The U.S. Consulate in Tijuana has issued a strong warning about the risks associated with “birth tourism” in San Diego. Through its official channels, the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Office stated that anyone applying for a visa with the intention of crossing into the U.S. to give birth will be denied.
A large number of women currently travel alone or with their families to the U.S. so their children can be born in the country and obtain American citizenship. For this reason, the Consulate emphasized that if someone plans to use a tourist visa primarily to give birth in the U.S., their visa will not only be denied but could also be revoked.
Consular authorities labeled birth tourism as “unacceptable.” They also highlighted the health risks for mothers and their babies when waiting for hours in vehicle or pedestrian lines to enter U.S. territory.
What Happens to Mothers Who Gave Birth in the U.S.?
Regarding legislation on birth tourism, there is no specific regulation banning pregnant women from entering the country, but immigration officers can deny access if they suspect the sole purpose of the trip is to give birth in the U.S.
For mothers who gave birth in the U.S. on a tourist visa, immigration lawyers have clarified that they should not face negative immigration consequences as long as there are no unpaid hospital bills from the delivery. However, uncovered medical expenses could lead to legal issues.
Finally, it was explained that there are no direct immigration benefits for mothers simply because their children were born on U.S. soil. A U.S.-born child can only begin the process to legalize their parents’ status once they turn 21.
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