Trump Administration Targets Birth Tourism
The Trump administration is focusing on visa enforcement to counter birth tourism, a scheme involving foreign nationals securing visitor visas to give birth in the U.S., thereby obtaining American citizenship for their children.
Recently, officials reported dismantling a ‘sophisticated birth tourism network’ operating in West Africa. This network involved over 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and intermediaries to gain entry into the U.S. for childbirth on American soil.
The State Department has uncovered more networks, identifying over 400 suspected cases linked to European origins since 2024. These cases involve at least six companies that allegedly coached applicants for visas, arranged accommodations, and organized childbirth logistics in the U.S.
A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the administration’s efforts to revoke visas and collaborate with local authorities to halt such operations. Additionally, President Trump issued a 2025 executive order seeking to redefine the criteria for birthright citizenship.
Anna Kelly, a White House spokesperson, stated, “President Trump will always put the American people first.” She highlighted the financial burden and security risks posed by unrestricted birth tourism, aligning U.S. policies with those of many other nations.
The Federation for American Immigration Reform’s Ira Mehlman acknowledged the significant visa fraud issue, exacerbated by the prospect of birthright citizenship. He suggested eliminating the automatic citizenship incentive for children of non-citizens and non-permanent residents to reduce fraud.
In California, federal prosecutors have gained convictions against operators of companies, such as USA Happy Baby and You Win USA, accused of helping Chinese women bear American-citizen children. In Texas, Attorney General Ken Paxton has taken legal action against a postpartum center allegedly aiding over 1,000 births for Chinese clients.
Ira Mehlman also urged Congress to enhance visa applicant vetting and pursue legal actions against entities promoting birth tourism, both domestically and internationally. He noted the involvement of U.S.-based service providers in these schemes, including hospitals.