Taiwan clarifies rules on sperm and egg donation, addressing eligibility and anonymity

Taiwan's National Health Administration (NHA) has issued a comprehensive guide to address frequently asked questions about sperm and egg donation, clarifying eligibility, compensation, and the anonymity of the process. The information aims to provide clarity on the medical, ethical, and legal aspects involved in assisted reproduction.

According to the NHA, donors must meet specific age criteria: men must be between 20 and 50 years old, and women between 20 and 40. Beyond age, potential donors undergo rigorous health and psychological evaluations, including assessments of family history and infectious diseases, to ensure the safety and viability of the donation. A critical rule states that once a donation results in a live birth for a recipient couple, the donor cannot donate again. Any remaining sperm or eggs must be destroyed, with a second donation only permitted if the initial attempt did not result in a live birth and no embryos remain.

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Donors cannot designate specific recipients, nor can recipients choose specific donors. The identities of both parties are kept confidential.

Compensation for donation is regulated, with a maximum of NT$99,000 for egg donation and NT$8,000 for sperm donation. The NHA advises donors to fully understand the payment structure offered by fertility clinics to avoid disputes. Emphasizing privacy, Taiwan operates under an anonymous donation system. Donors cannot designate specific recipients, nor can recipients choose specific donors. The identities of both parties are kept confidential to protect their privacy and prevent potential conflicts.

Furthermore, the NHA clarified that donors relinquish all rights and claims to the donated gametes after donation. They cannot demand their return unless diagnosed with infertility. Importantly, children born through sperm or egg donation are legally considered the offspring of the recipient couple. Donors have no legal kinship, parental responsibilities, or inheritance rights concerning the child. This framework ensures legal clarity and protects the interests of all parties involved in the assisted reproduction process.

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Children born through sperm or egg donation are legally considered the offspring of the recipient couple. Donors have no legal kinship, parental responsibilities, or inheritance rights concerning the child.