El Paso, Texas – The U.S. Department of State announced a dedicated task force aimed at stopping birth‑tourism fraud, a scheme in which illegal immigrants obtain tourist visas while planning to give birth on U.S. soil so their child automatically receives citizenship. Within the first few weeks, the task force has revoked more than 900 visas and is reviewing both pending applications and already‑issued visas.
How the task force operates
Deputy spokesman Luke Ortega explained that officials are combing through visa applications and travel records with a “fine‑tooth comb” to spot patterns that suggest birth‑tourism intent. Reviewers examine travel itineraries, listed contacts, and planned accommodations to identify red flags. When a revocation is made, the information is passed to the Department of Homeland Security for enforcement action.
Targeting larger networks
Beyond individual applicants, the task force is also focusing on foreign networks and commercial operators that market birth‑tourism packages. These operators often leave hospitals with unpaid bills, shifting the cost to American taxpayers. Ortega emphasized that U.S. citizenship is a “sacred privilege” that should not be bought or sold.
Broader visa enforcement
Ortega noted that the task force is part of a larger effort to increase visa revocations across all categories. Since the start of the Trump administration, more than 175,000 visas have been revoked, many belonging to individuals involved in crimes such as drunk driving, assault, burglary, and drug offenses. The State Department frames these actions as essential to national security and the orderly flow of lawful travelers.
Impact on communities
Officials say the crackdown protects local communities by removing those who abuse the immigration system and shift costs onto taxpayers. By targeting both individual fraudsters and organized rings, the administration aims to preserve the integrity of the visa system and safeguard American families.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
