The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has directed prosecutors to prioritize investigations into so-called 'birth tourism' following a court ruling. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Reuters.
'Birth tourism' refers to the practice of foreign nationals traveling to the US to give birth so that their child automatically obtains US citizenship. This practice is considered a violation of US law.
The DOJ directive came after a court ruling, though details of the specific case were not disclosed. Prosecutors have been instructed to allocate additional resources to identify and prosecute violations in this area.
This move is part of broader efforts to tighten US immigration policy. The DOJ has previously prosecuted individuals involved in birth tourism schemes.
Experts suggest the directive could reduce the number of pregnant women traveling to the US for childbirth. However, the DOJ maintains that such measures are necessary to uphold the rule of law.