How Much Does IVF with an Egg Donor Cost in the UK vs Europe?
- Your IVF abroad
- May 6
- 4 min read
If you’re exploring IVF using donor eggs, one of the biggest (and most overwhelming) questions you’ll face is: how much is this actually going to cost?
With prices varying wildly depending on where you go, and hidden fees lurking beneath every glossy clinic brochure, it’s no wonder so many people feel unsure about what’s realistic — financially, emotionally, and logistically.
Whether you're just beginning to explore egg donation or are further along in your fertility journey, here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay — and what to watch out for — when comparing donor egg IVF in the UK vs Europe.
💷 UK vs Europe: What’s the Cost Difference?
In the UK, IVF using donor eggs typically costs:
£9,000 – £14,000 per cycle, depending on the clinic
Plus extra for medications, donor matching, embryo freezing, and storage
In Europe, the average cost tends to be significantly lower:
£4,000 – £7,000 per cycle in countries like Spain, Greece, or the Czech Republic
Even with travel, accommodation, and translation support, many families find the total cost still comes in under UK prices
Clinics abroad often offer package deals that include donor eggs, fertilisation, embryo transfer, and freezing — making costs easier to predict.
👀 Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Wherever you go, make sure you’re factoring in:
Medication costs (these are often not included in advertised packages)
Embryo freezing and storage fees
Consultation or admin charges
Legal paperwork (especially important if your donor is anonymous)
Always ask for a full breakdown in writing so you’re not caught off guard later on.
🌍 Why Do So Many Families Choose Europe?
Here’s why more UK-based couples are considering treatment abroad:
Affordability: It’s often thousands of pounds cheaper per cycle
Shorter wait times for donor matching
Wide donor pools, including different ethnicities and physical traits
Highly regulated clinics with strong reputations and success rates
Countries like Spain, Greece, and the Czech Republic are especially popular for their combination of price, quality, and patient care
Many clinics also offer English-speaking coordinators and specialist teams to support international patients through every stage of the process.
✈️ But What About Travel and Language Barriers?
Travelling abroad for IVF might sound daunting, but most clinics have a well-oiled system in place for overseas patients. Still, here are a few things to consider:
Can the clinic coordinate with your UK GP or specialist?
Will you need multiple trips — or can most of the process be done remotely?
Is support available in your language?
Are the clinic’s success rates transparent and independently verified?
Do your research, and don’t hesitate to ask questions until you feel completely confident.
🤍 Open vs Anonymous Donors: Emotional & Ethical Considerations
In the UK, donors are typically identity-release — meaning your child can request the donor’s identity at age 18. In many parts of Europe, donors are legally anonymous.
This can raise big questions about future identity, genetics, and openness — so it’s worth thinking carefully about what feels right for your family, and how you’ll navigate that in the future.
Ask yourself:
How do I feel about donor anonymity?
What will I tell my child about their conception?
Does the clinic offer counselling to help us explore these questions?
💡 Some UK Families Still Choose to Stay Local — Why?
Despite the price differences, some people opt to stay in the UK for:
Legal clarity and donor traceability
Emotional support and continuity of care
The comfort of being close to home, especially for those with health conditions or children already
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it’s about what’s right for you.
Choosing donor egg IVF is a deeply personal, emotional journey — and the decision about where to have treatment is a major part of that. Whether you stay in the UK or explore more affordable options in Europe, the key is being informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way.
There is no “perfect” choice. But there is a path that’s right for you, your values, and your future family.
If you need help navigating international clinics, comparing costs, or figuring out your next step, reach out — you don’t have to go through this alone.
Free Resources & Step-By-Step Guides
Want to find out more about having fertility treatment in mainland Europe?
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Your IVF abroad podcast & pick my brain call with me
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