Gizane Campos
Birth tourism, also known as pregnancy tourism or maternal tourism, is a growing global phenomenon where expectant parents travel to another country with the specific goal of giving birth there
This practice is typically aimed at securing citizenship for the child through jus soli, the right to citizenship by birth. In 2025, birth tourism continues to spark debates on legality, ethics, immigration policy, and the implications for public resources.
In this article, we explore what birth tourism is, why it’s popular, where it’s legal, and how it works. We’ll also cover the latest birthright citizenship laws in countries like the USA, top destinations for giving birth and acquiring citizenship, and the risks and costs involved.
What is birth tourism?
Birth tourism, sometimes called maternal tourism, pregnancy tourism, or baby tourism, is the practice of traveling to another country to give birth so that the child obtains citizenship by birthright.
This is typically based on the legal principle of jus soli (right of soil), where any child born in a country is automatically granted citizenship, regardless of their parents’ nationality or residency status at the time of the child’s birth.
By contrast, many countries follow jus sanguinis (right of blood), in which citizenship is determined by parental nationality rather than place of birth. Countries that uphold unconditional birthright citizenship are particularly attractive to expectant mothers pursuing birth tourism.
How Birth Tourism Works
Expectant mothers, often with assistance from birth tourism agencies or facilitators, travel to a target country, usually on a tourist visa, during the later stages of pregnancy.
These services (often considered part of a birth tourism scheme) may include help with booking maternity-friendly hotels for recovery post-birth, securing medical care, and handling visa applications. Once the child is born, they receive a birth certificate and citizenship in that country (if the country allows birthright citizenship).
Later, parents may hope that this foreign citizenship grants their child future access to better healthcare, education, and visa-free travel opportunities. Some also anticipate that the child, as a citizen, might eventually sponsor the parents for permanent residency or even citizenship in the future.
Why do people choose birth tourism?
Families pursue birth tourism for a range of personal, legal, and economic reasons. The main motivation is to secure citizenship through birth, which can open doors to better opportunities and increased security for the child.
Key benefits of birth tourism include:
- Dual citizenship for newborns: Many countries allow children to hold both their parents’ nationality and citizenship acquired by birth. This dual citizenship status can make it easier to live, work, or study internationally.
- Visa-free travel benefits: Babies born in countries with birthright citizenship, like the United States or Canada, often receive a passport. These passports can offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel access to over 180 countries, providing exceptional global mobility. This is especially helpful if you come from a country with one of the weakest passports in the world.
- Future residency and settlement options: Citizenship obtained at birth can serve as a Plan B passport to use for long-term residency, higher education opportunities, or future relocation. For example, U.S. citizens can access public universities at resident tuition rates.
- Economic advantages: Some families consider birth tourism a strategic investment, enabling easier access to banking, education funding, and property ownership.
- Potential cost savings over investment visas: While citizenship by investment in places like Portugal or St. Kitts and Nevis can require substantial contributions, birth tourism can help an individual achieve citizenship at a fraction of that cost, mainly limited to medical care and travel expenses.
However, these benefits also come with financial, ethical, and legal considerations. Birth tourism can be expensive, with delivery costs in private hospitals ranging from $5,000 to over $50,000 USD, depending on the destination and level of care.
Best Countries to Give Birth and Get Citizenship in 2025
Below is a breakdown of notable countries offering birthright citizenship or pathways to residency through childbirth in 2025.
This list expands beyond traditional birth tourism destinations to include countries with conditional access, healthcare affordability, and long-term family benefits.
1. Portugal
Portugal is a noteworthy birth tourism destination because of its favorable citizenship laws, particularly for babies born on Portuguese soil. Whether the parents are non-residents or residents, Portugal offers significant benefits to both the child and the parents, provided certain conditions are met for Portuguese citizenship by birth.
According to Global Intelligence Unit’s briefing on how Portugal’s economy is being revitalized by immigration, immigrants are playing a central role in Portugal’s economic resurgence. As the country faces demographic challenges like an aging population and declining birth rates, immigrants and foreign families have become essential to sustaining a balanced workforce and supporting the pension system.
While birth tourism itself is only one small part of these migration patterns, it reflects Portugal’s openness to attracting new residents and creating opportunities for families seeking Portugal citizenship.
2. Ireland
Ireland ended unconditional jus soli citizenship in 2005, but it remains a notable birth tourism destination thanks to the long-term opportunities it can offer families. A child born in Ireland can open the door to residency and, eventually, citizenship, granting EU mobility and the right to live, work, and study across member states.
The country’s strong passport, English-speaking environment, and high quality of life make it appealing for families seeking stability and integration. Authorities, however, closely monitor visa compliance, so any settlement plans require careful adherence to immigration rules.
3. Spain
Spain does not grant automatic birthright citizenship, but families may still view it as a valuable birth tourism destination due to the potential for long-term settlement within the EU. A child born in Spain can support future residency (leading to Spanish citizenship) and, over time, access to one of Europe’s strongest passports, offering extensive travel freedoms.
With its vibrant culture, strong education system, and position within the Schengen Area, Spain appeals to those seeking both lifestyle and mobility benefits. Immigration rules are closely enforced, so families need to maintain lawful status throughout their stay.
4. Luxembourg
Luxembourg grants citizenship by birth only under specific conditions, yet its appeal lies in the long-term advantages that can come with EU citizenship. Families may see a child’s birth here as part of a wider plan for eventual settlement in a stable and prosperous European state.
Known for its multilingual culture, high living standards, and strong economy, Luxembourg offers a secure environment for raising children. Immigration pathways are clearly defined, though parents must follow them diligently to maintain legal status.
5. Greece
Greece follows restrictive jus soli policies, so a birth alone does not automatically confer Greek citizenship. Even so, the country attracts interest for the future opportunities a child’s nationality may create within the EU, including free movement and access to other member states.
Its Mediterranean lifestyle, cultural heritage, and strategic location between Europe and Asia make Greece appealing for long-term settlement. Families should be mindful that immigration compliance is monitored closely, and routes to citizenship require patience.
6. Italy
Italy’s citizenship laws are based on jus sanguinis, making automatic citizenship by birth rare. However, a child born here can still be part of a longer-term plan for EU residency and eventual naturalization.
Families may also consider the Italy Golden Visa as a pathway to residency, offering investment-based entry to the country and, in time, eligibility for citizenship. Combined with Italy’s rich cultural life, strong educational institutions, and access to the wider European market, these routes make it an appealing choice for those planning a long-term presence in Europe.
7. Canada
Canada offers unconditional birthright citizenship, granting any child born on its soil full Canadian citizenship rights. This makes it one of the most sought-after destinations for birth tourism worldwide.
A Canadian passport provides extensive global mobility and access to high-quality public services. Parents should be aware that while the child’s citizenship is immediate, their own residency or citizenship requires following standard immigration processes.
8. Mexico
Mexico also grants unconditional jus soli citizenship, with a child born in the country gaining nationality automatically. This opens a straightforward route for families aiming to build ties in Latin America.
With its diverse culture, growing economy, and regional trade connections, Mexico offers both lifestyle and strategic advantages. Residency options for parents exist but must be pursued through formal immigration channels.
9. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda provide automatic citizenship to any child born in the country, making it a favorable choice for families considering birth tourism in the Caribbean.
The Antigua and Barbuda passport offers strong travel benefits, including visa-free access to many countries. Settlement pathways are available for parents, but these involve separate residency and naturalization processes.
10. Costa Rica
Costa Rica grants automatic citizenship to those born on its soil, making it a popular choice in Central America for birth tourism.
Its reputation for political stability, environmental protection, and quality of life adds to its appeal. Parents can explore residency options after birth, though these follow the country’s standard immigration procedures.
11. Brazil
Brazil offers unconditional citizenship to children born in the country, providing them with full rights from birth.
A Brazilian passport grants access to a wide network of countries and regional blocs like Mercosur. Parents may apply for residency following the child’s birth, but must meet legal requirements to progress toward permanent status.
12. Argentina
Argentina provides unconditional birthright citizenship, making it a well-known choice for families looking to establish future mobility options for their children.
The country combines strong passport benefits with cultural vibrancy and economic potential in South America. Parents can pursue residency after birth, but full citizenship remains a separate, longer-term process.
Country | Citizenship Eligibility | Hospital Costs | |
 | Portugal | One parent must have legally resided in Portugal for at least one year before the child’s birth. | - Public hospitals are low-cost for residents; - Private births range from €4,000 to €7,000. |
 | Ireland | One parent must have legally resided in Ireland for three of the four years before the child’s birth. | - Public healthcare services are free or low-cost for residents; - Private births range from €4,000 to €10,000. |
 | Spain | Child may apply after one year of legal residency; parents can later pursue residency via family reunification. | - Free or low-cost for residents; - €3,000 to €8,000 for private hospitals. |
 | Luxembourg | Granted if child has lived in Luxembourg 5 years before age 18 or if parents lived there 12 months before birth. | - Public care covered for residents; - Private hospitals charge €5,000 to €8,000. |
 | Greece | After 6 years of schooling in Greece if parents are legal residents. | - Public hospitals are low-cost or free; - Private costs range from €3,000 to €6,000. |
 | Italy | Child can apply for Italian citizenship at age 18 if they have lived continuously in Italy since birth. | - Public hospitals are low-cost or free; - Private deliveries cost €3,000 to €7,000. |
 | Canada | All children born in Canada (except to foreign diplomats) receive automatic citizenship. | Free for residents; non-residents pay CAD 10,000 to CAD 25,000. |
 | Mexico | Any child born on Mexican soil automatically gains citizenship. | - Public hospitals are low-cost; - Private care ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 USD. |
 | Antigua and Barbuda | Automatic for children born after October 31, 1981 (except those of diplomats or wartime enemies). | Private hospitals range from $3,000 to $5,000 USD. |
 | Costa Rica | Children born in Costa Rica can gain citizenship and help parents apply for residency and later citizenship. | Private care typically costs $3,500 to $6,000 USD. |
 | Brazil | Automatic citizenship to any child born on Brazilian soil (except diplomats’ children). | Private deliveries range from $3,000 to $7,000 USD. |
 | Argentina | All children born in Argentina automatically gain citizenship. | Private hospitals charge between $2,500 and $5,000 USD. |
Birth Tourism in the USA: New Rules and Scrutiny
The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for birth tourism in 2025, largely due to its constitutional protection of jus soli, or birthright citizenship. Under the 14th Amendment, any child born on U.S. soil, regardless of the parents’ nationality or legal status, is automatically granted U.S. citizenship.
This powerful passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, public education benefits, and a pathway to sponsor family members in the future.
However, U.S. immigration authorities have increased oversight of birth tourism in recent years. Since 2020, the U.S. Department of State has implemented new visa policies targeting suspected birth tourism applicants:
- Consular officers are authorized to deny B-2 tourist visas if they believe there is the potential for visa fraud where the applicant’s wants to enter the U.S. primarily for giving birth and to obtain citizenship for their child.
- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Justice have investigated and prosecuted individuals and agencies running birth tourism operations, particularly in Southern California, where large-scale schemes catering to Chinese nationals were uncovered.
- Violations such as visa fraud, misrepresentation on entry forms, and overstaying legal status can lead to deportation, visa bans, denied re-entry, or criminal prosecution.
The U.S. government has made it clear that birthright citizenship remains in effect, but efforts are focused on curbing abuse of immigration laws and preventing organized birth tourism schemes that undermine the visa system.
Controversies and Ethical Concerns
Birth tourism remains a polarizing topic, raising complex ethical, legal, and social questions in countries that offer jus soli or birth citizenship.
While families see it as a strategic and legal way to secure a better future for their children, critics argue that the practice exploits immigration loopholes and places unnecessary burdens on public infrastructure.
Key criticisms include:
- Strain on public healthcare systems: In countries like the U.S. and Canada, unpaid medical bills from non-resident births can cost hospitals millions of dollars annually, particularly when births occur in taxpayer-funded public hospitals.
- Unfair immigration advantages: Opponents argue that birth tourism offers a “backdoor” to citizenship, where wealthy families can bypass traditional immigration routes and eventually leverage the child’s citizenship to reunify or naturalize the entire family.
- Anchor baby concerns: The term “anchor baby” has entered political discourse, especially in the United States, as a critique of using birthright citizenship to gain eventual immigration benefits for parents and relatives.
- National security and visa integrity: Authorities have expressed concern that misuse of visitor visas for childbirth could compromise border control systems and set dangerous precedents.
In response, many governments have implemented stricter visa screening procedures, denied entry to suspected birth tourists, and launched criminal investigations into for-profit birth tourism rings. Still, the balance between upholding birthright citizenship and preventing abuse remains a contentious issue.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Birth Tourism
What is birth tourism?
Birth tourism is when pregnant women travel to another country to give birth so their child can gain citizenship by birth, often under jus soli laws. This is common in countries like the USA, Canada, and Mexico, where babies born automatically receive citizenship.
Is birth tourism legal in the United States?
The act of giving birth in the U.S. isn’t illegal, but lying on a tourist visa or misrepresenting your intent can lead to visa fraud, deportation, or entry bans. The U.S. has tightened scrutiny of visa applicants since 2020.
Why do families choose birth tourism?
Many seek dual citizenship, access to visa-free travel, future education benefits, or a legal “Plan B passport” for their child. It’s often more affordable than investment migration programs.
What countries allow birthright citizenship in 2025?
Countries like the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Costa Rica still offer unconditional birthright citizenship to children born on their soil.
What are the visa requirements for birth tourism?
Visa requirements for birth tourism depend on the country. Many nations require a valid tourist visa or ESTA authorization, proof of financial means, and sometimes evidence of medical insurance. Some countries may ask travelers to declare the purpose of their visit, and failure to disclose intent could result in denial of entry.
How much does birth tourism cost?
Costs range widely:
- USA: $10,000 to $50,000.
- Canada: CAD 10,000 to 25,000.
- Mexico/Brazil: $2,000 to $7,000.
Prices depend on hospital type, medical care, and lodging.
How does birth tourism impact immigration policies?
Birth tourism has led some countries to tighten visa policies, enhance border screening, and limit automatic citizenship rights.
Governments may introduce rules requiring at least one parent to be a citizen or legal resident to qualify for birthright citizenship, aiming to prevent misuse and protect social services.
Can birth tourism help parents get residency or citizenship?
In countries like Brazil, Mexico, or Costa Rica, parents may later qualify for residency status through family reunification. In other countries, it has no effect on their immigration status.
Are pregnant Chinese women still engaging in birth tourism?
Yes. Pregnant Chinese women remain a large segment of birth tourism, especially to the USA.
Authorities have cracked down on organized birth tourism schemes featuring mainland Chinese women, especially in Southern California.
Can consular officers deny visas for suspected birth tourism?
Yes. If consular officers suspect a woman’s main reason for travel is to give birth, they can deny a B-2 tourist visa. Suspicion is higher if the applicant is a visibly pregnant woman or has no ties that would encourage her or her partner to return back home.
What is the difference between birthright citizenship and conditional citizenship?
Birthright citizenship (unconditional) is automatic at birth.
Conditional citizenship requires that parents meet criteria like residency, as seen in Spain, Ireland, or Portugal.
What happens if hospital bills go unpaid?
In countries like the USA or Canada, unpaid hospital bills from non-resident births can lead to collections or future visa refusals. Some public hospitals may absorb the costs.
Is birth tourism allowed on a tourist visa?
Technically, yes, but only if giving birth is not the main purpose of your trip.
Using a tourist visa solely for childbirth may be flagged as misuse, especially in countries with strict screening.
Can babies born abroad have dual citizenship?
Often, yes. Many countries allow dual citizenship by combining the birth country’s citizenship with the parents’ nationality. But it depends on the laws of both countries involved.
