Washington: In a move that has raised significant concerns within immigrant communities across the United States, the White House has announced that all foreign nationals residing in the country for more than 30 days must register with the federal government, or face strict penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the directive, emphasizing that failure to comply would result in criminal charges. "All foreign nationals present in the United States longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply with this is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both," she stated. She further warned, "If not, you will be arrested, fined, deported, never to return to our country again."
The registration requirement, which applies to both visa holders and legal permanent residents, was introduced under the Alien Registration Act, a law dating back to World War II. The measure, which had faced legal challenges from advocacy groups, was allowed to proceed after U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, ruled that the plaintiffs lacked standing to block its enforcement. This ruling cleared the way for the controversial regulation to take effect.
Under the new rules, foreign nationals must carry proof of registration at all times. This includes individuals who have been in the country for over 30 days, as well as newly arrived foreign nationals who must register within a month of their entry, unless they have valid documentation. The Department of Homeland Security clarified that individuals entering the U.S. after April 11 must also register within 30 days. Children turning 14 are required to re-register and provide fingerprints, regardless of prior registration status.
Leavitt, who also serves as an assistant to former President Donald Trump, emphasized that this directive is focused on national security and law enforcement. "The Trump administration will continue to enforce our nation's immigration laws. We will not pick and choose which laws to enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and the security of our homeland and for all American citizens," she said.
Penalties for failing to comply with the registration requirement include fines up to $5,000, up to 30 days in prison, and deportation, followed by a permanent ban from re-entering the U.S. The registration deadline was set for April 11, with immediate legal consequences for non-compliance.
The announcement has sparked widespread concern, particularly among undocumented immigrants, temporary visa holders, and mixed-status families, who fear that the policy could lead to sweeping enforcement actions and increased scrutiny.
With IANS inputs