New Immigration Policy: Mandatory Registration for All Non-Citizens

A significant shift is underway in the United States regarding immigration policy that is poised to affect millions of immigrants, including undocumented individuals and those in the country legally, such as holders of work, student, or travel visas. The Trump administration has rolled out a new directive under the Alien Registration Act, instituting a broad requirement that mandates non-citizens to have valid evidence of registration with them at all times.

The Directive Explained

This new policy, which took effect recently, dictates that all non-citizens aged 18 and over must carry documents proving their registration with federal authorities wherever they go. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has emphasized the seriousness of this rule, stating, "All non-citizens aged 18 and above are required to carry this documentation with them at all times." The administration’s hardline stance indicates that there will be no sanctuary for noncompliance.

Mandatory Registration and Fingerprinting

Under the revised requirement, immigrants aged 14 and older who remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with the DHS and provide fingerprints—unless they have already done so during their visa application process. For those who enter the country after April 11, there is a strict 30-day window for completing this registration. Should individuals fail to comply, they could face severe penalties, including fines up to $5,000, 30 days of imprisonment, or both.

Moreover, for minors under the age of 14, their parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring compliance. Once these minors reach the age of 14, they themselves must provide biometric information and re-register.

The Ongoing Need for Documentation

Once registration is complete, individuals aged 18 and older will receive proof of registration. This document is crucial; it must be carried at all times, as failing to present it during an official check can lead to serious ramifications such as fines, imprisonment, or even deportation.

Additionally, any change of address must be reported to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days. Not adhering to this requirement can also result in penalties similar to those for failing to carry registration documentation.

Who Qualifies as Registered?

The new law clarifies which individuals are considered compliant with the Alien Registration requirement:

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
• H-1B and F-1 Visa Holders with unexpired Form I-94
• Individuals with Work Authorization or Border Crossing Cards
• Those Paroled into the United States
• Individuals who received immigrant or nonimmigrant visas prior to admission
• Those currently in removal proceedings

However, undocumented individuals seeking to remain in the U.S. without valid visa documentation, or those who have yet to submit any benefit applications to USCIS, will be required to register anew.

Exemptions From Registration

Certain groups are exempt from this new rule. Specifically, members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas and American Indians born in Canada (pursuant to INA Section 289) are not required to adhere to the mandatory registration requirement.

Implications for Indian Nationals in the U.S.

For Indian nationals in America who are here legally—whether on a Green Card, work visa, or student visa—the new directive adds an additional layer of responsibility. Although they are considered registered under the law, they must ensure that they carry identification proof at all times.

The stakes are high: failing to comply with this documentation requirement can lead to significant legal trouble, including the potential for criminal prosecution and removal from the United States. The administration has adopted a stringent, zero-tolerance policy toward immigration compliance, meaning those holding visas or lawful immigration status must be vigilant.

Green Card holders, F-1 students, and H-1B professionals must stay informed and prepared, ensuring they never find themselves without proper documentation. The transformative nature of this policy indicates that the landscape for immigrants in the U.S. has shifted dramatically, and the onus now lies heavily on individuals to navigate this new reality.