US Tightens Passport Issuance Requirements for Children

The US State Department has proposed requiring parents to provide documentation confirming their citizenship or immigration status when applying for a child’s passport.

This initiative is part of President Donald Trump's policy to limit birthright citizenship. According to a draft guidance reviewed by Reuters, the new regulation is linked to Trump’s executive order issued on August 6, aimed specifically against so-called "birth tourism," where women travel to the US to give birth and secure American citizenship for their child.

If the proposal is accepted, parents or legal guardians applying for a child’s passport must present evidence of their citizenship, such as a valid US passport or birth certificate. To verify immigration status, documents like the I-94 form or permanent resident card (green card) may be required. Based on this information, authorities will determine whether the child meets the requirements for citizenship.

Currently, when obtaining a passport for a child born in the US, parents must prove the parental relationship and provide an identification document with a photo. They also indicate whether they are US citizens, but there is no requirement to submit additional proof of citizenship.

Trump's previous attempt to limit birthright citizenship was deemed unconstitutional by the US Supreme Court. The new executive order may also be challenged and blocked in court.