UK Specific Legal Processes

DISCLAMER

We are not lawyers or immigration advisers. Everything we share is based on our own surrogacy journey in Colombia and our experience obtaining the CoE, PO, and British passport. This is personal guidance only and not legal advice. Requirements can change, and every case is different. If you need legal certainty, please consult a qualified solicitor. We accept no liability for decisions made using the information we provide.

Step 1

Certificate of Entitlement (Right to Abode)

Black-and-white drawing of a person with glasses and short hair, smiling, with a star and moon in the background.

CoE (Certificate of Entitlement) also known as Right to Abode. This enables for fast return to the UK. Standard timeline is 3 weeks from application. The CoE is issued into the baby’s Colombian passport so some of the Colombian Legal Processes are pre-requisite prior to proceeding with this step. The CoE is possible in Colombia because the baby is issued with a Colombian passport on birth.

How to - CoE Process

Step 2

UK Parental Order

A coat of arms featuring two lions wearing crowns, a crowned lion on top of a shield, and a banner with the motto "Dieu et mon droit".

Parental Order - required by UK legal system for all cases of international surrogacy regardless of circumstances. The process usually takes place after returning to the UK and timeframes vary and typically take 8-12 months. This process is formal, requiring submission of a documentation pack, inspection by UK Cafcas, and finally a hearing at the Royal Courts of Justice in London.

How to - PO Process

Step 3

British Passport

The cover of a British passport with the United Kingdom coat of arms.

British Passport - Application can be done before PO if required for instance if you wish to travel with your newborn overseas on a British passport after returning to Colombia. Application is typically made after PO has been granted.

How to - British Passport Process

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