US Mandates Registration for Foreign Nationals Under Alien Act or Risk Deportation
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Synopsis
In a major policy shift, the US government has mandated that all foreign nationals residing for over 30 days must register or risk severe penalties, including deportation. This directive, rooted in historical legislation, raises significant concerns among immigrant communities.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory registration for foreign nationals in the US for more than 30 days.
- Failure to comply may result in fines and imprisonment.
- Newly arrived foreign nationals must register within a month.
- Children turning 14 must re-register and provide fingerprints.
- Concerns about enforcement actions among immigrant communities.
Washington, April 12 (NationPress) In a significant move that has raised alarms within immigrant populations throughout the United States, the White House has declared that all foreign nationals who have been in the country for more than 30 days are required to register with the federal authorities or face severe repercussions, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.
"All foreign nationals in the United States for over 30 days must register with the federal government. Non-compliance is a crime that could result in fines, imprisonment, or both," stated White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
"Failure to do so will lead to your arrest, fines, deportation, and a permanent ban from our nation," she warned.
She noted that the deadline for registration under the Alien Registration Act was April 11 (local time).
This directive, stemming from the historic Alien Registration Act established during World War II, was approved following a ruling from US District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, appointed by Trump, who dismissed a legal challenge from advocacy organizations.
The judge concluded that the plaintiffs did not possess enough legal standing to prevent the implementation of the rule, thus allowing the contentious regulation to proceed.
According to the new rule, foreign nationals—including visa holders and legal permanent residents—are obligated to carry proof of registration at all times. This regulation impacts individuals who remain in the US for over 30 days and requires newly arrived foreign nationals to register within 30 days if they lack valid documentation.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified that individuals entering the US after April 11 must register within 30 days. Moreover, children who turn 14 must also re-register and submit fingerprints, irrespective of any previous registration.
Leavitt, who also acts as assistant to President Donald Trump, stressed that this initiative is centered around national security and law enforcement.
"The Trump administration is committed to upholding our nation's immigration laws. We will not selectively enforce laws. We need to know who is present in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all American citizens," she asserted.
Non-compliance penalties include fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to 30 days, alongside deportation proceedings and a permanent prohibition on re-entering the country.
The deadline for registration under the reinstated Alien Registration Act is Friday, and failure to comply could result in immediate legal consequences.
This action has sparked widespread anxiety, particularly among undocumented immigrants, temporary visa holders, and mixed-status families, many of whom worry that this new policy could trigger extensive enforcement actions and increased scrutiny.
