideally verified by a national body like SEF (Sociedad Española de Fertilidad) in Spain, ESHRE (European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology) for Europe, or the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in the US.

How do success rates abroad compare to the UK?

In general, IVF success rates across reputable European clinics are broadly similar to UK clinics, according to research by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE): [8,9]

Country

Live IVF birth rate < 35 years old

Live IVF birth rate 35–39 years old

Live IVF birth rate >40 years old

UK

33%

21%

7%

Spain

25.8%

23.2%

11.7%

Portugal

26.6%

21.2%

14.3%

Czech Republic

29.7%

21.6%

8.9%

Greece

30.4%

22.8%

9.7%

Ukraine

25.4%

22.7%

14.1%

Poland

30.5%

25.9%

12.9%

Russia

30.3%

24.1%

12%

Latvia

29.4%

33.6%

20.7%

Denmark

30.4%

20.2%

12.3%

Germany

25%

22.3%

8.4%

(Germany tends to report slightly lower rates due to stricter rules around embryo transfer and add-ons.) [10]

Had IVF abroad or received a quote? We’re building a clearer picture of fertility costs — and since there’s no comprehensive data out there, your (anonymised) insight could make a real difference. Send us a quick message with your IVF cost abroad to help us bring more transparency to IVF.

Cost comparison: IVF in the UK vs. IVF abroad

Category

UK (average)

Spain

Greece

Portugal

Czech Republic

USA

IVF cycle (base cost)

£5,310

£3,597–£5,196

£3,000–£4,500

£4,000–£5,500

£3,000–£4,000

£10,000–£18,000

Medication

£1,600

Included or extra

Included or extra

Included or extra

Included or extra

£2,000–£4,000

Donor anonymity

No

Yes

Yes (partial)

Yes (until 18)

Yes

No (open ID)

IVF Cost in the UK

Curious what IVF really costs? We’ve broken it down — so you know what to expect, what’s included, and how to plan ahead with confidence.

Get the facts

Understanding regulations and safety with IVF abroad

When planning IVF abroad, one of the most important — and often less visible — factors is how fertility treatment is regulated in different countries. Unlike the UK, not every destination has a central body that oversees safety standards or clinic licensing. That’s why it’s worth doing a little extra digging into how care is monitored, so you can choose a clinic that prioritises your safety and wellbeing.

Legal considerations of IVF abroad

When choosing to have IVF outside the UK, it’s important to understand how local laws may shape your experience — and what that means once you’re back home. Legal frameworks vary widely from country to country, and those differences can affect everything from who’s eligible for treatment to who’s recognised as a legal parent.

Who can access treatment?

Not every country offers the same access to IVF. While some welcome solo parents, LGBTQ+ couples, and people of all ages, others may restrict treatment to heterosexual, married couples or have age cut-offs for using your own eggs. Always check eligibility criteria in advance — and don’t be afraid to ask a clinic directly if you’re unsure.

Donor rules and anonymity

In the UK, donors must be identifiable once a child turns 18. But that’s not the case everywhere. Many countries still allow anonymous donation — and while that might feel right for some, it may not align with UK law or your long-term preferences. Understanding the donor rules in your chosen country is key, especially if you plan to return to the UK with a donor-conceived child.

Parental rights and documentation

If your treatment involves donor conception, embryo donation or surrogacy, make sure you understand who is legally considered the parent in both the country of treatment and the UK. You may need legal advice to ensure your parental status is recognised when you return, especially if your partner isn’t biologically related to the baby or if a surrogate was involved.

Bringing treatment home

IVF doesn’t stop when the embryo is transferred. You may be planning further cycles, need pregnancy care, or require support if treatment doesn’t work. Understanding how your UK GP or clinic can (or can’t) support you after IVF abroad is crucial — and in some cases, you may need to translate medical notes, arrange additional scans, or seek legal advice to navigate the post-treatment phase.

Risks of IVF abroad

For many people, going abroad for IVF opens up access to more affordable, timely, or inclusive care — and for some, that can be life-changing. But as with any medical treatment, especially one outside your home country, there are risks worth understanding so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

  • Language and communication barriers: While many clinics offer English-speaking services, not all staff may be fluent — especially when it comes to nurses, admin teams, or written materials like consent forms and medication instructions. This can make it harder to ask questions, clarify procedures, or understand aftercare guidance in full.

  • Limited continuity of care after treatment: Once you return home, your UK GP or early pregnancy care provider may not have access to your overseas medical records. If something goes wrong — or if you need support after a negative result — you may be left coordinating everything yourself, without the joined-up care you might expect from a UK-based clinic.

  • Legal systems don’t always align: Fertility law varies from country to country. For example, some countries allow anonymous donors, while the UK requires all donors to be identifiable to any child born. This mismatch can create legal grey areas around parental rights, donor-linked information, and even embryo use or storage rules.

  • Not all clinics follow the same standards: The UK’s HFEA sets strict rules for safety, ethics, and success rate reporting. Overseas, this level of oversight isn’t always matched. Some countries have strong national regulators; others don’t. It means clinic quality can vary — and you may be offered treatments or add-ons that wouldn’t be recommended or permitted in the UK.

  • The emotional toll can be higher: Fertility treatment is already emotionally demanding — and adding travel, unfamiliar environments, and the pressure of time-limited appointments can amplify stress. If you’re far from your usual support system and the outcome isn’t what you’d hoped for, it can feel even harder to cope. [11]

  • If something doesn’t go to plan, it’s harder to raise concerns: UK regulators like the HFEA have no authority over overseas clinics, so they can’t intervene if you have a complaint. Before starting treatment, check whether the clinic has a clear complaints process, what legal protections are in place for international patients, and whether your agreement would be enforceable under local or UK law. Knowing your rights ahead of time can help you feel more secure — even if you never need to use them. [7]

Find the right IVF clinic for you

Choosing a fertility clinic is a big decision — whether it’s abroad or closer to home. Our tool walks you through what to look for, what to ask, and how to feel confident in your shortlist.

Find my Match

Choosing the right IVF clinic abroad

Not all clinics are created equal — and when you’re planning treatment in another country, doing your homework matters. The right clinic isn’t just about success rates or cost. It’s about trust, transparency, and feeling confident in your care, wherever you are in the world.

Here are some questions to help guide your search:

Are they properly licensed and accredited?

Look for clinics that are registered with the relevant national health authorities. In Europe, that might include ESHRE (European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology) or ISO certification. If a clinic is vague about accreditation, take that as a red flag.

Do they share clear and current success rates?

You want a clinic that publishes data you can understand — ideally broken down by age group and treatment type. Ask whether those figures are for pregnancies or live births, and whether they include donor cycles or frozen embryo transfers. Transparency counts more than impressive numbers.

What’s included in the cost?

Some clinics offer low base prices but charge extra for essentials like medication, embryo freezing, or ICSI. Others provide bundled packages. Be clear on what’s covered and ask for a full breakdown to avoid surprises.

Will language be a barrier?

Many international clinics have English-speaking coordinators — but not all staff may be fluent. Ask whether you’ll have a dedicated English-speaking contact, and how communication is handled during and after treatment.

How do they handle donor matching and screening?

If you’re using donor sperm or eggs, find out how donors are selected and screened. Can you choose based on physical traits, medical history, or other characteristics? Is the donor anonymous or identifiable — and what are the implications back home?

What happens after your treatment ends?

Good care doesn’t stop when you leave the clinic. Will you receive a full report for your UK GP or fertility team? Do they offer remote follow-ups or support if you get pregnant? Think about how this experience connects to your next steps.

Which country is best for IVF in the world?

There’s no one-size-fits-all. What’s “best” depends on your needs: budget, legal concerns, age, medical history, and support system. Spain and Greece are frequently top choices for UK-based patients due to cost, quality, and proximity.

How to prepare for IVF abroad

Planning IVF abroad isn’t just about picking the right clinic — it’s about preparing for the emotional, physical and logistical side of things too. From travel documents to daily injections, here’s how to get ready so you can focus on what matters most: your treatment.

Sort the paperwork early

Check what your clinic needs in advance — this might include blood test results, previous scan reports, or a letter from your UK doctor. If you’re going through donor treatment or embryo transfer, you may also need to complete consent forms ahead of time. Make sure your passport is valid, and if you’re travelling with medication, have a copy of your prescription (ideally translated into the destination language).

Plan your time abroad carefully

Ask your clinic how long you’ll need to stay — this can vary based on your protocol. Some people travel twice: once for monitoring and egg collection, and again for embryo transfer. Others stay for 2–6 weeks to complete the whole cycle. It can be worth allowing time for buffer days in case your body responds faster or slower than expected.

Check travel insurance and medical cover

Not all standard travel insurance policies cover fertility treatment — especially if you’re carrying medication or having minor procedures. Look for a policy that includes medical complications or cancellations related to health. If unsure, call the insurer directly and explain your trip.

Transporting embryos between the UK and EU

If you’re considering freezing embryos abroad or transferring embryos created in the UK to another clinic, it is possible — but you’ll need to plan ahead. Transporting embryos across borders involves:

  • Coordination between clinics

  • Specialised medical couriers (with temperature-controlled transport)

  • Paperwork including clinic licences, consent forms, and sometimes embassy authorisation

Costs vary but typically start around £800–£1,500, and not all clinics are equipped to manage logistics at both ends. If you think embryo transfer might be part of your plan — now or later — speak to both clinics early on.

What to pack for IVF abroad?

Whether you’re travelling light or building in a few days to rest and recover, here’s what many people pack for IVF abroad:

  • Medication and injections: Carry these in your hand luggage with your prescription and a doctor’s note for airport security.

  • Cooling bag: For medication that needs refrigeration during travel.

  • Comfortable clothes: Think loose layers, especially for post-egg collection or if you’re bloated from stimulation meds.

  • Supplements: Bring enough for your whole stay — you may not find the same brands abroad.

  • Fertility tracker or journal: To log symptoms, medications, and questions for your clinic.

  • Translator app or phrase list: Helpful if you’re travelling to a country where English isn’t widely spoken.

  • Entertainment and snacks: You may have downtime between scans or during recovery.

  • Travel documents and clinic paperwork: Keep everything in one folder, including ID, test results, and travel insurance.

What happens after IVF abroad?

Aftercare is one of the most overlooked parts of the process. Once you return to the UK, you may need:

  • Ongoing medication (such as progesterone support)

  • Early pregnancy scans

  • Emotional support or counselling

  • A GP or NHS referral if treatment wasn’t successful

While some clinics abroad provide remote follow-up, you may need to arrange post-treatment support through your GP or a private provider. It’s worth asking your chosen clinic whether they offer digital reports you can share with your UK medical team — and whether they liaise with UK clinics as part of their service.

IVF abroad is a big decision — but you don’t have to make it alone

Wherever you choose to have treatment, one thing stays the same: the importance of finding a clinic that makes you feel safe, supported, and informed.

IVF abroad can offer more choice, faster timelines, or better value — but it also means doing a little extra homework. Understanding how clinics are regulated, what success rates really mean, and what aftercare looks like back home can make a huge difference to your experience.

That’s where Seen Fertility comes in. Our Clinic Match tool helps you compare UK and international clinics based on what matters most to you — whether that’s donor options, costs, success rates, or inclusive care. It’s designed to take the stress out of shortlisting, so you can move forward feeling confident and clear.

Wherever your fertility path takes you, we’re here to help you navigate it.

Sources

  1. Seen. How Much Does IVF Cost in the UK? Updated 23 September 2024.

  2. Horsey, K. and Jackson, E., 2023. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990 and non‐traditional families.

  3. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Donating your embryos.

  4. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Using donated eggs, sperm or embryos in treatment.

  5. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Treatment add-ons with limited evidence.

  6. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Immunological tests and treatments for fertility.

  7. Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Fertility treatment abroad.

  8. Wyns, C., De Geyter, C., Calhaz-Jorge, C., Kupka, M.S., Motrenko, T., Smeenk, J., Bergh, C., Tandler-Schneider, A., Rugescu, I.A. and Goossens, V., 2022. ART in Europe, 2018: results generated from European registries by ESHRE. Human reproduction open, 2022(3), p.hoac022.

  9. Journal of Reproductive Medicine and Endocrinology. Volume 21 (2024), Number 5, ISSN 1810-2107. S. Bartnitzky, V. Blumenauer, U. Czeromin, D. Fehr, C. Grewe, J.-S. Krüssel, M. S. Kupka, A. Tandler-Schneider, S. Tauchert.

  10. Kliebisch TK, Bielfeld AP, Krüssel JS, Baston-Büst DM. The German Middleway as Precursor for Single Embryo Transfer. A Retrospective Data-analysis of the Düsseldorf University Hospital’s Interdisciplinary Fertility Centre – UniKiD. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd. 2016 Jun;76(6):690-698. doi: 10.1055/s-0042-105747. PMID: 27365539; PMCID: PMC4922893.

  11. Competition & Markets Authority. A guide to your consumer rights. Published 10 June 2021.