Indian-origin doctor under probe for 'birth tourism' in San Jose: 'Foreign expectant mothers get extra service'

Dr Athiya Javid of San Jose has come under a government investigation over allegations of encouraging birth tourism. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Representative Brandon Gill (R-Texas) alleged that Dr Javid, and with three other entities, have been advertising for birth tourism on their websites. Doctores Para Ti, Have My Baby in Miami, International Maternity Services, and Dr Athhiya Javid have been sent letters asking for documents. Dr Athhiya Javid studied medical in Hyderabad, India.

"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," the letter said, adding that it is not inherently illegal for a foreign traveler to give birth in the US, but wilful misrepresentation of one's intentions to enter the country on a temporary visitor visa is a fraud.




"In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order limiting birthright citizenship by restricting eligibility for citizenship of children born in the United States to parents who are unlawfully present in the United States or lawfully present but only temporarily in the country at the time of birth such as an alien visiting under the Visa Waiver Program or on a nonimmigrant visa. A federal court issued a preliminary injunction in July 2025 preventing the executive order from taking effect, and it remains enjoined pending a final ruling by the US Supreme Court," the letter said.

Against Dr Javid, the allegations are that her website suggests that the firm is engaged in birth tourism. "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," it said.