By Nashwa Azzam, Partner |
On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued the Protecting the American People Against Invasion Executive Order, directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure that aliens in the U.S. comply with the registration requirements under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This includes both civil and criminal penalties for failure to register.
Registration Requirements
Aliens aged 14 and older who have not previously registered or been fingerprinted when applying for a U.S. visa, and who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer, must now apply for registration and fingerprinting. Parents or guardians must ensure children under 14 are registered. Additionally, upon turning 14, previously registered minors must re-register and be fingerprinted within 30 days.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the registration requirements will result in both civil and criminal penalties, including fines and potential misdemeanor prosecution.
Who Must Register
All unregistered aliens who have been in the U.S. for 30 days or longer and meet the age requirement must apply for registration. The parents or guardians of minors who have not yet registered must submit an application for them. This registration does not confer any immigration status or employment authorization.
How to Register
USCIS is creating a new form and process for registration. Aliens are advised to create a USCIS online account to begin the registration process. Further instructions will be provided as the process is finalized.
For more details, stay updated on the USCIS website or reach out to us at KTA.
