ABSTRACT
In this chapter we describe migrants with insecure immigration status as ‘undocumented.’ Undocumented migrants are among the most excluded and vulnerable people in European countries, usually having no right to work or to claim benefits. They therefore mainly live at the margins of society. Undocumented migrant women are especially vulnerable. This overview of access to maternity care for undocumented women in Europe shows that maternity services are not exempt from monetary charges in over half the countries reviewed, and that access to cost-free care can be linked to immigration controls in some countries. Barriers to maternity care put the health of vulnerable women and babies at risk by preventing services addressing pressing medical and social needs.
