US Tightens Birth Tourism Visa Rules for Nigeria

The US Mission to Nigeria has intensified warnings against 'birth tourism,' where individuals seek to give birth in the US to obtain citizenship for their child. Consular officers have been directed to deny visas if they suspect childbirth for citizenship is the main intent, with the US government emphasizing this is a misuse of the visa system and a violation of immigration law. The crackdown includes new visa fees, stricter eligibility rules, and heightened scrutiny during visa interviews. Consequences for violators may now include refusal of entry to the US and future travel bans. These measures reflect increased efforts under the Trump administration to address exploitation of the 14th Amendment's birthright citizenship and close immigration loopholes. Visa applicants are urged to be transparent about their travel intentions, as misrepresentation can lead to severe penalties.