The Trump administration has announced a new policy requiring immigrants who did not enter the U.S. with a visa to register with the federal government by providing home addresses and submitting fingerprints. This new policy could lead to serious consequences for many individuals.

What You Need to Know:

• Immigrants who already have certain immigration documents (like work permits, green cards, or pending deportation cases) are considered “registered.”

• Non-citizens, who are 14 years or older, who entered without inspection and have had no interaction with immigration authorities are required to register.

• Failure to register or carry proof of registration could result in criminal charges, fines up to $5,000, or imprisonment for up to 6 months. 

Who Would NOT Be Required to Register?

Anyone who has been issued one of the following documents and who has been fingerprinted by the federal government is considered “registered” under the law and will not need to submit new registration. 

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)

• Those paroled into the United States under INA 212(d)(5), even if the period of parole has expired

• Those admitted to the United States as nonimmigrants who were issued Form I-94, even if the period of admission has expired

• Those issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas prior to arrival

• Those currently in removal proceedings in immigration court

• Those issued an employment authorization document (EAD or work permit)

• Those who have applied for lawful permanent residence even if their applications were denied

• Those issued Border Crossing Cards

• People who have been granted permission to depart without the initiation of deportation proceedings

NOTE that even if you are not required to register, you will still need to carry proof of your documentation with you to avoid criminal charges.

Who Would Be Required to Register?

• Anyone who has not been issued one of the documents listed above;

• Those present in the United States without inspection and admission or parole;

• Canadian visitors who entered the United States at land ports of entry and were not issued evidence of registration;

• Those who applied for other immigration benefits, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), who have not been fingerprinted, issued an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or whose applications have not been approved.

How to Register?

The government has not yet announced a process for registration, but it is expected to be announced in the near future.

What Does This Mean If You Are Required to Register

Immigrants who do register will risk being placed in removal proceedings. On the other hand, those who do not register could face criminal prosecution, including fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to 6 months. 

Even those who are already registered—including those with legal status—may be arrested and prosecuted for failing to carry registration proof with them.

It appears that the main purpose of the new registration requirement is to instill fear among the immigrant population to pressure them into self-deportation. Immigrant communities across the country are already experiencing heightened anxiety due to the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement. The new registration requirement is likely to deepen these fears and add to the uncertainty many individuals and families are already facing.

Given the risks involved, it is crucial for immigrants to consult with an immigration attorney to understand their options and rights under the new policy. If you or someone you know may be affected, seek legal advice immediately to protect your rights and stay informed.

At Lear Immigration Law, PC, we are committed to helping you navigate immigration challenges. Contact us today to discuss your options and protect your rights. Together, we'll get through this, one step at a time.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified immigration attorney.