US Implements Strict Visa Restrictions to Crack Down on Birth Tourism Networks
Photo: Collected
The United States has announced a new visa restriction policy aimed at curbing the abuse of its immigration system and targeting individuals involved in commercial birth tourism, authorities in Washington said.
Under the newly declared policy, the United States will restrict visas for individuals who knowingly engage in, have previously engaged in, or facilitate birth tourism aimed at securing birthright citizenship in the country.
In a press statement, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that foreign commercial birth tourism networks have exploited the American immigration system to sell United States citizenship for profit.
According to the United States Department of State, these networks advertise and coach foreign nationals to make false statements on United States visa applications, often collecting tens of thousands of dollars in exchange for arranging childbirth on American soil solely to acquire citizenship.
Rubio announced the initiative under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The policy specifically targets owners, operators, and managers of commercial birth tourism facilities, visa fixers and brokers who coach applicants in fraudulent methods, foreign medical providers who knowingly assist in such travel and fraudulent use of the Medicaid system, and other enablers of the practice.
The United States Secretary of State emphasized that the administration is utilizing all available tools to protect the prestige of American citizenship, safeguard public welfare benefits and taxpayers from exploitation, and ensure national security.
By limiting visa issuance for both those who participate in the fraud and those who profit from it, the administration aims to send a clear message. The restrictions may also extend to certain family members under the provisions of the immigration law.
