Dominicans among those whose visas were canceled for birth tourism

The United States has identified around 600 visas worldwide associated with "birth tourism," a practice where individuals travel to the U.S. primarily to give birth, and Dominican citizens are among those affected. William Swaney, the U.S. consul in the Dominican Republic, confirmed that some Dominican visas fall into this category, though he could not specify the exact number.

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All the consulates in the world are part and it is also an effort led by a working group in Washington, D.C. and of course we participate in that.

This initiative is part of a broader global operation targeting visa fraud, which has led to the suspension of over 175,000 visas for various reasons. The 600 visas specifically relate to the practice of "birth tourism." Swaney explained that all U.S. consulates participate in this effort, which is coordinated by a task force in Washington, D.C.

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Yes

Swaney emphasized that simply paying for the costs associated with giving birth in the United States does not make such travel legal if the primary purpose is to have a baby. Traveling to the U.S. with the sole intention of giving birth is not permitted under visitor visa regulations and can result in visa cancellation. "You cannot go just to give birth in the United States, that is not allowed, regardless of whether I pay or not," he stated.

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To that I cannot say, I really do not have the exact number.

The consul also cautioned against companies and individuals who facilitate these trips as a business. He noted that while rare, exceptions exist for women who may give birth in the U.S. due to unforeseen medical emergencies during transit or pregnancy, provided they have medical documentation proving the birth was unplanned. U.S. authorities aim to reduce such cases through ongoing investigations and enforcement.

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You cannot go just to give birth in the United States, that is not allowed, regardless of whether I pay or not.