Egg donation is attracting more and more patients who, for medical or legal reasons, are looking to pursue their fertility journey abroad. Faced with the complexity of their own country's legal system and long waiting lists, many wonder which country is best for egg donation. The choice depends on several criteria: the legislation, the cost, the success rates, but above all, the availability of donors. Because in this often long and hopeful journey, every month counts.
The best country for egg donation is Greece.
It combines immediate availability of donors, favorable legislation, high success rates, and affordable prices. Unlike other countries like Spain or elsewhere in Europe where the waiting time can be several months, treatments in Greece can begin immediately after the first consultation. Its clinics are modern, certified, and welcome international patients in a safe and supportive environment. For couples and single women who cannot wait, Greece offers the fastest and most reliable solution.
Egg donation is permitted in some countries but severely limited by a shortage of donors. Waiting lists can reach two years, sometimes even longer. After the age of 40, this delay often renders any treatment ineffective. Going abroad allows access to an IVF program with egg donation quickly, without excessive waiting times and under highly advanced medical conditions.
Many European countries have developed a legal and medical framework favorable to assisted reproduction. The clinics there are specialized, regulated by strict health authorities, and offer follow-up care in several languages. For a French, Belgian, or Swiss patient, treatment abroad is often the only realistic way to realize their dream of parenthood.
It should be noted that egg donation is not permitted in a number of countries, Muslim countries for example, but also some other countries, such as Germany, which limits the supply and automatically increases the number of cases directed towards countries that do offer it.
Of course, Europe is not the only place where egg donation is available, but the legal framework, the professionalism of the clinics, the availability of donors, the pricing (unlike in the United States), the diversity of donors, etc., mean that this service is primarily found in Europe.
The best country depends on several key criteria.
First, the legal framework: some countries allow anonymous donation, others do not. Next, the availability of donors, which directly impacts the waiting time. Then there are the overall cost, success rates, medical reputation, and geographical accessibility.
Here are the factors to compare before making your choice:
Greece is currently the most balanced destination for egg donation. Donation is anonymous and legal there for both single women and heterosexual couples. The age limit for recipients is 54, subject to medical approval.
The major advantage of Greece is the immediate availability of donors. Unlike France or Spain, where the waiting time can be several months, patients can begin their treatment in just a few weeks. This is crucial for women over 40, for whom every month can make a difference.
The waiting time for an egg donor is only a few days, which is ideal.
Success rates range from 55 to 70%, depending on the clinic and the patient's profile. The clinics are modern, ISO certified, and have French-speaking coordinators.
The cost of egg donation in Greece varies between €6,500 and €8,000, offering excellent value for money.
The clinics in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Crete are among the most reputable in Europe.
► Find your egg donor in Greece
Spain has long been the European benchmark for egg donation. Its legal framework is strict, the clinics are reputable, and success rates are high. However, high demand sometimes leads to waiting lists, especially for specific donor profiles.
The cost is higher than in Greece, often ranging from €7,800 to €9,400 depending on the tests and options included. Spanish clinics offer exceptional quality, but the immediate availability of donors is not always guaranteed. It's an ideal destination for couples seeking state-of-the-art medical care but who have more financial and time flexibility. Generally, the waiting time for a donor is around four months.
Portugal is a rising destination, offering a patient-centered approach, a clear legal framework, and costs comparable to those in Greece, ranging from €7,000 to €9,000. Portuguese clinics often provide personalized programs and support in French or English.
Other countries, such as Cyprus and Lithuania, also offer affordable options, but the availability of egg donors and the level of medical care vary. Therefore, it's important to inquire about accreditations before making a choice.
The waiting time in Portugal is around one year, compared to one month in Cyprus or Lithuania.
Country | Donor Anonymity | Age Limit | Average Cost (€) | Waiting Time | Key Strengths
Greece | Yes | 54 years | 6,500–8,000 | Immediate | Excellent quality/price balance
Spain | Yes | 50 years | 8,000–9,000 | 3 to 6 months | Very high medical standards
Portugal | Yes | 50 years | 7,500–9,000 | 1 to 2 months | Good support and clear framework
Cyprus | Yes | 50 years | 6,000–7,500 | 1 to 2 months | Affordable cost and good flexibility
In an IVF treatment cycle using donor eggs, the immediate availability of donors is a key factor. Many couples have already experienced years of waiting and failed attempts. In Greece, there are many donors, and the process is streamlined, allowing treatment to begin almost immediately.
In Spain or Portugal, waiting times are generally reasonable but vary depending on the desired donor profile.
In France, waiting lists often exceed two years, which leads many patients to seek treatment abroad.
In terms of waiting times, we therefore recommend Greece, followed by Cyprus, then Spain, and then Lithuania.
Before leaving, you must compile a complete medical file (hormone tests, ultrasounds, partner's test results). The foreign clinic will review the file before proposing a suitable treatment plan. Most clinics offer an initial online consultation, and only one trip is necessary for the embryo transfer. Patients should check the certifications (ISO, ESHRE), screening protocols, and the clarity of the contract before committing.
The overall cost includes the treatment, medication, accommodation, and travel.
Greece stands out for its balanced approach: flexible legislation, personalized support, and strong results. The clinics are modern, welcoming, and multilingual. The process is efficient, wait times are nonexistent, and the medical and overall environment is very favorable.
This is why more and more French, Belgian, and Swiss patients are choosing Greece for their IVF treatment with egg donation.
Finding the best clinic
Comparing clinics remains essential. You should ensure that they have the necessary accreditations, that they publish their success rates, and that they offer transparent follow-up. It is recommended to request a quote and an initial consultation before making a decision. Personal feelings and trust are just as important as the price.
► FAQ on questions to ask before IVF
Greece is currently the most advantageous country due to the immediate availability of donors, reasonable costs, and excellent medical care.
Success rates are highest in Spain and Greece, around 60 to 70% depending on the patient's profile.
Prices vary between €6,000 and €10,000 depending on the country: approximately €6,500–€8,000 in Greece, €8,000–€9,000 in Spain, and €7,000–€8,000 in Portugal.
Because donors are immediately available, the law is clear, the age limit is up to 54 years old, and treatments can begin without delay.
In Greece, the waiting time is practically zero. In Spain, it can range from three to six months, and up to two years in some countries.
Hormone tests, ultrasounds, partner's test results, medical history, and identification documents are generally sufficient to begin the treatment protocol.
The best country for egg donation depends on each patient's individual profile, but Greece stands out as the most comprehensive option. It offers immediate availability of donors, reasonable prices, and recognized medical support. Spain remains an excellent choice for its medical expertise, and Portugal offers a compassionate and balanced alternative. For all those who cannot afford to wait, Greece is often the country where the dream of becoming a parent finally comes true.
October 2025 in collaboration with Dr. Petros Syrios