IVF in Spain: Everything You Need to Know
IVF in Spain is a well-established option for people considering fertility treatment abroad. The country is known for its clear legal framework, extensive donor egg programme, and experienced clinics that attract many international patients each year. However, with many UK clinics now offering little or no wait for donor eggs, it’s worth weighing up whether treatment overseas is the right fit for you.
Author
Tassia O’Callaghan
Reviewed by
Kayleigh Hartigan
21 min read
Treatment spotlight:
- IVF in Spain is one of several options available to people in the UK who may face NHS eligibility criteria or high private treatment costs.
- Spanish fertility law is among the most inclusive in Europe, allowing access for single women, same-sex couples, and people in their late 40s.
- Spain has a well-established donor egg and sperm programme, which can mean shorter waiting times for some patients. [1]
- A full IVF cycle typically involves 10–14 days in Spain for scans, egg collection, and embryo transfer, though some clinics offer hybrid care where initial tests are done in the UK.
- According to the Spanish Fertility Society (SEF), average success rates per embryo transfer are around 34–35% for women under 40, 24% for women over 40, and 57% when donor eggs are used. [2]
- The average cost of one IVF cycle in Spain ranges from €4,150–€5,995 (£3,600–£5,200), but additional expenses such as medication, travel, and accommodation should also be factored in.
Who is IVF in Spain for?
IVF in Spain is often considered by people in the UK who face barriers to accessing treatment at home. NHS funding can be limited, with strict age and eligibility criteria, and private treatment in the UK is expensive.
Spain is one of the few European countries with clear legislation that allows access for single women, same-sex couples, and patients up to the age of 50. It’s also a common choice for those who need donor eggs or sperm, since Spain has one of the largest and most established donor programmes in Europe. [1]
For some, the decision is based on cost and availability, while for others it’s about being able to start treatment sooner or having a wider set of options than are possible in the UK.
However, it’s important to look at the full picture before deciding. While treatment abroad can appear cheaper, advertised prices don’t always include medication, consultations, or follow-up tests — and travel, accommodation, and time off work can quickly add up. Always ask for a full cost breakdown so you can compare like-for-like with UK clinics. [3]
Some people also travel to Spain to avoid long donor waiting lists, but this isn’t always necessary. Many UK clinics now have little or no wait for donor eggs, thanks to improved donor recruitment and clear HFEA oversight. It’s worth checking current availability at home before assuming you’ll need to go abroad. [3]
It’s also essential to weigh up the medical and emotional considerations. A UK study found that people travelling abroad for IVF were often older and more likely to use donor embryos, which naturally shapes their treatment pathways and outcomes. Rates of multiple pregnancies were higher in this group, largely reflecting differences in embryo transfer practices across countries. When clinics follow single-embryo transfer guidance and tailor plans carefully, outcomes can look very different. [4]
Ultimately, IVF in Spain can be a good option for some — particularly for those seeking inclusive laws or access to donor eggs — but it isn’t the right path for everyone. The best next step is to speak with us about recommended clinics or explore options through our Clinic Match Tool. With the right guidance, you can compare trusted UK and overseas providers and make a decision that truly fits your needs.
"At Institut Marquès, we are proud to welcome many patients from the UK and provide them with personalised care in their own language. For instance, last year, we supported 116 patients from the UK. So far in 2025, 33 patients have undergone IVF, 36 have opted for anonymous egg donation, and 38 chose to do embryo donation."
IVF Step-by-Step: What to Expect at Each Stage
Learn more about IVF: the steps involved, how much it costs, understand success rates and risks, all in one convenient, in-depth guide.
Before you start treatment, remember:
- Check your legal eligibility first: Spain has progressive laws, but there are still rules around age, BMI, and how many embryos can be transferred.
- Budget for travel and accommodation: Flights, hotels, and time off work add to treatment costs.
- Plan your treatment path with the clinic: Some clinics offer hybrid care (monitoring at home with treatment abroad), while others prefer everything on site.
- Know what’s included: Some packages include medication, consultation, and storage; others don’t.
- Prepare for pre-treatment tests in the UK: Many clinics request bloodwork and fertility assessments before your first visit to Spain for IVF.
- Ask about communication: Time zones and international numbers can make communication tricky, so ask whether your clinic uses WhatsApp, email, or a patient portal.
- A live birth isn’t guaranteed. IVF in Spain has some of the highest success rates in Europe, but outcomes still depend on age, diagnosis, and whether donor eggs are used. According to the Sociedad Española de Fertilidad (the Spanish authority on fertility treatments), for women under 40, the pregnancy rate per transfer in Spain is around 34–35%. [2]
- It takes time. IVF requires flexibility in your schedule, especially when travelling abroad. You may need to stay in Spain for 10–14 days for monitoring, egg collection, and transfer, and your timeline can shift depending on how your body responds.
- Plans may change. Your clinic can adjust medication doses or timing based on scan and blood test results. It’s common for treatment plans to be adapted right up until embryo transfer.
- Donor anonymity: In Spain, egg and sperm donation is completely anonymous. Donors and recipients never exchange identifying information, unlike in the UK, where donor identities can be accessed once a child turns 18.
- Regulations: Spain’s fertility laws are more flexible than the UK’s — there’s no legal age limit, treatment is open to single women and same-sex couples, and embryos can be stored for up to 55 years.
- It’s a medical procedure. IVF involves daily hormone injections, possible side effects, and a short surgical procedure for egg retrieval. If you’re travelling, factor in time for rest and recovery before flying home.
IVF in Spain: Step-by-step
If you’re travelling from the UK — or another home country such as Germany — for IVF in Spain, it helps to understand how treatment can be structured. Many clinics offer a fully Spain-based pathway, while others support a hybrid model where part of the process happens at home. Below, you’ll find both options broken down so you can see what fits best for you.
Part-treatment in your home country, with travel to Spain for egg collection or transfer
Step 1: Pretreatment
Time: 2–6 weeks
Location: Home and clinic (remote + optional visit)
Most Spanish clinics offer initial consultations, usually online. This first call covers your medical history, any recent test results, and what your cycle could look like. If you haven’t had tests yet, the clinic will guide you through what’s needed. They may suggest completing tests at a partner clinic in your home country, or you can choose to do everything in Spain during a short visit.
Some clinics also welcome patients who want to visit in person before starting treatment.
Your treatment plan is then tailored to your results. Spanish clinics can issue medication prescriptions for UK or EU pharmacies, but availability can vary — some pharmacies may not stock certain fertility medications. Many people still complete the medication stage at home, but others prefer to start in Spain where monitoring and medication are often included in the package cost.
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation and monitoring (hybrid)
Time: 10–14 days
Location: Mostly home country, with required visits in Spain
You’ll begin daily stimulation medication at home. Monitoring is usually shared between your local partner clinic (for the first scans and bloodwork) and your Spanish clinic, so you stay closely supported from both sides. Toward the end of stimulation, most people travel to Spain for final scans ahead of egg collection. If your cycle also involves using sperm — from a partner or donor — your clinic will coordinate when that needs to be provided or transported to Spain for fertilisation.
You can expect 1–2 appointments at your local clinic during early monitoring, followed by at least 2–3 in-person scans once you arrive in Spain.
Step 3: Egg collection (in Spain)
Time: 1 day (plus recovery)
Location: Clinic in Spain
Eggs are collected under light sedation. After a short recovery, most people feel comfortable travelling. Fertilisation (using partner or donor sperm) happens that same day.
Step 4: Fertilisation and embryo culture
Time: 3–6 days
Location: Clinic laboratory
Embryologists monitor fertilisation and development, with updates typically shared daily. Embryos may be prepared for fresh transfer or frozen for a later cycle.
Step 5: Embryo transfer (in Spain)
Time: 1 day
Location: Clinic in Spain
A thin catheter is used to place the embryo into the uterus. Most Spanish clinics recommend transferring a single embryo, even though the law allows up to three, to reduce the likelihood of a multiple pregnancy. The procedure is usually quick and pain-free.
Step 6: Two-week wait
Location: Home country or Spain
You can travel home after transfer. Most patients return for the wait and choose either:
- An hCG blood test at their local clinic, or
- An at-home urine pregnancy test.
Clinics will advise what they prefer, but staying in Spain is not usually required.
Full treatment in Spain
Step 1: Pretreatment and first visit
Time: 2–6 weeks
Location: Home + Spain
You’ll start with a virtual consultation, followed by the option to complete all tests — bloodwork, scans, and the in-person consultation — during a dedicated visit. Many patients prefer this route for continuity, especially if they want all care delivered under one roof.
Your clinic will then confirm your tailored treatment plan, talk you through medication, and prepare you for stimulation.
Step 2: Ovarian stimulation and monitoring (Spain)
Time: 10–14 days
Location: Clinic in Spain
Daily injections stimulate your ovaries. All monitoring happens at your Spanish clinic, usually every 2–3 days. Because everything is done onsite, many people find this stage more streamlined.
Step 3: Egg collection
Time: 1 day
Location: Clinic in Spain
Eggs are collected under light sedation, followed by same-day fertilisation using partner or donor sperm.
Step 4: Fertilisation and embryo culture
Time: 3–6 days
Location: Clinic laboratory
Your embryos are grown and monitored in the clinic’s lab. You’ll receive updates throughout.
Step 5: Embryo transfer
Time: 1 day
Location: Clinic in Spain
A quick, usually pain-free procedure using a fine catheter. Most clinics recommend transferring a single embryo.
Step 6: Two-week wait
Location: Home or Spain
Once the transfer is complete, you can either stay in Spain or return home. Pregnancy testing can be done via hCG blood draw in your home country or using an at-home test, depending on what your clinic advises.
What happens next?
After embryo transfer, you’ll take progesterone support and wait around two weeks before doing a pregnancy test. If successful, your clinic will guide you on when to transition to local antenatal care.
If not, clinics usually schedule a review consultation. They may recommend another cycle, donor options, or further tests such as sperm DNA fragmentation or immunology screening. Many people need more than one cycle to conceive.
If your cycle is unsuccessful, consider:
- A review with your clinic to analyse embryo development and protocol response
- Further tests (e.g. hysteroscopy, sperm DNA fragmentation, immune testing)
- Switching to donor eggs or sperm if poor quality is an issue
- Trying another clinic – Seen Fertility reviews and ratings can help guide your choice
How long does IVF in Spain take?
A full IVF cycle in Spain typically takes 6–9 weeks in total. Pretreatment — including consultations, bloodwork, scans and planning — usually happens over the first 2–6 weeks either at home or during an early visit to the clinic.
Active treatment (stimulation, egg collection and embryo transfer) usually requires 12–16 days in Spain, depending on the clinic’s model (retrieval-only, hybrid, or fully onsite).
How to Choose the Best Fertility Clinic
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Understanding IVF success rates in Spain
Success rates in Spain are closely monitored through the Sociedad Española de Fertilidad (SEF) Registry, which collects annual data from clinics across the country. Outcomes vary depending on your age, the use of your own or donor eggs, and the techniques used in the laboratory.
As of 2020 (the latest figures from the SEF) or women under 40, the pregnancy rate per embryo transfer is around 34–35%. For women over 40, this drops to about 24%, which is similar to what’s seen in other parts of Europe. [2]
When donor eggs are used, success rates are much higher. According to the 2020 SEF registry, the pregnancy rate per transfer is around 57%, regardless of the recipient’s age. This makes donor egg IVF a common pathway, particularly for patients in their 40s.
For same-sex female couples, Spain also offers the ROPA method (Reception of Oocytes from Partner). One partner undergoes stimulation and egg retrieval, while the other receives the embryo transfer, allowing both to share in the process.
Some patients also choose to add preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), often recommended for reasons such as maternal age. According to the SEF registry, maternal age was the most frequent reason for using PGT, accounting for nearly 60% of cases.
Why do people think IVF is more successful in Spain than in the UK?
At first glance, IVF in Spain appears to have slightly higher success rates than the UK, particularly when donor eggs are included. According to the Spanish Fertility Society (SEF), the overall pregnancy rate per embryo transfer in 2020 was around 37.5%, compared with 31% reported by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) in the UK that same year. However, both countries collect and present data differently, which makes direct comparison difficult.
For IVF using a patient’s own eggs, the figures are broadly similar. In Spain, women under 40 have an average pregnancy rate of 34–35% per transfer, compared with 35% in the UK in 2020 and 40% in 2023–2024. For women over 40, Spain reported 24%, while the UK saw 19% in 2020 and 25% more recently. It’s also worth noting that “under 40” includes a wide age range — and we don’t know whether most Spanish patients in this group are closer to 30, or most UK patients are nearer to 40, which could influence outcomes.
The main difference lies in donor egg IVF. In Spain, where this treatment is more common, the SEF reports a 57% pregnancy rate per transfer, compared with 41% in the UK in 2020 and 44% in 2023–2024. Spain’s extensive donor programme and use of younger donors with proven fertility likely explain this higher success rate.
Finally, it’s important to acknowledge that national registries may use different methodologies when defining or recording “pregnancy rate per transfer.” For example, the HFEA specifies who is included in its data pool, while SEF’s registry does not make this breakdown public. This means success rates across countries should be seen as broadly indicative rather than directly comparable. [2,6]
Treatment type/patient type
Pregnancy rate per embryo transfer (Spain — 2020)
Pregnancy rate per embryo transfer (UK — 2020)
Pregnancy rate per embryo transfer (UK — 2023-2024)
Women under 40
(own eggs)
34–35%
35%
40%
Women aged 40 or over
(own eggs)
24%
19%
25%
Conception with donated eggs
57%
41%
44%
What are the risks of IVF in Spain?
Like any medical treatment, IVF in Spain carries risks to be aware of — both physical and emotional. Understanding them can help you prepare and plan for the right support.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): This is a reaction to hormone medication where the ovaries become overactive. Most cases are mild and treated at home, but in rare situations OHSS can require hospital care.
- Surgical risks: Egg retrieval is carried out under sedation and, as with any procedure, carries a small risk of infection or complication. Embryo transfer is less invasive, but still involves passing a catheter into the uterus.
- Multiple pregnancy: Transferring more than one embryo increases the risk of twins or higher-order pregnancies. While this can sometimes be recommended, it also raises the chance of pregnancy complications.
- Travel complications: IVF abroad adds another layer of uncertainty. Flight dates and accommodation may need to change at short notice if your cycle develops differently than expected.
- Language barriers: While most leading clinics in Spain are experienced with international patients and provide English-speaking coordinators or translators, there may still be moments where medical detail feels harder to follow. Asking for written follow-ups or translation support can help.
- Emotional and financial strain: Travelling for treatment can feel isolating and adds extra cost. Planning ahead and building in support can help manage the pressure.
Using donor eggs in Spain
Spain is one of the most established destinations in Europe for donor egg IVF, with a large pool of donors. Many people from the UK choose Spain because of shorter waiting times, high success rates, and the ability to access treatment regardless of relationship status or sexual orientation. [1]
Donor anonymity in Spain
In Spain, egg and sperm donation is completely anonymous by law. Donors and recipients cannot exchange identifying information, and any child born from the donation will not be able to access details about their donor later in life. Only limited, non-identifying medical information (such as blood type or physical traits) is shared. [7]
This differs from the UK, where anonymity was lifted in 2005. Under HFEA regulations, donor-conceived children can access non-identifying information about their donor at age 16, and identifying information (such as name and last known address) at 18. For some families, this openness is reassuring. For others, the privacy and legal clarity offered by the Spanish system feels more comfortable. [8]
If you’re unsure which approach feels right for you, the Donor Conception Network (DCN) offers resources, peer support, and legal guidance to help families explore the social and emotional implications of anonymous and known donation.
Legal clarity and parenthood
Under Spanish law, the intended parent or parents are recognised as the legal parents of the child from birth. Donors have no legal rights or responsibilities, which provides certainty for families from the outset. [9]
Things to consider
Choosing to use donor eggs is both a medical and emotional decision. It’s worth reflecting on how you feel about:
- The level of information you’d like your child to have about their donor in the future
- How different countries’ laws may affect that access
- Whether you want to talk to a fertility counsellor before travelling
While there’s no single “right” path, understanding the differences between Spain’s anonymous donor model and the UK’s open system can help you make a choice that feels right for your family — now and in the years ahead.
How much does IVF cost in Spain?
IVF in Spain is usually less expensive than in the UK, though costs vary between clinics and depend on whether you’re using your own eggs or donor eggs. Based on our recent clinic data, the average price for one cycle of IVF in Spain is around €4,983 (£4,318), ranging between €4,150–€5,995 (£3,597–£5,196). Some clinics may charge closer to €6,000 (£5,230), particularly if additional techniques or medications are required.
It’s important to remember that these figures sometimes don’t include medication, which can add another €1,000–€1,400 (£1,300–£1,750), or embryo/egg storage, which can add another €350 on average. Travel, accommodation, and time off work also add to the overall cost.
When compared to the UK, where the average cycle costs around £7,545, many people find that treatment in Spain feels more affordable — especially when combined with the country’s shorter waiting times and wider access to donor options.
Find the right clinic for you
Choosing a clinic is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. We’ll find the best options for you and arrange your pre-treatment tests, empowering you from this point onwards.
Logistics for IVF in Spain
Planning the practical side of your treatment is just as important as understanding the medical steps. Here are the key logistics to consider when travelling from the UK.
Travel
Most IVF clinics in Spain are in Madrid, Barcelona, Alicante, and Valencia — all of which have frequent international flights from the UK. On average, a round trip costs around £255 per person, though prices vary by season.
Flying mid-week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays) and outside the peak summer months usually lowers costs, with the most affordable fares between November and February. It’s best to book 1–3 months in advance, or as soon as you know your treatment schedule, as clinic dates can be set at short notice.
Stay length
For most people, you’ll need to be in Spain for 10–14 days to cover monitoring, egg collection, and embryo transfer. Some clinics shorten this through hybrid pathways (scans done at home, treatment abroad), though you should still plan for a stay of at least one week.
Consider whether you’d prefer a hotel for convenience or self-catering accommodation for more flexibility. Staying close to your clinic, or somewhere with reliable public transport, can make day-to-day appointments easier. Spain’s public transport system is efficient, and Uber and local taxis are widely available.
The clinics on Seen Fertility all have extensive experience supporting international patients and can help with the practical details — from arranging airport transfers to recommending nearby hotels. Their teams are used to coordinating travel plans and will make sure you have everything you need before you arrive.
Is IVF better in Spain?
IVF in Spain brings together high-quality medical care, inclusive laws, and shorter waiting times, which is why so many people from the UK choose to travel there. Success rates are strong — especially for donor egg IVF — but whether Spain is the “best” option depends on your individual circumstances, budget, and treatment needs.
With the right clinic and a clear understanding of what’s involved, IVF in Spain can be a positive and empowering choice. If you’re exploring your options, our Clinic Match Tool can help you compare clinics based on what matters most to you. And if you’d prefer to talk it through, you can always reach us on WhatsApp — no-one knows fertility clinics like us.
IVF in Spain FAQs
What is the BMI limit for IVF in Spain?
The BMI limit for IVF in Spain isn’t set by law, but most clinics apply their own cut-offs, usually between 30 and 35. This is mainly for medical safety, as higher BMI levels can affect both anaesthesia during egg retrieval and pregnancy outcomes. Some clinics may be more flexible depending on your overall health, so it’s best to check directly with the clinic you’re considering.
Can you choose gender with IVF in Spain?
No, you can’t choose the gender of your baby with IVF in Spain unless there’s a medical reason, such as preventing a serious inherited condition. Spanish law does not allow gender selection for personal preference. If you’re considering IVF in Spain, clinics will focus on embryo quality and your chances of pregnancy, rather than choosing sex. [10]
What is the age limit for IVF in Spain?
There’s no legal age limit for IVF in Spain, but most clinics set their own cut-offs, usually between 48 and 50 for women. This is guided by medical safety and the chances of a healthy pregnancy rather than the law itself. For male partners, there’s typically no upper age limit, though clinics may still take overall health into account.
Can I do part-treatment in the UK and the rest in Spain?
Yes — and many people do. You can begin treatment in the UK (or your home country) and then travel to Spain for the key steps, like egg collection and embryo transfer. Clinics in Spain are very used to working this way. They often partner with UK providers for scans and bloodwork, and most will issue prescriptions that UK pharmacies can fill, although availability can vary.
This hybrid approach gives you flexibility: you stay close to home for pretreatment and early monitoring, then move to Spain when it matters most. It’s also entirely your choice whether to stay in Spain until your pregnancy test or return home and do your hCG blood draw locally. Both options are common, and clinics will support you either way.
Sources
- The Conversation. Spain is the egg donation capital of Europe – here’s what it’s like to be a donor. August 17, 2023.
- Sociedad Espanola de Fertilidad. Pacientes SEF.
- Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Fertility treatment abroad.
- Jaspal, R., Prior, T., Denton, J., Salim, R., Banerjee, J. and Lees, C., 2019. The impact of cross-border IVF on maternal and neonatal outcomes in multiple pregnancies: Experience from a UK fetal medicine service. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 238, pp.63-67.
- Cabello, Y., Gómez-Palomares, J.L., Castilla, J.A., Hernández, J., Marqueta, J., Pareja, A., Luceño, F., Hernández, E. and Coroleu, B., 2010. Impact of the Spanish Fertility Society guidelines on the number of embryos to transfer. Reproductive biomedicine online, 21(5), pp.667-675.
- Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. HFEA Dashboard.
- Riaño-Galán, I., González, C.M. and Riestra, S.G., 2021. Ethical and legal questions of anonymity and confidentiality in gamete donation. Anales de Pediatría (English Edition), 94(5), pp.337-e1.
- Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority. Rules around releasing donor information.
- de España, J.D.E., 2006. Ley 14/2006, de 26 de mayo, sobre Técnicas de Reproducción Humana Asistida. Boletín Oficial de España (BOE), 126.
- Boletin Oficial del Estado. Tras la carta de emplazamiento remitida por la Comisión Europea al Gobierno de España. BOE 126. May 27 2006.