State Department Targets Alleged Birth Tourism Networks in Multiple Regions
The U.S. State Department has identified and disrupted several alleged birth tourism networks operating overseas, according to a report published Wednesday. The operations were reportedly uncovered by U.S. embassies in West Africa, Europe, and North Africa during investigations into suspected visa fraud.
According to The Daily Wire, consular officials discovered schemes designed to help foreign nationals obtain visitor visas for the primary purpose of traveling to the United States to give birth, allowing their children to acquire U.S. citizenship under existing birthright citizenship laws.
State Department officials said one network in West Africa was dismantled, resulting in the revocation of visas issued to individuals connected to the operation. The department is also working with local authorities to identify and disrupt similar organizations.
In Europe, investigators reportedly identified more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases dating back to 2024. The investigation allegedly linked the activity to at least six companies accused of coaching visa applicants for consular interviews, arranging travel and accommodations, and coordinating childbirth in the United States. Officials said visas associated with the operation were revoked, and several individuals received permanent travel bans.
A separate investigation in North Africa led to the revocation of more than 100 visas issued to individuals accused of traveling primarily to give birth in the United States. According to the report, consular officers worked alongside law enforcement agencies and used data analysis to identify networks suspected of exploiting the U.S. visa system.
The State Department reiterated that obtaining a visitor visa for the primary purpose of securing U.S. citizenship for a child is prohibited under U.S. immigration policy. Officials emphasized that a U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right, and said the department will continue efforts to dismantle fraudulent birth tourism operations worldwide.
The report comes as legal challenges continue over President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to restrict birthright citizenship, an issue that remains under review in the federal courts.
