Legislation on Medically Assisted Reproduction in Greece
The Greek legislation on Medically Assisted Reproduction is among the most comprehensive and flexible in Europe, clearly regulating every aspect of assisted reproduction procedures. The institutional framework is shaped by Law 3089/2002, Law 3305/2005, as well as subsequent amendments, which adapt the legislation to modern developments in science and society.
Legislation on Medically Assisted Reproduction in Greece
The Greek legislation on Medically Assisted Reproduction is among the most comprehensive and flexible in Europe, clearly regulating every aspect of assisted reproduction procedures. The institutional framework is shaped by Law 3089/2002, Law 3305/2005, as well as subsequent amendments, which adapt the legislation to modern developments in science and society.
Permitted Assisted Reproduction Methods
Among the permitted methods are in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI) and surgical sperm retrieval techniques (PESA, TESE, MESA). Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), sperm or egg donation cycles, transfer of a selected number of embryos and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) are also allowed. In addition, surrogacy is covered, ensuring a comprehensive approach to medically assisted reproduction.
Basic provisions of Law 3305/2005
Law 3305/2005 is the main legislative axis that defines the conditions and terms for assisted reproduction techniques, ensuring that their application is carried out in the best interests of the child to be born. The law provides:
- Access to assisted reproductive treatments for women up to 54 years old.
- The applicability of these methods to both married and unmarried couples, as well as to unmarried women.
- The legal regulation of the donation of genetic material (eggs and sperm), which is carried out anonymously and anonymously.
- The possibility of surrogacy, under specific legal conditions and with the consent of the parties involved.
IVF: Age Limits & Legal Requirements
IVF is allowed in cases where a person or a couple cannot have a child naturally.
According to Greek law, the procedure can be performed up to the age of 54. For women aged 50 to 54, a special permit is required from the National Authority for Medically Assisted Reproduction.
Legal Requirements & Consent
In order for the procedure to proceed, the written consent of the couple is required. In cases of cohabiting or unmarried single women, an additional notarial deed confirming consent to the procedure is requir
What is the age limit for women?
By Law 4958/2022, the upper age limit was raised to 54 years.
Is it possible for unmarried or single women to undergo assisted reproduction techniques?
Yes, Greek legislation allows unmarried or single women to access assisted reproduction techniques, provided there is a notarized document that confirms their consent.
Is sex selection permitted?
No, gender selection is prohibited, unless there is a risk of transmitting hereditary diseases related to gender.
What are the age limits for sperm and egg donors?
- Sperm donors: up to 40 years old
Egg donors: up to 35 years old
Are the donors anonymous?
Until 2022, donation was strictly anonymous. With the new law, both anonymous and known donors are now allowed.
Is post-mortem insemination permitted?
Yes, it is allowed under two conditions:
- The deceased had a disease affecting fertility or threatening his/her life.
- He/she must have given a notarised consent before his/her death.
What about cryopreservation of genetic material?
- The duration of cryopreservation is 5 years, with the possibility of extension with written consent to the Cryopreservation Bank.
- In the absence of consent, and in the event of disagreement over their use, divorce, annulment of marriage, separation, dissolution or termination of the civil partnership, the zygotes and fertilised ova shall be retained or used for research or therapeutic purposes or destroyed, following a decision by the authority, at the request of the cryopreservation bank.
When is preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) allowed?
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is allowed with the consent and permission of the National Assisted Reproduction Authority, in order to prevent the transmission of genetic diseases or disorders to the child, as well as to detect causes of infertility, IVF failures or recurrent miscarriages.
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