U.S. immigration enforcement increases scrutiny on maternity and marriage

Heightened immigration enforcement under the Donald Trump administration is causing concern among migrants regarding visa stability. Legal experts report a rise in inquiries related to two specific areas: maternity tourism and marriage fraud.

Regarding childbirth in the United States, immigration attorney Josefina Orozco noted a “social panic” among mothers. While an executive order exists to combat “maternity tourism,” Orozco clarified that giving birth in the U.S. does not automatically result in visa loss. However, risks include unpaid medical debts and providing inconsistent information on visa forms, such as failing to disclose children born in the U.S., which can be detected by authorities years later.

Separately, legal specialist César Pérez warned of increased investigations into marriage fraud. Providing false information to obtain residency or citizenship can lead to permanent visa cancellation and deportation for the applicant, while the petitioner may also face legal action or expulsion. Experts recommend that those in bona fide relationships maintain extensive documentation, such as shared expenses and communications, to verify the authenticity of their unions during potential inspections.