A new directive under President Donald Trump’s executive order, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, came into effect. This rule mandates that all immigrants, including legal visa holders and green card holders, must carry proof of their immigration status at all times. The regulation is part of a broader push to enforce immigration laws and address the issue of illegal residency in the United States.
The legal roots of this directive trace back to the Alien Registration Act of 1940. Though the original legislation required non-citizens to register with the government, its implementation over the decades has been inconsistent. The recent rule change marks a renewed focus on strict compliance, turning what was once an overlooked policy into a central pillar of immigration enforcement.
All non-citizens aged 14 and above who intend to stay in the US for 30 days or more are now required to register using Form G-325R. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for registering minors under the age of 14.
Those arriving in the United States on or after 11 April must complete their registration within 30 days of arrival. Failing to do so may result in legal penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
Any change in residential address must be reported within 10 days. Failure to comply with this provision can result in a fine of up to $5,000.
Children who are already in the country and turn 14 must re-register and provide biometric details, including fingerprints, within 30 days of their birthday.
This policy most significantly impacts undocumented immigrants, who will be required to formally register and carry proof of identity and legal status.
Holders of valid work or student visas, such as those on H-1B or F-1 visas, and green card holders are already considered registered. However, they are now required to carry valid documentation with them at all times.
Indian nationals form a significant portion of the US immigrant population, with an estimated 5.4 million individuals residing in the country. Among them, approximately 220,000 are undocumented. Indian citizens on H-1B visas or studying in US institutions are not required to register again, but they must adhere to the new requirement of always carrying legal identification.
Non-compliance with the registration mandate can lead to fines or imprisonment for up to six months, depending on the severity and frequency of violations.
It is important to note that registration does not guarantee permission to remain in the United States. Individuals who cannot provide valid documentation or who are found to be in violation of immigration laws may face deportation proceedings.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under the direction of Secretary Kristi Noem, has been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement of the rule. The administration has made it clear that there will be “no sanctuary for noncompliance”, emphasising the priority given to this measure in the broader context of immigration control.
The implementation of the new rule underscores a shift towards more stringent immigration policies in the United States. While the rule formalises requirements that have existed on paper for decades, its renewed enforcement could have wide-ranging implications for all non-citizens residing in the country—regardless of their legal status.
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Published on: Apr 15, 2025, 4:05 PM IST
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