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Trump announces termination of birth citizenship rights for children of illegal immigrants or temporary visa holders

Content: On January 20, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order stipulating that children born in the United States to illegal immigrants or holders of temporary visas will no longer automatically gain US citizenship. Specifically, the following two categories of individuals will no longer be entitled to automatic US citizenship privileges:

Individuals whose mothers are illegally residing in the US, and whose fathers are not US citizens or lawful permanent residents at the time of their birth.
Individuals whose mothers are legally residing in the US on a temporary basis (e.g., through a visa waiver program or holding student, work, or tourist visas), and whose fathers are not US citizens or lawful permanent residents at the time of their birth.

Effective Date: The executive order will take effect 30 days after its issuance and apply to individuals born in the US at that time.

Impact of the Order

Impact on Immigrant Communities: For families planning to travel to the US to give birth in order to secure US citizenship for their children, this policy will thwart their plans. Additionally, the policy may cause concern among illegal immigrants and holders of temporary visas about the future of themselves and their children, potentially leading to instability.

Impact on US Society: On one hand, the policy may reduce future population growth and labor supply in the US, impacting industries that rely heavily on immigrant labor, such as construction and agriculture. On the other hand, some argue that the policy will help alleviate the strain on US public resources caused by illegal immigration and maintain law and order in the country.

Impact on International Relations: As the largest immigrant-receiving country in the world, changes in US immigration policy can draw international attention. Some countries may express concern over the policy adjustments, believing that they could affect relations with the US and potentially lead to disputes or conflicts.

Advice for Families Planning to Travel to the US to Give Birth

Plan Travel to the US Reasonably: Given the impact of the policy, families planning to travel to the US to give birth should make decisions as soon as possible. If they still decide to proceed, they should expedite visa applications and plan their stay in the US in advance to ensure the birth takes place before the policy takes effect.

Seek Professional Consultation: Given the complexity and variability of immigration policies, it is advisable to consult immigration lawyers or advisors for the latest policy information and personalized advice. They can provide detailed guidance on visa applications and entry reviews based on the family’s specific situation, helping to mitigate risks.

Consider Alternative Options: If it is not possible to give birth in the US before the policy takes effect, families should consider other ways for their children to obtain US or developed country citizenship, or choose alternative destinations for childbirth.

Other Ways for Children to Obtain US or Developed Country Citizenship

Investment Immigration: Some countries grant citizenship through investment, such as Turkey, Dominica, and Grenada. Typically, investors must be at least 18 years old, have no criminal record or pending lawsuits, and be able to verify the legitimacy of their income. The investment amount usually starts at $100,000, and the entire process typically takes 2 to 8 months.

Marriage Immigration: If a US citizen marries a citizen of another country, the spouse may obtain a second citizenship. However, not all countries allow this, and it depends on the laws and policies of the respective country.

Naturalization: Becoming a citizen through naturalization is another way to obtain citizenship in another country. However, applicants are usually required to reside in the country for a certain period, demonstrate sufficient language proficiency for daily life, and pass an exam on the country’s history and culture.

Jus Sanguinis (Right of Blood): In addition to jus soli (right of soil), the US also recognizes jus sanguinis (right of blood). This allows children born abroad to US citizens to inherit citizenship, but the process has specific requirements according to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), such as a minimum residency period in the US for at least one parent before the child’s birth.

Other Countries Recognizing Jus Soli: Apart from the US, other countries such as Canada, Brazil, and Argentina also follow the jus soli principle, granting citizenship to all individuals born on their territory.