US suspends visa-free travel for Chinese citizens to Northern Mariana Islands

The US Department of Homeland Security has suspended a program that allowed Chinese citizens to visit the Northern Mariana Islands, a US territory in the Pacific, without a visa. The department cited espionage risks and the spread of "birth tourism." The suspension takes effect on 30 October at 2:00 p.m. US Eastern time, Fox News reported.

The decision was made by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. It reverses rules introduced under the Joe Biden administration, which allowed Chinese citizens, after prior screening, to stay on the islands for up to 14 days without a visa.

Why the program was halted

The department says the program facilitates not only "birth tourism" but also spying near American military facilities. There is also a risk of Chinese nationals being illegally moved to neighboring Guam, home to key US military bases. The ministry said visa-free travel and simplified screening under the program could lower barriers to such practices.

"Birth tourism" refers to foreigners traveling to the United States specifically to give birth so that the child obtains US citizenship. Some travelers conceal the true purpose of their trip in visa applications. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said officials are working with international partners and law enforcement to identify birth tourism networks. According to him, organizers help visitors hide the purpose of the trip and instruct them on how to avoid paying medical bills.

What the restriction means

The suspension applies to new applicants and to travelers who have already received authorization. Those currently on the islands may complete their stay, but will need a visa for future visits. The restrictions will remain in force until the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department and the Interior Department complete a joint evaluation of the program.

Background

The department developed the program, called EVS-TAP (Economic Viability and Security Travel Authorization Program), in 2024, and it formally took effect in early 2025. According to US Customs and Border Protection, more than 3,000 Chinese citizens used it in fiscal year 2025 alone. On 12 August 2026, the State Department created a task force to combat birth tourism. In its first month, it revoked more than 750 visas linked to suspected abuses of this kind.