DHS suspends visa-free travel program for Chinese nationals amid birth tourism, security concerns

DHS is suspending a visa-free travel program for Chinese visitors to the Northern Mariana Islands, citing potential birth-tourism and security risks. The suspension applies from October 30 while federal agencies review the program.

• The program allowed prescreened Chinese nationals to visit the Northern Mariana Islands for up to 14 days without a visa; more than 3,000 used it in fiscal year 2025.· 2 sources
• DHS cited concerns including birth tourism, espionage, pressure on local medical services and illegal onward travel to Guam.· 2 sources
• The suspension is scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT on October 30; people already in the territory may complete authorized stays but need a visa for future visits unless another exception applies.· 2 sources