The United States government has intensified its efforts against birth tourism networks, revoking more than 600 visas issued to foreigners who exploited the system to secure American citizenship for their children. The Department of State announced this in a post on X on June 10, emphasizing its commitment to defending the integrity of U.S. citizenship by ending illegal birth tourism schemes.
Visa Revocations Across Regions
The department disclosed that over 100 visas obtained through such schemes were revoked in West Africa, while more than 400 and 100 visas were canceled in Europe and North Africa, respectively. It reiterated that no foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa primarily for the purpose of giving birth in the United States.
West Africa Network Dismantled
According to the statement, a U.S. embassy in West Africa uncovered a sophisticated network involving over 100 foreign nationals who used fraudulent documents and visa fixers to acquire visas for birth tourism. The visas were revoked, the operation was shut down, and the embassy coordinated with local authorities to identify similar cases.
European Operations Exposed
In Europe, investigators traced more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases since 2024 to at least six companies. These firms allegedly coached applicants on visa interview responses, arranged housing in the U.S., and set up delivery plans. The department revoked the visas, shut down the operations, and permanently banned several fraudsters from entering the United States.
North Africa Crackdown
Similarly, a U.S. embassy in North Africa revoked over 100 visas issued to birth tourist parents who traveled primarily to give birth so their children would gain U.S. citizenship. The department stated that consular officers, working with law enforcement and using data analytics, identified several networks abusing the system and put a stop to it.
The State Department's tweet read: Under President Trump, the State Department is defending the integrity of U.S. citizenship by ending illegal birth tourism schemes. No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring U.S. citizenship for a child by giving birth in the U.S.
