The United States government has launched an investigation into Dr Athiya Javid, a physician based in San Jose, California, over allegations that she has been actively promoting birth tourism. The probe is being led by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, with Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Representative Brandon Gill (R-Texas) spearheading the inquiry.
Allegations and Entities Involved
The committee alleges that Dr Javid, along with three other entities, has been advertising birth tourism services on their websites. The entities named in the investigation include Doctores Para Ti, Have My Baby in Miami, International Maternity Services, and Dr Athhiya Javid herself. Letters have been sent to these organizations requesting relevant documents.
Background of Dr Javid
Dr Athiya Javid completed her medical education in Hyderabad, India, before practicing in the United States. She is now under scrutiny for her alleged involvement in the birth tourism industry.
Concerns Over National Security and Election Integrity
The committee's letter stated: "The benefits of US citizenship are a unique privilege. However, as foreign expectant mothers traveling for this purpose come predominantly from China and Russia, there are concerns that the birth tourism industry is giving rise to potential national security and election integrity threats posed by adversarial nations that challenge US interests." It further noted that while it is not inherently illegal for a foreign traveler to give birth in the US, willful misrepresentation of one's intentions to enter the country on a temporary visitor visa constitutes fraud.
Executive Order and Legal Challenges
In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order limiting birthright citizenship. The order sought to restrict eligibility for citizenship of children born in the United States to parents who are unlawfully present or lawfully present but only temporarily in the country, such as those visiting under the Visa Waiver Program or on a nonimmigrant visa. However, a federal court issued a preliminary injunction in July 2025, preventing the executive order from taking effect. The order remains enjoined pending a final ruling by the US Supreme Court.
Details of Allegations Against Dr Javid
The committee alleges that Dr Javid's website suggests her firm is engaged in birth tourism. According to the letter, "While specific pricing for maternity packages is not publicly listed, interested clients must contact the firm directly through its online portal or by phone or email to obtain personalized trip planning options, price quotes, and information on additional fees – including registration costs, extended hospital stays, and medical tests and exams." Beyond prenatal and postpartum care, the firm offers foreign expectant mothers a broader suite of services, including logistics support, temporary housing assistance, and legal consultations, provided either directly or through affiliated third-party providers.
Implications and Next Steps
The investigation underscores the ongoing scrutiny of birth tourism practices in the US, particularly in light of national security and immigration policy debates. The committee is seeking documents to determine whether Dr Javid and the associated entities have violated federal laws. The outcome of this probe could have significant implications for the birth tourism industry and related legal frameworks.
