Egg Freezing Abroad: Costs, Risks, and How to Choose the Right Clinic
Egg freezing abroad is becoming an increasingly popular option for those seeking lower costs, broader eligibility, or shorter wait times compared to the UK — but making the right choice takes careful research, clear legal understanding, and realistic financial planning. With differences in regulation, success rates, and patient protections across countries, it’s essential to ask the right questions and compare your options thoroughly before committing.
Author
Tassia O’Callaghan
Reviewed by
Kayleigh Hartigan
17 min read
Updated 18th August 2025
Treatment spotlight:
- Many people look abroad to save money or access treatment as single women, same-sex couples, or women over 40 — but costs and eligibility vary by country.
- Spain, Greece, Czech Republic, Portugal, the USA, and parts of Asia are top choices, each offering different balances of price, regulation, and clinic reputation.
- A UK cycle of egg freezing averages ~£10,000, compared with £2,200–£3,200 in Spain, Greece, or the Czech Republic, where packages commonly bundle in medication, consultation, and storage.
- Oversight differs widely — while UK clinics are tightly regulated by the HFEA, international clinics may follow local or variable standards, so research is essential.
- Laws on donor anonymity, storage limits, and parental rights differ across borders; specialist legal advice is often needed before committing.
- Beyond medical risks, factor in travel, insurance, storage, and the lack of UK regulatory support if things go wrong.
- Success depends on choosing accredited clinics, asking the right questions, and checking real patient reviews — our Clinic Match tool can help you find the best fit for you.
Why consider egg freezing abroad?
For many people exploring egg freezing, one of the first questions is: should I stay in the UK, or could going abroad make more sense for me?
There are several reasons why some choose to look overseas:
Lower costs
Treatment abroad can often seem more affordable. In countries like Spain, Greece, or the Czech Republic, egg freezing packages may cost significantly less than UK averages, even after factoring in travel and accommodation. For example, while UK egg freezing typically costs around £4,414 (totalling £6,497 including pre-treatment investigations, medication, and long-term storage), clinics abroad may have lower base rates, averaging £1,951. But be mindful: some international prices exclude important extras, so it’s vital to compare like-for-like.
Broader eligibility
Some countries are more inclusive, offering fertility treatment to single women, same-sex couples, women over 40, and women with a higher BMI, where UK pathways may be limited. Laws and access vary by country, so it’s essential to understand who can be treated and under what conditions before making any decisions.
Shorter waiting times
In the UK, waiting times for certain services (like using donor eggs) can be long, depending on the clinic. Abroad, you may find shorter or no waitlists, especially if you’re open to anonymous donation (though this carries different long-term considerations for you and any future children).
Perceived higher success rates
Some overseas clinics promote impressively high success rates. But a word of caution: data can be presented in selective ways — for example, only reporting results for younger patients or counting pregnancy rates rather than live birth rates. In the UK, the HFEA (Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority) provides consistent, comparable success rates for all licensed clinics, so it’s worth asking overseas clinics how their data is collected before making comparisons.
Access to newer or experimental techniques
Some clinics abroad may offer cutting-edge methods, experimental add-ons, or newer lab technologies not yet widely available or approved in the UK. A word of caution: many of these add-ons may have limited evidence of effectiveness, and higher potential risk to maternal health. You can read more about which fertility add-ons are backed by data using the HFEA traffic light system.
More flexible legal frameworks
In some countries, the legal rules around egg storage, use, or consent may be more flexible, allowing longer storage periods or different options for embryo use. This can be appealing if you’re planning well into the future — though it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape, as it can affect your rights, your donor’s rights (if applicable), and the future rights of any child.
Cultural or personal preferences
For some, returning to a home country, sharing language and cultural familiarity, or working with clinics that align with personal, religious, or ethical values is an important factor. This can also include choosing a location where counselling, psychological support, or staff communication feels more culturally or linguistically accessible.
Bundled or package deals
Certain international clinics offer bundled packages (for example, egg freezing combined with IVF or embryo freezing) that can make longer-term planning feel more financially predictable. Just remember: bundles can sometimes include unnecessary add-ons, so it’s worth considering all of the details carefully.
Treatment Essentials: Egg Freezing
Learn more about egg freezing: the steps involved, how much it costs, and whether it’s right for you — all in one convenient, in-depth guide.
Which countries offer egg freezing abroad for those in the UK?
If you’re considering egg freezing abroad, you’re not alone — many people in the UK look internationally for more affordable options, broader eligibility, or shorter wait times. But where do most people go, and why?
Here’s an overview of the most common destinations:
Europe (especially Spain, Greece, Czech Republic)
These European countries are popular because they combine competitive pricing with a strong reputation for medical expertise. Many clinics in Spain, Greece, Portugal, and the Czech Republic offer high-quality egg freezing services and are familiar with working with international patients. Some European clinics also offer more flexible eligibility for single women and same-sex couples, though it’s vital to check the legal and regulatory frameworks in each country. [1,2,3,4,5]
North America (especially the USA and Canada)
For those looking for cutting-edge technology and advanced laboratory standards, some turn to North America. The USA, in particular, has many renowned fertility clinics with high success rates, although the cost can be significantly higher than European options. Canadian clinics may offer a balance of strong regulation and more affordable care, but availability can vary by province. [6,7]
Asia (especially Thailand, Malaysia, India)
Some patients look to Asia for cost savings and access to newer or less regulated treatments. Clinics in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and India may offer attractive packages, but it’s essential to research regulatory standards, patient protections, and legal issues carefully, as not all countries have national bodies overseeing fertility treatment. [8,9,10]
Cost comparison: UK vs. abroad
When weighing up the decision to freeze your eggs, cost is often one of the biggest considerations — and many people look abroad hoping to save. But how much cheaper is egg freezing overseas compared to staying in the UK?
Here’s a full egg freezing cost breakdown based on our research:
Treatment
UK (average)
Spain (average)
Greece (average)
Czech Republic (average)
Egg freezing package
£4,414
€2,428 (£2,119)
Often all-inclusive
(excl.travel/
accommodation)
€2,200 (£1,900)
Often all-inclusive
(excl.travel/
accommodation)
€2,103 (£1,814)
Often all-inclusive
(excl.travel/
accommodation)
Initial consultation (Fertility MOT)
£250–£600
Often included, but can be €140 + €295 for blood tests (£120 + £260)
Often included
Often included
Medication
£1,600
(£1,000–£2,500)
Often included, but can be €1,500–€2,000
(£1,290–£1,725)
Often included
Often included, but can be
€800–€1,500
Storage (per year after initial)
£150–£540
€200–500 per year
(£170–£450)
€100–€300
(£85–£260)
Often included, but can be
~€200 (£172)
Travel and accommodation
Local travel, minimal
~£500–£1,000
(flights, hotels)
~£500–£1,000
(flights, hotels)
~£400–£900
(flights, hotels)
Total
~£6,264–£6,614
(excluding additional storage)
~£2,700–£3,200
(excluding additional storage)
~£2,400–£2,900
(excluding additional storage)
~£2,200–£2,800
(excluding additional storage)
If you’re considering egg freezing abroad, it’s also worth including:
- Time off work (if applicable)
- Medical insurance abroad (this can vary depending on your age, health, and where you’re travelling)
- Food and drink while abroad
- Who will be travelling with you (the more people, the more expensive it will be)
Tried egg freezing 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.
Egg Freezing Cost in the UK
Curious what egg freezing really costs? We’ve broken it down — so you know what to expect, what’s (not) included, and how to plan ahead with confidence.
Understanding regulations and safety
When you’re considering egg freezing abroad, one of the most important — and often overlooked — factors is how fertility treatment is regulated in different countries. Not every clinic is held to the same standards, and understanding the landscape can help you make informed, confident decisions that prioritise your safety and wellbeing.
Country
Regulatory body or framework
Czech Republic
Poland
Germany
Denmark
Canada
Turkey
Cyprus (North and South)
Legal considerations of egg freezing abroad
Before booking egg freezing treatment abroad, it’s essential to understand that legal rules vary widely from country to country — and they can have a profound impact on your rights, your future child’s rights, and the entire treatment process. It can be worth contacting a fertility-specialist solicitor or legal advisor to make sure your rights are protected.
While egg freezing might seem like a straightforward medical decision, the legal landscape abroad can introduce complexities you may not have faced in the UK. Here’s what you need to know:
Who can legally access egg freezing abroad?
Not every country offers fertility treatment to the same groups.
- In the UK, single people, heterosexual couples, and same-sex couples can all access egg freezing services under the same legal framework (HFEA).
- In some European countries (like Spain or Greece), laws are similarly inclusive — but others impose age limits or restrict access for single individuals or LGBTQ+ patients.
- In certain non-European countries, access may be limited by marital status, sexual orientation, or nationality. China, for example, only permits heterosexual married couples to access any assisted reproductive technology. Always check eligibility carefully before you commit to treatment. [11]
Parental rights and responsibilities
If you plan to return to use your frozen eggs, especially if you’ll need donor sperm or a surrogate, local laws can shape parental rights in complex ways. For example, in the UK, donors have no legal responsibilities or parental rights if donated through a licensed clinic. But in some countries, donors may hold legal or financial claims, or the law may not clarify parental status after birth. [12]
Anonymity vs. identifiable donors
The UK prohibits anonymous donation: donor-conceived individuals have the right to access identifying details of their donor once they turn 18. However, many countries (like Spain, Greece, and the Czech Republic) still allow anonymous egg or sperm donation, meaning any future child might not be able to trace their genetic origins. This can raise ethical, emotional, and identity considerations for you and your family down the line. [3,4,13,14]
Risks of egg freezing abroad
Egg freezing abroad can offer savings and flexibility — but it comes with medical and logistical risks you need to weigh carefully.
- Medical risks: Side effects from medication, complications during egg collection, or eggs not surviving thawing — although these are all medical risks that can happen regardless of whether your egg freezing takes place in the UK or abroad. Standards vary between countries, so always check the clinic’s safety protocols and success rates.
- Logistical risks: Travel delays, language barriers, and the challenge of arranging follow-up care once home. Unexpected costs can also add up.
- Clinic closure or storage failure: If a clinic abroad closes unexpectedly or has a lab failure (for example, storage tank malfunction), it can result in the loss of your frozen eggs. Unlike in the UK, where clinics are strictly regulated and monitored by the HFEA, overseas safeguards may be weaker or harder to decipher. [15]
- Unclear success rates: Some clinics report pregnancy rates (not live birth rates) or only show data for younger patients, making their success numbers look higher than they truly are — this is the same for the UK as abroad. We recommend asking for age-specific, transparent success data.
- Emotional and mental health strain: Travelling abroad for treatment, especially without a support system, can be emotionally taxing. Not all overseas clinics provide access to counselling, which is a standard offering in the UK. [16]
- If something goes wrong: UK regulators (like the HFEA) can’t help with complaints about overseas clinics. Before committing, ask the clinic whether they have a formal complaints process, what legal protections apply to you and them, and whether your contract with them is enforceable under local or UK law. [15]
Importing and exporting eggs
Importing or exporting eggs to or from the UK involves a formal process designed to protect the safety, legality, and integrity of your frozen material. To move eggs across borders, you must work with an HFEA-licensed UK clinic that offers import/export services, as not every clinic provides this. The eggs will be cryopreserved (frozen) and transported using specialist medical couriers with containers designed to maintain biological safety and temperature controls throughout the journey.
Strict legal conditions apply, too — for example, importing into Great Britain from outside the UK requires the UK clinic to hold an authorised Importing Tissue Establishment (ITE) certificate. In Northern Ireland, the rules differ slightly, especially when importing from EU countries. If your clinic has previously worked with your overseas clinic, the process may go more smoothly, as they’ll already be familiar with the necessary checks. Importantly, you as a patient cannot apply for permissions directly — the clinic handles all approvals, and they may charge for this service. [17]
Once imported, your own eggs can be stored in the UK for up to 55 years, provided you renew your consent every 10 years. Donor eggs are also subject to a maximum 55-year storage period, depending on the donor’s consent. It’s essential to factor in not only the transport costs but also courier fees, clinic handling charges, and any legal paperwork requirements. To ensure your treatment journey stays smooth, keep your medical records up to date across borders and always ask the clinic for a full explanation of costs, timelines, and paperwork before arranging a transfer. [18]
Find the right egg freezing clinic for you
Choosing a fertility clinic is a big decision — and we’ve made it clearer. Our tool walks you through what to look for, what to ask, and how to feel confident in your shortlist.
Choosing the right egg freezing clinic abroad
Choosing the right egg freezing clinic abroad is one of the most important steps you’ll take — and it’s about far more than picking the cheapest package or the most popular destination. While egg freezing abroad can offer more affordable options, true success depends on rigorous research, strong legal safeguards, and realistic cost planning.
Start by looking for reputable, well-accredited clinics. Check if they’re licensed by a recognised national authority and have robust lab protocols in place to ensure safe, high-quality freezing and thawing. Remember, not all reported “success rates” are equal — some clinics report pregnancy rates (rather than live birth rates) or show results only for younger patients, making their numbers look higher than they truly are. Always ask for age-specific success data and clear definitions of what’s being measured.
If you’re considering using donor eggs, ask about donor recruitment, screening, and counselling practices. Find out whether donors are anonymous or identifiable (and what rights they or your future child might have), as anonymity laws differ sharply between countries. Also, ask the clinic about their policies on consent, how long eggs can be stored, and under what conditions you can use them later.
Be cautious around any offered “add-on” treatments or lab techniques — many clinics upsell procedures that sound promising but lack strong scientific backing. You can check the HFEA traffic light system to see which add-ons have real evidence behind them.
Finally, think practically: will language or communication barriers affect your care? Does the clinic provide counselling and emotional support if you need it? Do they prioritise safe practices like single embryo transfers to reduce health risks?
Choosing the right clinic is about matching expertise with trust and care. Explore our verified clinic listings, with cost breakdowns and patient reviews to research your options with confidence and clarity — because when it comes to your fertility, you deserve nothing less.
Questions to ask your potential overseas egg freezing clinic
When you’re considering egg freezing abroad, the right clinic isn’t just the one with the best price or the flashiest website — it’s the one that can confidently answer the right questions and give you reassurance at every stage. Before committing, take the time to ask your potential clinic the following:
- Is the clinic licensed or accredited by a recognised national authority? Not every country has strong fertility regulation, so make sure the clinic operates under formal oversight and adheres to national or international standards.
- What lab protocols are in place to safeguard egg quality? Ask about their freezing (vitrification) and thawing techniques, their lab conditions, and how they maintain safety and precision. A clinic should be transparent about its procedures and success rates.
- How is patient data handled? Make sure your personal and medical data will be securely stored and protected under local data laws — and that you understand who will have access to your records.
- Do they offer professional counselling support? In the UK, fertility clinics must offer counselling, but this isn’t a universal requirement abroad. Emotional support can be a crucial part of the process, especially if you’re navigating treatment far from home.
- What are their policies on embryo transfers? Best practice recommends transferring a single embryo in most cases to reduce the health risks associated with multiple pregnancies. Ask whether the clinic routinely follows this guidance.
- How are costs structured — and what’s included? Make sure you know what’s covered in the quoted price (medications, monitoring, storage, future thaw cycles) and what will be charged separately. Ask for a written, itemised cost plan to avoid surprises.
- If donor eggs are involved, what are the rules around anonymity and future contact? Laws differ widely: some countries allow anonymous donation, while others — like the UK — give donor-conceived people the right to access identifying information when they turn 18.
- What happens if something goes wrong? Understand the clinic’s formal complaints process, whether they carry professional liability insurance, and what legal protections you have under local law.
Egg freezing abroad can be a safe, cost-effective choice — but success comes from choosing carefully, asking the right questions, and protecting yourself with clear, written agreements. For help comparing clinics, reading patient reviews, and finding expert-backed resources, explore our verified clinics and research guides to guide your next step with clarity and confidence.
Sources
1. https://www.treatmentabroad.com/listings/infertility-treatment/
2. https://www.sefertilidad.net/
3. https://eaiya.gov.gr/en/home/
4. https://www.healthinformationportal.eu/health-information-sources/national-register-reproduction-health
5. https://ciencia.ucp.pt/en/publications/a-procriação-medicamente-assistida-no-ordenamento-jurídico-portug
6. https://www.asrm.org/advocacy-and-policy/fact-sheets-and-one-pagers/oversight-of-art/
7. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/biologics-radiopharmaceuticals-genetic-therapies/legislation-guidelines/assisted-human-reproduction.html
8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5753847/
9. https://mmc.gov.my/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Assisted-Reproduction.pdf
10. https://www.indiacode.nic.in/bitstream/123456789/17031/1/A2021-42 .pdf
11. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8109229/
12. https://www.gov.uk/legal-rights-for-egg-and-sperm-donors
13. https://www.hfea.gov.uk/donation/donors/
14. https://analesdepediatria.org/en-ethical-legal-questions-anonymity-confidentiality-articulo-S2341287921000454
15. https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/explore-all-treatments/fertility-treatment-abroad/
16. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fertility-treatment-a-guide-to-your-consumer-rights/a-guide-to-your-consumer-rights
17. https://www.hta.gov.uk/guidance-professionals/uk-transition-guidance/importing/existing-hta-licence-holders
18. https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/explore-all-treatments/importing-and-exporting-sperm-eggs-and-embryos/