Sperm donor identity options
Would you like to give your child the option to contact their donor?
One very important decision when selecting a sperm donor is whether to choose an ID Release or Non-ID Release donor. This affects whether your child will have the opportunity to contact their donor once they reach legal age. Below, we break down both options so you can make the decision that best suits your values, family plans, and local regulations.
What is an ID Release donor?
An ID Release donor (also known as an open donor) has agreed that their identifying information can be shared with the child when they reach the legal age to request it (typically at age 18 or 21, based on local laws).
When to choose an ID Release donor:
✔ Your country’s fertility laws require it.
✔ You want your child to have the option to contact their donor in the future.
✔ You prefer openness and the possibility of learning more about the donor beyond the initial profile.
What is a Non-ID Release donor?
A Non-ID Release donor has chosen not to be identifiable to the child at any point in their life.
When to choose a Non-ID Release donor:
✔ Your country’s fertility laws require it.
✔ You prefer to select a donor based only on the information available at the time of donation.
✔ You want clear boundaries – ensuring the donor will never have a role beyond the donation itself.
How does it work in practice?
Who gets to make contact?
Only the donor-conceived child can initiate contact, never the donor.
What kind of information is shared?
The donor’s identity (e.g., full name, contact details) is provided when the child reaches legal age.
Can donors refuse contact?
ID Release donors agree to be identified but are not obligated to establish a relationship.
Can Non-ID Release donors change their minds?
Yes, but they can never initiate contact with the child – just like ID Release donors can't.
From the donor’s perspective: Why do donors choose one or the other?
ID Release donors are often comfortable with the idea of being contacted in the future and see donation as a way to help families while keeping the door open for potential connections.
Non-ID Release donors may prefer privacy and clear boundaries, choosing to donate purely to help without future involvement.
Legislation in your country
Different countries have different regulations regarding donor identity. Some require ID Release donors, while others allow both options. Make sure to check the rules in your country before making your decision.
Other types of donor identity: Known donors and legal considerations
A known donor is someone you personally know who donates sperm for your fertility treatment. While this can be a good option for some, it comes with legal complexities regarding parental rights and responsibilities. Using sperm from an authorized sperm bank ensures that all legal requirements are met, protecting both you and your future child.
The choice is yours, and we're here to help you make it
Your choice between an ID Release or Non-ID Release donor is deeply personal. Consider your values, local laws, and what feels right for your family’s future. Reach out to us if you'd like us to help you decide.
No matter what you choose, using a licensed sperm bank ensures safety, compliance, and peace of mind in your fertility journey.
Useful knowledge
These pages explain topics that are relevant when choosing a sperm donor:
Fertility staff recommended donors
Sperm donors with clean criminal records
Sperm motility: What MOT means for your fertility treatment
Would you like to know more?
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about donor sperm in our FAQ, or try our step-by-step guide with the most important things to consider when choosing a sperm donor.