US launches public portal to report visa fraud, targets birth tourism

The US Department of State launched an online portal on September 23, 2026, where anyone can report suspected visa fraud or misuse anonymously. The form collects details that may trigger law enforcement investigations and can be shared with various agencies. On the same day, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new restrictions targeting commercial birth tourism—arranging travel to the US primarily to give birth and secure citizenship for a child—stating that such travel is not a valid basis for a visitor visa.

Additionally, starting October 1, the State Department will extend online presence reviews to applicants for I visas (foreign media), TN and TD visas (USMCA professionals) and their dependents, requiring them to set social media profiles to public or open for screening. This review already applies to F, M, J student visas, H-1B temporary workers, and several diplomatic, religious and family categories. The move is part of broader Trump-era visa screening expansions, which already warn that high-profile Nigerians implicated in corruption could face lifetime visa bans.

For Nigerians planning to travel to the US, the portal means that any suspicious activity—fake documents, misrepresented purpose, or undisclosed ties—can be reported by anyone and may lead to investigations. Applicants for I, TN or TD visas must ensure their social media is accessible; those in other categories should expect similar scrutiny. Providing truthful information and clean records remains essential to avoid denial or a ban.

Will you double-check your documents and social media settings before applying, or risk a visa refusal that could affect your travel, work or study plans?

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/09/24/us-launches-portal-to-report-visa-fraud/