US Embassy on Birth Tourism: The US Embassy in India has issued a new advisory on Birth Tourism. As per the advisory, the tourist visa of the applicant will be denied on the spot if the B-1/B-2 applicant is suspected travelling to the United States with the intention of giving birth as a shortcut to the American Citizenship to the child.
In a post on X, the US Embassy in India said, “U.S. consular officers will deny tourist visa applications if they believe the primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for the child. This is not permitted.”
U.S. consular officers will deny tourist visa applications if they believe the primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for the child. This is not permitted. pic.twitter.com/Xyq4lkK6V8
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) December 11, 2025
US Embassy on Birth Tourism: What is Birth Tourism?
As per the US Constitution, anyone born on the US soil is a US Citizen , regardless of the immigration ststus of the parents. Under the 14th Amendment, nearly all children born in the US get automatic citizenship.
Birth tourism refers to the practice of foreigners travelling to the US specifically to give birth. These children are called “anchor babies”, which means that their immigrant parents use the, to get a foothold in the US and eventually become citizens themselves.
US Embassy on Birth Tourism: US Embassy in India’s warning
However, the U.S. targets birth tourism globally, but recent crackdowns and warnings specifically target applicants from India and Nigeria, among others, as consular officers will now deny tourist visas if they suspect the primary intent is to give birth for citizenship, requiring proof of sufficient funds and legitimate travel purpose beyond just delivery.
Social Media screening mandatory for all H-1B and H-4 applicants
In a statement, a US embassy spokesperson said the Department of State already conducts online presence checks for student and exchange visitor visa categories such as F, M, and J. Starting December 15, this review will also include H-1B and H-4 applicants.
This came after the Trump administration’s recent move to make social media screening mandatory for all H-1B and H-4 applicants. This decision has added fresh uncertainty for thousands of workers and families.
The embassy noted that each case undergoes a detailed security review.
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