The Trump administration has decided to reinstate an old World War II policy requiring certain immigrants to register under a new alien registration requirement. This measure affects three specific groups of people, and failure to comply could result in criminal penalties, fines, or even jail time.

Who Needs to Register?

1️⃣ Individuals who entered the U.S. illegally without inspection, admission, or parole
❌ They do not have fingerprints registered with immigration.
❌ They do not have a Green Card, visa, or work permit.
❌ They are not currently in deportation proceedings.
✅ They must complete an online form and submit their information.

2️⃣ Canadians who entered through a land border
❌ They have not applied for any immigration benefits such as a work permit or Green Card.
❌ They have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days and are over the age of 14.

3️⃣ DACA or TPS applicants without proof of registration
🔹 Includes those who applied for DACA between 2021 and 2022 and whose cases were stuck in litigation.
🔹 If they entered without inspection and do not have a work permit or any other active immigration process, they must register.

Who Has Already Registered?

Immigrants who have already completed their registration include:

✅ Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).
✅ Individuals paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), even if their parole period has expired.
✅ Nonimmigrants admitted to the U.S. who were issued a Form I-94 or I-94W (paper or electronic), even if their period of admission has expired.
✅ All noncitizens present in the U.S. who received an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa before arrival.
✅ Individuals placed in deportation proceedings by DHS.
✅ Individuals issued a work permit.
✅ Individuals who have applied for lawful permanent residence using Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700, even if their application was denied.
✅ Individuals issued a Border Crossing Card.

What Is the Real Purpose of This Policy?

This policy appears to be designed to encourage self-deportation. Since the Trump administration is struggling with the logistics of carrying out mass deportations (lack of detention space, limited resources, etc.), this measure pressures immigrants to turn themselves in voluntarily.

The registration requirement is mandatory for all individuals over the age of 14 who have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days. Additionally, they are required to carry proof of their registration at all times. In the case of minors, parents must ensure they are also registered.

📢 Attention! If you believe this policy affects you, consult with an immigration attorney before making any decisions. At Eagan Immigration, we offer free case evaluations. You can call us at 202-709-6439 to schedule an appointment or do so through this link.