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| Nigerian applicants face stricter visa review rules |
On July 28, 2025, the United States Mission in Nigeria issued a clear warning. Any visa seeker who states or implies their main goal is to give birth on US soil will see their application refused . The move aims to curb “birth tourism,” where expectant mothers travel on visitor visas to secure citizenship for newborns.
The Mission stressed that consular officers now screen more closely for birth‑tourism intent. If an applicant’s primary purpose is childbirth, that visa is denied on the spot . Even travellers who hold valid B‑1/B‑2 visas may face extra questions at port‑of‑entry.
This new stance builds on a 2020 regulation. Then, the State Department said travel to seek medical care—including giving birth—is allowed if it’s not the primary intent. But enforcement was light. Now, with rising global scrutiny, officers follow guidance to presume any pregnant visitor aims for birth right citizenship—unless the applicant proves otherwise .
Nigeria ranks high among nations with citizens requesting US visitor visas. In 2024, Nigeria accounted for over 35,000 B‑1/B‑2 applications . While most applicants travel for tourism or business, a small number have used visas for childbirth. Under the new rule, all Nigerian applicants will face closer review if they disclose pregnancy or present medical notes.
Birthright citizenship is enshrined in the 14th Amendment. Any child born in the US automatically gains citizenship. Some families see this as a pathway to secure rights and benefits for their child. Critics say this practice strains resources and exploits legal loopholes.
In April 2025, the US Department of State reiterated that using a visitor visa solely for childbirth breaks immigration rules . That statement came after a high‑profile court case in California, where operators of a “birth tourism” network faced charges for visa fraud and money laundering. The government sentenced one organizer to more than three years in prison—sending a clear signal of tougher action.
For many Nigerians, access to US medical care is a draw. Some high‑risk pregnancies seek advanced neonatal services. The new policy recognizes genuine medical need as an exception. Applicants must show evidence of a complex condition requiring US‑based treatment unavailable at home, plus proof of funds and medical insurance . Otherwise, the presumption of birth‑tourism stands.
Nigerian law firms and visa consultancies report a surge in client concerns. “We now ask pregnant clients to delay application or prepare detailed medical justification,” says Oluchi Eze, Abuja‑based immigration lawyer. Her team guides expectant mothers through health‑care affidavits and insurance policies to meet the rebuttable presumption standard.
What Applicants Must Do
1. Be Clear on Purpose: Explain primary reason for visit—tourism, business, family.
2. Prepare Medical Documents: Only clear medical need can overturn the birth‑tourism presumption.
3. Show Ties to Home: Job letters, property deeds and family commitments prove intent to return.
4. Buy Adequate Insurance: Cover full stay and any unexpected costs.
Without these, consular officers will presume a birth‑tourism motive and deny the visa.
At airports, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers ask about trip purpose. A visibly pregnant visitor without clear medical need may face extra screening. CBP advises travellers to carry prenatal records and return‑ticket confirmations . Officers can deny entry if they suspect birth tourism.
Visa denial for birth tourism carries baggage. Future applications—even for work or study—face higher scrutiny. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns citizens that one denial can haunt travel plans for years.
Social media buzzed after the announcement. On X, many praised the zero‑tolerance stance. Others argued the policy could harm women who truly need care. Health‑rights groups in Lagos urge clearer guidelines to protect legitimate medical travellers.
Dr. Amaka Obi, public‑health specialist at University of Lagos, says clear rules help hospitals plan. But she cautions, “We must not deter women with high‑risk pregnancies from seeking life‑saving care abroad.” Her team urges bilateral talks to streamline medical‑visa channels.
The US aligns with countries tightening birth‑tourism rules. China, Canada and parts of Europe have taken similar steps. For Nigeria, this policy underlines the need to boost maternal health services at home.
For now, any Nigerian planning US travel should review visa requirements carefully. Transparency and strong documentation remain the key to approval.