US Birth Tourism- All you need to know 

The US Department of State announced amendments to some visa regulations aimed at curtailing what is known as US birth tourism. These rules affect pregnant women applying for B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism, pleasure, or medical visits) visas. To get a visa, pregnant applicants must now prove they’re not traveling to the US solely for their child to gain American citizenship.

Here are all you need to know about the US Birth Tourism including the new updates:

Birth tourism is a practice whereby pregnant foreign nationals travel to the U.S. to give birth for the purpose of obtaining American citizenship for the child.

Benefits of US Birth Tourism

• US Citizenship for the Child: The child automatically becomes a US citizen, providing access to better education, healthcare, and future job opportunities.
• Education and Employment Opportunities: The child can access top-notch American education and job opportunities, potentially leading to a more successful career.
• Access to Healthcare and Social Services: The child may be eligible for better healthcare and social services, improving their overall quality of life.

Costs and Risks

• High Childbirth Costs: Giving birth in the US(birth tourism) can be expensive, with costs ranging from $15,000 or more without insurance.
• Visa Denials: Consular officers may deny visitor visas if they suspect the primary purpose of travel is for US birth tourism.
• No Direct Green Card or Permanent Residency: The parents don’t gain immediate residency rights, and the child’s citizenship doesn’t automatically grant them a green card.

Recent Policy Changes

• New Rules: As of April 25, 2025, consular officers are required to scrutinize visa applications from pregnant women and deny them if they suspect the primary purpose of the trip is for US birth tourism.
• Visa Screening: The updated rules apply to B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism, pleasure, and medical visits) visas. Pregnant applicants must demonstrate that obtaining US citizenship for their child isn’t the primary purpose of their trip.
• Consequences: If a visa application is denied, the applicant may not be able to enter the US. Existing visas may also be revoked, and individuals who previously gave birth in the US under such circumstances may face permanent entry bans.
• Government’s Stance: The US government views birth tourism in the US as a form of exploitation, posing risks to national security and placing a financial burden on the healthcare system.

These changes aim to prevent foreign nationals from exploiting the US immigration system and birthright citizenship. The policy doesn’t abolish birthright citizenship, which remains protected under the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution.

Still interested in the US Birth Tourism?:

1. Disclose Pregnancy Upfront: Be honest about pregnancy when applying for a visa or entering the US.
2. Plan for Financial Expenses: Ensure you have sufficient funds for childbirth and potential complications.
3. Seek Professional Immigration Advice: Consult reputable immigration/travel agencies to understand options and risks. This is where we come in. Don’t hesitate to send us a message let’s work something out for you.