Understanding the New Immigrant Registration Requirement

On February 25, the Trump administration announced that it will require all immigrants who did not enter the country with a visa, to register with the federal government and carry proof of their registration. 

Due to this newly enforced law, the Trump administration can use the threat of criminal prosecution against those who do not follow the recent enactment.  

The registration requirement will force many people in the United States—including those who entered without inspection and have had no contact with the federal government during their years living in American communities—to make a choice between two options that both carry serious risk. Those who have been in contact with the federal government and are “registered” will face a risk of another type of prosecution—if they fail to always carry registration papers with them. 

 

Two major impacts: 

  1. Who is affected? Many immigrants are already considered registered, including those with work permits or in deportation proceedings. But those who entered without inspection and have had no contact with the government could now be at risk. 

  1. The risk of enforcement. If an immigrant submits a registration form, they could be targeted for deportation. If they do not, they might face criminal charges. The policy also raises concerns that all registered immigrants—regardless of legal status—could be penalized for not always carrying proof of registration. 

We highly recommend speaking with an immigration attorney before making any decision about registering, as it may carry serious legal consequences.