🚨 The immigration landscape is shifting again, and if you’re an immigrant in the U.S., you need to know about the latest registration requirement. What does it mean for you? Is it something to worry about? We’re breaking it all down in plain English so you can make the best decision for yourself and your future.

And remember—here at Eagan Immigration, we don’t just keep you informed, we fight for you. We offer complimentary case evaluations, so if you need legal guidance, give us a call at 202-709-6439 or book online today!

What is the New Registration Requirement Under the ‘Protecting American People Against Invasion’ Executive Order?

What’s Happening?

On January 20, 2025, a new executive order directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce a long-standing law requiring certain immigrants to register with the government. This law has technically existed for decades, but it’s now being actively implemented.

Who Needs to Register?

If you fall into any of these categories, you might be required to register:

• You’re 14 or older and weren’t registered when applying for a visa and have stayed in the U.S. for over 30 days.
• You’re a parent or guardian of a foreign national under 14 who wasn’t registered and has been in the U.S. for over 30 days.
• You turned 14 while in the U.S. and need to register within 30 days of your birthday.

Who’s Exempt?

You don’t need to register if you:

• Are a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR)
• Have a valid work permit (EAD)
• Have filed for adjustment of status (I-485, I-687, etc.)
• Are already in removal proceedings
• Are a Canadian visitor who entered legally

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Registering?

⚠️ If You Register:

• Your information is on file with the U.S. government.
• It might make it easier for immigration authorities to track your status.

🚨 If You Don’t Register:

• You could face civil or criminal penalties (though enforcement remains unclear).
• The government might use non-registration as a reason to deny future applications.

More details on how to register are coming soon—this will likely be done through a USCIS online account.

2. What Happens if My VAWA, T Visa, or U Visa Case Is Denied? Am I At Risk for Deportation?

The Facts You Need to Know

🚨 USCIS issued a new policy memo on February 28, 2025, outlining when a Notice to Appear (NTA) should be issued after a case denial.

An NTA is the first step in starting deportation proceedings, but here’s what people don’t realize—just because you get an NTA doesn’t mean you’re automatically in removal proceedings.

Who’s Affected?

✅ All case types are included, even VAWA, T Visa, and U Visa applicants. But confidentiality laws still protect these applicants under 8 USC 1367(a)(1).

🚨 If you have a criminal history, your case may be referred to ICE, but this does not mean automatic deportation—ICE would still need to take action.

⚖️ USCIS is being told to add fraud/misrepresentation charges more often—but don’t panic. This is not new, and if you’ve been truthful in your application, you shouldn’t worry.

Here’s the Catch:

📌 An NTA must be filed with the immigration court to actually start deportation proceedings. 📉 In 2018, a similar memo was issued, and there wasn’t a huge spike in NTAs. ⏳ Appealing a denial pauses any deportation action. The appeal process takes years—by the time your case is decided, policies may have changed again.

What Does This Mean for You?

⚠️ This memo is designed to intimidate applicants. It does NOT mean you’ll be immediately deported. 🚫 Just because you receive an NTA doesn’t mean you’re in removal proceedings. ⏳ Processing times for VAWA, U, and T visas take years. By the time your case is decided, the laws and policies may have shifted again.

🙌 At Eagan Immigration, we don’t back down. We fight for you every step of the way and will not be intimidated.

3. What Should I Do If I’m Afraid My Case Will Be Denied?

You’re not alone. Many immigrants feel uncertain about their future under shifting policies. But fear shouldn’t stop you from applying. Here’s what you need to know:

💡 If you haven’t filed your case yet:

• Don’t delay. The sooner you apply, the better.
• Our attorneys carefully review every case before filing to ensure eligibility.

💡 If your case is already filed:

• We will fight for you no matter what changes come.
• We’re constantly watching policy shifts and will adjust our legal strategy to protect our clients.
• If your case is denied, we’re prepared to appeal and explore alternative options.

Stay Informed, Stay Protected

Immigration laws can be confusing and intimidating, but knowledge is power. Whether you’re facing registration requirements or concerned about NTAs, the best thing you can do is get the right legal advice.

At Eagan Immigration, we fight for immigrants every day. No matter what new policies come, we’re here to protect your rights, defend your case, and explore every possible legal option.

📞 Don’t wait—get clarity and confidence about your immigration status today. Call us at 202-709-6439 for a complimentary case evaluation.