Can I have IVF in Switzerland?
It depends on the method — IVF is allowed, some methods aren't. In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and medically assisted reproduction are permitted for couples under the Reproductive Medicine Act (FMedG). Since marriage-for-all (July 2022), married female couples can also access sperm donation. Sperm donation is allowed but currently reserved for married couples; the child has a right to know its descent. Egg donation is currently banned — a legalisation is underway (not yet in force as of 2026). Embryo donation and surrogacy are banned. In short: IVF yes, sperm donation for married couples, egg donation and surrogacy (still) no.
📋 The rules
- IVF / assisted reproduction: allowed for couples (FMedG)
- Sperm donation: allowed, reserved for married couples
- Since marriage-for-all also female couples (sperm donation)
- Egg donation: currently banned (reform underway)
- Embryo donation and surrogacy: banned
🔓 Exceptions
- Child has a right to know its descent (donor register)
- Egg-donation legalisation not in force in 2026 (unconfirmed)
- Treatment in licensed centres
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Performing or arranging a method banned in Switzerland — especially surrogacy — is punishable. Egg and embryo donation are also not permitted under current law. Beware a myth: "everything in reproductive medicine is allowed in Switzerland" is false — IVF and sperm donation are allowed, but egg donation and surrogacy are banned. Tip: get advice at a licensed reproduction centre that knows the permitted methods, and note that egg donation is still banned, even though a reform is being discussed. Specialist advice can help with planning.
📎 Official sources
- BAG · reproductive-medicine legislation →
- ch.ch · medically assisted reproduction →
- Fedlex · Reproductive Medicine Act (FMedG) →
❓ Frequently asked
Is IVF allowed in Switzerland?
Yes. In-vitro fertilisation and medically assisted reproduction are permitted for couples under the Reproductive Medicine Act. Since marriage-for-all, married female couples can also access sperm donation. Treatment takes place in licensed reproduction centres under the statutory conditions.
Is sperm donation allowed?
Yes, sperm donation is allowed, but currently reserved for married couples. The child conceived this way has a right to know its descent, which is why the donor data is recorded in a register. Since marriage-for-all, sperm donation is also open to married female couples.
Is egg donation allowed?
Under current law, egg donation is banned in Switzerland. A legalisation is, however, underway: Parliament accepted a corresponding motion and the Federal Council set key parameters. As of 2026 the legalisation isn't yet in force, so egg donation remains not permitted for now.
Is surrogacy allowed?
No. Surrogacy is banned in Switzerland, both under the Constitution and under the Reproductive Medicine Act. Performing or arranging surrogacy is punishable. Embryo donation is also not permitted. These bans apply regardless of the residence of the people involved in the arrangement.
Can same-sex couples use IVF?
Since marriage-for-all in 2022, married female couples can access sperm donation and so have a child. For other constellations, the general limits of the law apply, in particular the ban on egg donation and surrogacy. Get advice at a licensed centre about your options.
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