Yes, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is legal in Portugal, governed by Law No. 32/2006 and subsequent amendments, including the 2023 revision aligning with EU reproductive rights directives. The Assisted Reproduction Act (ARA) regulates IVF, permitting procedures for heterosexual couples, single women, and female same-sex couples, with strict ethical and medical oversight by the Comissão Nacional para a Procriação Medicamente Assistida (CNPMA).
Key Regulations for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in Portugal
- Eligibility Criteria: IVF is permitted for women under 50 (extended from 45 in 2023) and requires medical justification for fertility preservation. Single women and female couples must demonstrate stable relationships for at least two years.
- Embryo Storage & Disposal: Embryos may be stored for up to 10 years (renewable under medical necessity) under CNPMA supervision. Unused embryos must be donated for research or discarded with parental consent.
- Genetic Testing & Screening: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is allowed for severe genetic disorders but banned for sex selection unless medically justified. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is regulated under Decree-Law No. 6/2022.
The Direção-Geral da Saúde (DGS) enforces compliance, while the Ordem dos Médicos sets professional standards. A 2026 draft amendment proposes expanding access to transgender individuals post-gender affirmation, pending parliamentary approval. Violations of ARA provisions may result in fines up to €50,000 or license revocation for clinics.