Why Willow Roots Chooses Ethics Over Grey Lines in Surrogacy
At Willow Roots Fertility Consulting, we believe that how we build families matters just as much as the families we help create. Our commitment to ethical, transparent, and lawful surrogacy practices is at the heart of everything we do — and it’s why we will never operate in the “grey zone” or allow compensated (paid) surrogacy journeys.
The Law Is Clear: Paid Surrogacy Is Illegal in Canada
Under Canada’s Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA), it is a criminal offence to pay a surrogate for their services or to accept payment for arranging or facilitating paid surrogacy. Only reimbursement for verified expenses directly related to the pregnancy is permitted — and even then, it must be carefully documented.
A recent legal opinion by Addario Law Group LLP reinforced that these laws apply not just to Canadians but also to international hopeful parents who try to pay Canadian surrogates. The opinion concluded that:
Paying or offering to pay a Canadian surrogate is illegal, even if the payment comes from outside Canada.
Agencies, lawyers, or clinics that facilitate or arrange such payments can face criminal liability and professional discipline.
There is no loophole that allows compensation simply because funds are moved through other countries or entities.
In other words, the law protects Canadian surrogates from being drawn into for-profit models, and Canada has jurisdiction to prosecute those who cross this line.
The “Grey Area” Isn’t Harmless — It’s Risky and Harmful
Some organizations promote “creative” workarounds or international arrangements that blur the lines of what’s legal. These practices don’t just put hopeful parents and professionals at risk — they also exploit surrogates and undermine the integrity of Canada’s altruistic system.
Operating in this grey area can mean:
Exposure to criminal charges and financial penalties (up to $500,000 or 10 years in prison).
Invalid contracts that could leave parents unprotected.
Emotional and financial trauma for everyone involved if authorities intervene.
At Willow Roots, we refuse to put our clients or surrogates in that position.
We Choose Integrity — Always
Willow Roots was built on a foundation of fairness, compassion, and transparency. We honour the altruistic spirit of Canadian surrogacy by ensuring:
Every surrogate is supported, respected, and protected — never paid or coerced.
Every parent’s journey aligns with Canadian law, offering peace of mind and security.
Every relationship we facilitate is grounded in honesty and care, not financial incentive.
We don’t believe in shortcuts or loopholes — we believe in doing things right. Because ethical surrogacy isn’t just the legal way; it’s the only way to protect the families and surrogates who trust us.
Our Promise to You
At Willow Roots, you’ll never be asked to cross a legal or ethical boundary. You’ll be guided by a team that believes integrity is non-negotiable. We’ll walk beside you every step of the way — legally, safely, and compassionately — toward your dream of growing your family.
At Willow Roots, ethics aren’t optional — they’re our foundation.