Birthright Citizenship Deadline Sparks Panic Among Indian Expectant Parents in the US

As President Donald Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship approaches its February 20 deadline, many Indian parents-to-be in the United States are resorting to preterm deliveries to ensure their children are granted US citizenship. Babies born to non-permanent residents after the deadline will no longer automatically qualify for citizenship—a dramatic shift in US immigration policy.

A Race Against Time

Numerous expectant Indian parents, particularly those on temporary visas such as H-1B, are opting for early Cesarean sections in their eighth or ninth month of pregnancy to deliver before the cut-off date. Some women are even seeking to schedule preterm births weeks before their due dates.

Dr. SD Rama, who runs a maternity clinic in New Jersey, has seen a surge in such requests. “A couple came to me with a seven-month pregnant woman asking to schedule an early delivery, even though her due date is in March,” she said, highlighting the urgency felt by many families.

Birthright citizenship, a cornerstone of US law, grants citizenship to all children born on American soil regardless of their parents’ immigration status. With this principle under threat, parents see the approaching deadline as a race against time.

A Risky Decision

While some families feel they have no other option, medical professionals are cautioning against the dangers of premature births. Dr. SG Mukkala, an obstetrician based in Texas, warned about potential complications, including underdeveloped lungs, low birth weight, feeding difficulties, and long-term neurological challenges.

“In the last 48 hours, I’ve spoken to over 15 couples trying to dissuade them from this decision,” Dr. Mukkala stated. “While it’s understandable to want the best for your child, preterm deliveries carry serious risks for both the baby and the mother.”

Immigration Challenges Amplified

The end of automatic birthright citizenship is part of a broader wave of restrictive immigration policies under Trump’s administration. Indian families, many of whom are in the United States on temporary work visas, are among the hardest hit.

The delay in green card processing—exceeding decades for some categories—has made birthright citizenship a lifeline for immigrant families. A 28-year-old finance professional, currently on an H-1B visa, expressed his frustration: “We’ve made countless sacrifices to build our lives here. Now, it feels like the door is being slammed shut.”

A Turning Point in US Immigration Policy

The repeal of birthright citizenship marks a seismic shift in the immigration landscape, with ripple effects likely to impact millions. For Indian families grappling with the uncertainty, the choice between a safe delivery and securing their child’s future has become a heart-wrenching dilemma.

As the February 20 deadline looms, the story of these families underscores the human cost of policy changes that redefine the American Dream.