The State Department says it has uncovered illegal birth tourism schemes in West Africa, North Africa, and Europe and revoked visas as a result.

"A U.S. embassy in West Africa uncovered a sophisticated birth tourism network of more than 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and visa 'fixers' to get themselves visas in order to get U.S. citizenship for their children," the agency said in a post on X Wednesday.

In Europe, it said a U.S. embassy identified "more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases since 2024."

"Investigators traced them to at least six companies that coached applicants on what to say in their visa interview, arranged U.S. housing, and set up delivery plans," the agency added.

It further indicated that one U.S. embassy in North Africa "revoked over 100 visas for 'birth tourist' parents who came to the United States primarily to give birth so their children would get U.S. citizenship."

Birth tourism is the practice of traveling to a foreign country with birthright citizenship for the primary purpose of giving birth, ensuring the child acquires that nation's citizenship.

The United States remains a primary destination, often driven by the desire to secure a "backup plan" and better opportunities for the child.

In a statement, the agency condemned the schemes.

A U.S. visa "is a privilege, not a right," it said.

"The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system," the post added.

Another post to X read, "Under President Trump, the State Department is defending the integrity of U.S. citizenship by ending illegal birth tourism schemes."

"No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring U.S. citizenship for a child by giving birth in the U.S.," it stated.