The United States has introduced a new policy requiring all foreign nationals to register with immigration authorities. The 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 not been strictly implemented in the past.
Policy implementation and consequences
The new regulation takes effect on 25 February 2025. Foreign nationals who have not yet registered with the U.S. government must comply immediately to avoid penalties. Non-compliance may result in legal consequences, including fines or prosecution.
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Registration serves to record an individual’s presence in the U.S. and ensure compliance with immigration laws. The process will be conducted through an online portal managed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Who must register?
Foreign nationals aged 14 and older who meet specific criteria under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) must complete the registration. These 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 have remained in the U.S. beyond 30 days.
- Individuals who turn 14, who must re-register within 30 days of their birthday.
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Who is exempt?
Certain foreign nationals who have completed registration through existing immigration processes do not need to take further action. These include:
- Green Card holders (Lawful Permanent Residents).
- Visa holders who received an I-94 form or employment authorisation document.
- Individuals who applied for U.S. residency, even if their application was denied.
- Those currently involved in removal proceedings.
Foreign nationals required to register
Foreign nationals who must complete their registration before 25 February 2025 to avoid penalties include:
- 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 provided with official registration proof.
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Registration process
DHS will introduce an online registration system in the coming weeks. Foreign nationals required to register must create a USCIS online account and follow the instructions provided at the USCIS Alien Registration Portal. Timely completion of this process is necessary to avoid penalties.
Verification and compliance
Immigration experts advise foreign nationals to verify their registration status to ensure compliance with the new policy. Regular monitoring of official DHS and USCIS updates is recommended to stay informed of any changes.
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Legal and immigration implications
The new registration requirement does not grant legal status, work authorisation, or additional rights. However, failure to comply may result in serious legal consequences. Foreign nationals who do not register risk fines, prosecution, or other immigration penalties.
Individuals uncertain about their registration status should seek advice from an immigration attorney to understand their obligations under the new policy.
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