Trump administration suspends visa-free visits by Chinese nationals to Northern Mariana Islands, citing concerns about birth tourism, espionage and travel to Guam

The Trump administration is suspending a visa-free travel program for Chinese nationals visiting the Northern Mariana Islands. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin made the decision after Republican lawmakers warned that the policy could facilitate birth tourism and pose national security risks. The Biden-era program let prescreened Chinese nationals visit the U.S. island territory for up to 14 days without a visa.

In a notice, the Department of Homeland Security said the program could enable birth tourism, espionage and illegal onward travel to nearby Guam, which it described as a key U.S. military hub. Senators Mike Lee, Rick Scott, John Cornyn and Bill Cassidy had urged Mullin in April to end the arrangement. Lee welcomed the decision, as did the press office for Rep. Chip Roy, which called the program a “dangerous loophole.”

The suspension takes effect at 2 p.m. EDT on October 30 and covers both new applicants and travelers who have already been approved. Those already in the territory under the program may complete their authorized stays, but will need a visa for future visits.

DHS said the suspension will remain in place while it evaluates the program with the secretaries of state and the interior.