RBI’s Proposes Regulatory Norms to Mitigate Rising NPAs in Gold Loans
What Immigrants Need to Know About the New Enforcement
In a significant move impacting immigrants across the United States, the Trump administration has begun strictly enforcing a longstanding but rarely implemented immigration registration rule. As of April 11, all foreign nationals residing in the US for over 30 days must register with the government and carry their immigration documents at all times—or face potential legal consequences.
What Is the Mandatory US Immigration Registration Rule?
According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), all foreign nationals aged 18 and older are required under INA 262 to carry evidence of their immigration registration at all times. Although this law has existed since the World War II era, it was seldom enforced—until now.
On April 11, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a statement reinforcing this rule, reminding all immigrants present in the US for over 30 days to register under the Alien Registration Act. Failure to comply could lead to fines, imprisonment, or both.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “President Trump and I have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream.”
Who Needs to Register Under This Rule?
The rule applies to:
- All foreign nationals in the US for over 30 days who have not yet registered or been fingerprinted.
- Parents or guardians must register children under 14 who remain in the country for more than 30 days.
- Once children turn 14, they must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday.
Already Registered Categories:
Many immigrants are already registered by default, including:
- Green Card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents)
- Individuals on valid work or student visas
- Aliens issued Form I-94 or I-94W
- Those in removal proceedings
- Applicants for permanent residency using approved forms
- Holders of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
Who Is Not Registered?
Some groups are not automatically registered, including:
- Undocumented immigrants who crossed the border illegally.
- Canadian visitors who weren’t issued registration papers.
- Applicants for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Action without official evidence of registration.
For these individuals, USCIS has introduced a new process and form: Form G-325R, Biometric Information (Registration). This allows unregistered aliens to comply with the law and avoid penalties.
Legal Battle and Court Ruling
Several nonprofit organizations, including CHIRLA and United Farmworkers of America, challenged the strict enforcement of the rule, arguing it was introduced without public notice and could harm vulnerable populations. However, on April 10, a federal judge dismissed the legal challenge, stating that the plaintiffs lacked the standing to sue.
What Does Immigration Registration Mean for Immigrants?
It’s crucial to understand that registration does not grant immigration status, employment authorization, or any legal rights under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). It is simply a compliance requirement that must be met by those residing in the country beyond 30 days.
Key Takeaway:
Immigrants in the US—whether legal or undocumented—must ensure they are registered and carry their immigration documentation at all times. Non-compliance can result in serious penalties, including jail time.
