U.S. Embassy cautions against ‘birth tourism,’ unauthorized work on visitor visas
Desk Report
| Published: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Photo: Collage
The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka on Wednesday reiterated restrictions on activities permitted under B1/B2 visitor visas, warning travelers against engaging in unauthorized practices while in the United States.
In a notice shared on its official Facebook page, the embassy said that individuals traveling on B1/B2 visas are not allowed to participate in “birth tourism,” defined as traveling primarily to give birth in the United States to secure citizenship for a child.
The embassy also emphasized that visa holders are prohibited from undertaking any work that involves payment from a U.S.-based employer or business.
Additionally, the notice clarified that visitors are not permitted to enroll in academic programs leading to a degree or earning institutional credit.
Paid performances are also listed among activities not allowed under the B1/B2 visa category, the embassy added.
The advisory is a component of the United States' ongoing initiatives. The authorities are responsible for informing foreign nationals about the visa compliance requirements and preventing the misuse of visitor visas.