image sourced from original article at A California-based obstetrician of Indian origin, Dr. Athiya Javid, is among four maternity-related businesses that have received inquiry letters from the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform as part of a congressional probe into so-called 'birth tourism.' Lawmakers allege that some businesses profit from foreign nationals traveling to the United States on temporary visas to give birth so their children obtain automatic citizenship under the Fourteenth Amendment.
The committee has requested records dating back to January 2020, including advertising materials, client contracts, visa-related guidance and revenue details tied to maternity services for international patients. The inquiry claims certain practices may have provided logistical and legal assistance beyond medical care. Dr. Javid has not publicly responded.
Birth tourism is not illegal in itself, but authorities may pursue cases if visitors are found to have misrepresented their purpose when applying for tourist visas. The issue has resurfaced periodically in law enforcement actions, particularly involving organized maternity networks. Lawmakers argue the industry has expanded in recent years, citing tens of thousands of annual births to women on temporary visas.
The renewed scrutiny highlights the increasingly charged political debate over immigration and birthright citizenship. While Chinese and Russian nationals have historically dominated the birth tourism market, the controversy now also touches Indian-origin professionals and families, reflecting broader tensions over immigration policy and national identity in the United States.
