Trump bans foreigners travelling to US solely to give birth because of citizenship

The United States government, led by President Donald Trump, has launched a major crackdown on what it describes as “birth tourism”, unveiling actions taken across multiple regions to stop foreign nationals from travelling to America primarily to secure citizenship for their children.

The US Department of State announced on Wednesday, June 10, that embassies and consulates had uncovered several organised networks that allegedly helped applicants obtain visitor visas under false pretences

According to the State Department, the schemes involved the use of fraudulent documents, visa facilitators and coaching services designed to circumvent immigration rules.

The authorities explained that the current policy does not permit individuals to obtain visitor visas solely to give birth in the United States to secure citizenship for a child.

“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.”

Officials disclosed that a US embassy in West Africa recently dismantled a network involving more than 100 foreign nationals. Investigators alleged that the group relied on fake documentation and visa brokers to gain access to America.

The statement further revealed that visas linked to the operation had been revoked and that cooperation with local authorities was ongoing to identify similar activities.

The State Department noted that consular officers are working closely with law enforcement agencies and using data analysis tools to detect suspicious travel patterns and organised networks.

It maintained that visa holders found to have violated immigration rules could face visa cancellations and future travel restrictions.

“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. 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,” the US authorities declared.