Can You Do IVF Abroad to Save Money? UK vs Overseas Costs Compared
Many UK couples explore IVF abroad as a way to reduce treatment costs. Countries like Spain, Greece, Czech Republic, and Turkey offer fertility services at significantly lower prices. But does going abroad really save money — and what are the trade-offs?
Why people choose IVF abroad:
- Lower costs per cycle
- Shorter waiting lists
- More donor options (especially for eggs)
- Access to treatments not offered in the UK (e.g. gender selection)
Typical IVF costs abroad:
- Czech Republic: £2,000 – £3,500 per cycle
- Greece: £2,500 – £4,000
- Spain: £3,000 – £5,500
- Turkey: £2,000 – £4,500
- UK: £5,000 – £9,500
Medication costs are often similar, but some countries include more in their base package (e.g. scans, freezing).
Add-ons and extras abroad:
- ICSI, PGT-A, and donor eggs may be cheaper
- Egg donation abroad: £3,000 – £6,000 (vs £7,000 – £12,000 in the UK)
Travel and accommodation: While IVF is cheaper overseas, you’ll need to factor in:
- Flights: £100 – £500 per trip
- Hotel stays: £300 – £1,000 per cycle
- Local travel and meals
Hidden costs or risks:
- Language barriers
- Less regulation in some countries
- Post-treatment support can be limited
- Follow-up care must be arranged back in the UK
Best countries for fertility tourism:
- Czech Republic: Known for safety, affordability, and English-speaking clinics
- Greece: Flexible laws, mild climate, donor anonymity
- Spain: High standards, short waits for egg donors
- Turkey: Cost-effective but more restrictive laws
Real-life example: Emma and Dan went to Prague for IVF and spent £3,800 including medication and ICSI. Flights and hotels cost another £900. They saved around £3,500 compared to UK treatment — and got pregnant on their second cycle.
Tips if you’re considering IVF abroad:
- Research clinic accreditations (look for ISO or EU certifications)
- Use a UK-based facilitator if you’re nervous about planning alone
- Arrange local scans before travel to reduce time abroad
- Budget for at least two trips per cycle
IVF abroad can save thousands — especially for egg donation or multiple cycles. But it requires extra planning and care. If done well, it can be a smart way to access treatment more affordably without cutting quality.
