Foreign nationals, visa holders, and legal residents without valid documents now required to submit fingerprints and proof of address under stringent federal rules.
By INVC News Desk
[Published on: April 13, 2025]
Washington DC | INVC News
In a significant development set to impact millions of non-citizens, the United States has announced mandatory registration for all foreign nationals residing in the country for more than 30 days. According to the newly enforced federal rule, non-compliance could result in fines, imprisonment, or even extradition, with violators potentially barred from future entry into the country.
The directive will apply not only to tourists and visa holders but also to legal permanent residents who are unable to furnish valid immigration documents.
‘Registration Critical for National Security,’ Says White House
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt, while addressing the media, stated that the move is part of broader national security and law enforcement measures.
“Every foreign national staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days is now required to register with the federal government. Those who fail to do so will be subject to arrest, fines, and permanent deportation,” she asserted.
Levitt further revealed that a federal judge had earlier cleared the Trump administration to enforce this registration requirement, underlining the administration’s longstanding immigration and security priorities.
Homeland Security Department Launches Registration Drive
Following the White House directive, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a formal press release urging immediate compliance with the rule. The deadline for completing the registration is April 11, after which strict action may be taken against violators.
Registrants must submit fingerprints, proof of identity, and current address. For minors under 14 years, parents or legal guardians are responsible for completing the registration process.
The DHS had earlier notified on February 25 that undocumented individuals failing to report themselves could face prosecution and heavy fines.
Civil Rights Groups Slam the Move
Several civil liberties organizations and advocacy groups have condemned the move, calling it a targeted crackdown on immigrant communities.
Opponents argue that the rule disproportionately affects people who are gainfully employed, paying taxes, and maintaining families in the U.S.
“This policy undermines American values and unfairly penalizes law-abiding residents with deep ties to the community,” said an immigration advocacy group in a statement.
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Final Word
While the U.S. government defends the new registration policy as a necessary step for national security, the widespread opposition signals a brewing legal and political battle over immigration enforcement.
Foreign nationals currently in the U.S. are strongly advised to check their residency status and register with authorities before the stipulated deadline to avoid legal repercussions.
