US Embassy Strikes Hard on ‘Birth Tourism’ in Visa Policies

The US Embassy in India has tightened its stance on tourist visas, issuing a warning to applicants regarding “birth tourism.” On December 12, 2023, the embassy declared that any individual intending to travel to the United States primarily to give birth and secure citizenship for their child will face immediate visa denial.

In a statement posted on X, the embassy emphasized that US consular officers will reject tourist visa applications if they suspect the main purpose of travel is to have a child in the United States. “This is not permitted,” the embassy asserted, reiterating a policy amendment from 2020 that allows for such denials under the B-1/B-2 visitor visa category.

The US State Department has highlighted that this misuse of tourist visas not only contravenes established policies but also risks imposing financial burdens on American taxpayers through associated medical costs. This new declaration comes amid a broader initiative to enhance scrutiny of visa applicants through social media channels.

Increased Scrutiny and Impact on H-1B Visa Holders

Effective December 15, 2023, a new requirement mandates that all H-1B workers, along with new applicants and their H-4 dependents, provide access to their social media accounts for visa vetting. This policy shift has raised considerable concern among Indian immigrants, who represent over 70 percent of approved H-1B holders and nearly 90 percent of H-4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) recipients. Many individuals fear that these changes could disrupt their careers, financial commitments, and their children’s education.

In addition, the US Embassy has rescheduled a significant number of H-1B and H-4 visa interviews, with some appointments now pushed back to mid-2026. The embassy stated, “If you have received an email advising that your visa appointment has been rescheduled, Mission India looks forward to assisting you on your new appointment date.” Applicants have been cautioned that attending appointments on previously cancelled dates could result in denied entry.

This tightening of visa regulations signifies a broader trend in US immigration policy, particularly in response to what authorities perceive as misuse of the system. As the US continues to navigate its immigration landscape, these developments will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for prospective travelers and workers alike.