A new move by US President Donald Trump could change how some foreign families plan childbirth in America.
Trump has signed two executive orders targeting what his administration calls “birth tourism.” The policy could affect Nigerians and other foreigners travelling to the US to give birth.
The orders seek to restrict birthright citizenship for some children born on American soil. The White House says the move is aimed at stopping abuse of the immigration system.
“They’ve taken birthright citizenship and they’ve made a joke out of it,” Trump told journalists in the Oval Office.
The latest action follows an earlier executive order that faced legal challenges. Lower courts blocked that order over concerns about the 14th Amendment.
The US Supreme Court later ruled against Trump’s earlier effort in a June 30 decision. Trump described the ruling as “very unfortunate.”
“We’re making adjustments because it’s very unfair,” he said.
Trump’s latest orders are focused on foreigners who enter the United States under temporary arrangements. They also target people accused of using travel as a way to secure US citizenship for their children.
The administration has described the practice as “birth tourism.” Officials argue that it places pressure on the immigration system.
However, the new policy is already facing questions from legal experts and immigration groups.
Immigration advocates have warned that “they seek to circumvent the Supreme Court’s ruling.” The American Civil Liberties Union has also indicated that legal challenges could follow.
The 14th Amendment generally grants US citizenship to people born in the country. There are limited exceptions, including children of foreign diplomats.
US authorities already have powers to deny visas when childbirth is believed to be the main reason for travel.
For Nigerians planning US travel, the latest development could create more uncertainty around visa applications. Travellers may face closer scrutiny if officials suspect childbirth is their main reason for visiting.
