The United States has implemented a new policy requiring all immigrants to register with immigration authorities to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
This directive, issued under the executive order Protecting the American People Against Invasion, mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce an existing federal law that has largely been overlooked.
Immigrants who fail to register could face legal consequences, including fines or prosecution.
According to TravelBiz, the policy takes effect on February 25, 2025. Foreign nationals who have yet to register with the U.S. government must do so immediately to avoid immigration-related penalties.
Registration serves as a means of tracking an individual’s presence in the U.S. and ensuring legal compliance.
Who Must Register?
The new policy applies to foreign nationals aged 14 and older who meet specific criteria outlined in Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Those required to register include:
• Individuals who were not registered or fingerprinted when applying for a U.S. visa.
• Foreign nationals who have stayed in the U.S. for more than 30 days.
• Parents or guardians of children under 14 who remain in the U.S. beyond 30 days.
• Individuals turning 14, who must re-register within 30 days of their birthday.
Exemptions from Registration
Certain foreign nationals who have already registered through existing immigration procedures do not need to take further action. Exemptions apply to:
• Green Card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents).
• Visa holders who have received an I-94 form or an employment authorization document.
• Individuals who applied for U.S. residency, even if their application was denied.
• Those currently undergoing removal proceedings.
Deadline for Registration
To avoid penalties, the following groups must complete their registration before February 25, 2025:
• Undocumented immigrants who entered the U.S. without official inspection.
• Canadian visitors who entered via land border crossings and did not receive registration documents.
• DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) applicants who were not issued official registration proof.
How to Register
DHS is set to launch an online registration platform in the coming weeks. Affected individuals will be required to create a USCIS online account and complete their registration through the USCIS Alien Registration Portal. Prompt registration is necessary to avoid legal repercussions.
Staying Compliant
Immigration experts advise all foreign nationals to verify their registration status to prevent potential legal complications. Individuals are encouraged to monitor official updates from DHS and USCIS for the latest information on the process.
