A Houston-area “birth tourism” operation accused of helping foreign nationals secure U.S. citizenship for their children is now facing a lawsuit from the State of Texas.
In a petition filed in Fort Bend County, the Office of the Attorney General alleges that De’Ai Postpartum Care Center and its operators ran an unlawful scheme for nearly two decades, bringing Chinese nationals to Texas “for the sole purpose of birthing children and obtaining ‘birthright citizenship.’”
Announcing the lawsuit, Ken Paxton said, “America is for Americans, not foreigners trying to cheat the system to claim citizenship,” adding that the operation “facilitated an invasion of Texas” and involved efforts to shield violations of immigration law.
The filing claims the business has facilitated more than “1,000+” American-born births while marketing its services to Chinese clients through social media and private messaging platforms.
According to the state, the operation went beyond offering travel or housing assistance, instead coaching clients on how to misrepresent the purpose of their travel when applying for U.S. visas. The petition alleges women were advised to apply before becoming pregnant to avoid scrutiny from federal officials.
Investigators also allege the center provided detailed guidance on navigating immigration procedures and avoiding detection, including assisting with visa applications and required documentation.
Beyond immigration concerns, the lawsuit accuses the defendants of misleading clients about medical services. The center advertised “24-hour care” from experienced professionals, but the state says it found no evidence the operators were licensed through the Texas Board of Nursing or Texas Medical Board.
State attorneys allege the defendants violated multiple laws, including provisions related to tampering with governmental records, unlawful harboring, and deceptive trade practices. They also argue the operation constitutes a public nuisance tied to organized criminal activity.
The state is seeking a temporary and permanent injunction to shut down the operation, along with civil penalties, forfeiture of business rights, and attorneys’ fees.
The lawsuit comes as the national debate over birthright citizenship continues to intensify.
Earlier this month, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in Trump v. Barbara, a case challenging a January 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump that seeks to end automatic citizenship for certain children born in the United States.
That policy centers on a reinterpretation of the 14th Amendment’s “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” clause, arguing it should require parental domicile rather than mere presence in the country. The high court has not yet issued a decision.
When contacted by Texas Scorecard, a representative for the center appeared unaware of the lawsuit and did not provide further comment.
