Key facts
- US suspends visa-free travel for Chinese nationals to Northern Mariana Islands.
- Program cited for facilitating birth tourism and national security risks.
- Suspension takes effect Oct. 30.
- Over 3,000 Chinese nationals used the program in fiscal year 2025.
The US has suspended a visa-free travel program for Chinese nationals visiting the Northern Mariana Islands, citing concerns over birth tourism and national security risks. The Department of Homeland Security announced the suspension on Monday, stating the program could facilitate espionage and illegal onward travel to nearby Guam. The decision comes after Republican lawmakers urged the administration to end the program, warning it encouraged birth tourism and posed security risks. The program, created in 2024, allowed prescreened Chinese nationals to visit the islands for up to 14 days without a visa. Over 3,000 Chinese nationals used the program in fiscal year 2025. The suspension is set to take effect on Oct. 30.