- The State Department has uncovered and shut down several birth tourism operations spanning West Africa, Europe, and North Africa, revoking visas and implementing travel bans against participants in the schemes.
U.S. embassies discovered coordinated networks designed to help foreign nationals obtain visitor visas with the intent of giving birth in the United States and securing citizenship for their children. The networks allegedly coached applicants on visa interviews, arranged lodging, and coordinated childbirth logistics across multiple continents.
Scope of Operation and Enforcement Actions
One European embassy identified over 400 suspected cases connected to the operation dating to 2024, with investigators linking the activity to at least six companies involved in the scheme. State Department officials have revoked visas, imposed permanent travel bans, and coordinated with local authorities to dismantle similar operations.
A North African embassy revoked more than 100 visas issued to individuals suspected of traveling specifically for birth tourism purposes. “The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system,” State Department messaging stated.
Legal and Political Context
The enforcement action comes as President Donald Trump has pursued aggressive policies against birthright citizenship, signing an executive order in January 2025 aimed at ending the practice. The order has faced multiple legal challenges and temporary pauses, with the Supreme Court expected to rule on its constitutionality by early July.
During oral arguments before the Supreme Court, Trump became the first sitting president to attend such a hearing. Most justices appeared skeptical of the administration’s position, viewing the Fourteenth Amendment’s language on citizenship as unambiguous.
Precedent Cases and Broader Crackdown
Texas previously sued De’Ai Postpartum Care Center in Houston, alleging the facility facilitated births for over 1,000 infants whose parents were Chinese nationals seeking to exploit birthright citizenship laws. The center allegedly coordinated lodging and medical services specifically to enable the practice.
“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right,” State Department officials emphasized, signaling intensified scrutiny of visa applicants suspected of birth tourism intentions. Consular officers are employing data analysis tools and partnering with law enforcement to identify and block similar networks worldwide.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Staff contributed to this report.