Chile tightens control over 'birth tourism': citizenship revoked for children of Russian families

Authorities in Chile are launching a large-scale campaign to review and revoke the citizenship of minors born in the country to Russian citizens who held only transit status at the time of birth. According to an investigation by the Chilean publication CIPER Chile, the data of 62 children has already been erased.

The issue is rooted in Chile's constitutional law, which states that children of foreigners staying in the country only temporarily or in transit do not automatically acquire Chilean citizenship. Institutions are checking whether the parents had a real intention to settle in the country or used the birth merely as a tool to acquire a passport.

The investigation reveals the existence of specialized agencies, such as "Chile Kids" and "Chile'dren", which offer "birth tourism" packages at prices between $13,000 and $15,000 (excluding hospital costs). These services promise Russian families an easy path to Chilean citizenship through the birth of a child.

The situation is tense, as at least seven families have already filed lawsuits against the state. While one court in Valparaíso ruled in favor of parents who proved their intention to reside, the final decision on the case awaits the Supreme Court of Chile.

What does this mean for the international environment?
Chile's actions follow the model of Argentina, which also tightened its immigration rules to stop the mass influx of pregnant Russian citizens seeking easier access to the EU or other countries through a "strong passport". This is part of a broader trend of countries limiting the use of birth as a migration strategy, especially following changes in the geopolitical landscape.

The Russian Embassy in Chile states that it is monitoring the situation, while simultaneously urging parents not to rely on advertising promises and to check local legislation in advance.