Immigration Announcement
Birth Tourism in Canada Surges as U.S. Citizenship Rules Face Uncertainty
Birth tourism is once again making headlines, with a surge in interest from expectant mothers seeking Canadian citizenship for their newborns. Recent policy changes in the United States, particularly efforts to end birthright citizenship, have pushed many families to explore alternatives. Canada, one of the few countries offering citizenship by birth, is emerging as a preferred destination.
Immigration experts and birth tourism operators in British Columbia confirm that inquiries have spiked following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order aiming to revoke automatic citizenship for babies born on American soil. While this order faces legal challenges, the uncertainty is prompting many to reconsider their plans and turn to Canada instead.
Why Canada is Attracting Birth Tourists
Canada’s stable immigration policies, high-quality healthcare system, and strong social benefits make it an appealing choice for foreign parents. Key reasons include:
- Automatic Citizenship: Babies born in Canada automatically receive citizenship, regardless of their parents’ status.
- World-Class Education: Many parents view Canadian citizenship as a gateway to affordable, high-quality education.
- Safe and Inclusive Society: Canada is known for its safety, diversity, and welcoming environment.
Social media platforms in China, such as Xiaohongshu (RedNote), are buzzing with discussions on whether to shift birth plans from the U.S. to Canada. Many expectant mothers are making urgent inquiries, fearing potential restrictions in the future.
The Cost of Birth Tourism in Canada
Birth tourism comes with a hefty price tag. Services provided by agencies include:
| Service | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
| Medical expenses | $13,000+ |
| Housing & accommodations | $30,000–$50,000 |
| Postpartum care | $10,000–$20,000 |
| Full package (luxury) | $80,000–$100,000 |
Operators in British Columbia note that many clients are willing to pay the premium cost for peace of mind. While critics argue that birth tourism puts pressure on hospitals, industry professionals claim these mothers pay out of pocket and do not burden Canada’s healthcare system.
Birth Tourism Trends in Canada
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily slowed birth tourism due to travel restrictions, but the industry is rebounding. Reports indicate a 46% increase in births to non-residents last year, nearing pre-pandemic levels.
While birth tourism accounts for only a small fraction of total births in Canada, certain regions experience higher demand. Richmond, B.C., previously considered a birth tourism hotspot, saw nearly 23% of births from non-resident parents in 2018. The number has since declined but remains significant.
Controversy and Future Policy Changes
The rise in birth tourism sparks debates over fairness and potential policy reforms. Critics argue that parents are exploiting Canada’s system without contributing to society. Some experts suggest introducing stricter regulations, as seen in Australia and New Zealand, where at least one parent must be a citizen or permanent resident for a child to gain birthright citizenship.
Despite the controversy, many families see birth tourism as an investment in their children’s future. With uncertainty surrounding U.S. policies, Canada remains a top choice for those seeking a stable and secure path to citizenship. The growing demand for birth tourism in Canada highlights its global appeal as a safe and desirable destination.
With birthright citizenship policies under threat in the U.S., more families are shifting their focus to Canada. Whether the Canadian government will introduce new regulations remains to be seen, but for now, the trend continues to rise.
