Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, delivered a stern warning on Tuesday to migrants who have yet to comply with the new mandatory registration process set forth by the United States government. She stated that "all foreign nationals residing in the U.S. for over 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to do so is a criminal offense that could result in fines, imprisonment, or both. Those who do not comply will face arrest, fines, deportation, and a ban from re-entering the country."
This statement underscores the ongoing campaign by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which has also cautioned via social media that migrants who fail to submit their biometric data, such as fingerprints, after registration may face additional legal repercussions. The agency emphasized on its X account that "once registered, USCIS will issue a notification to schedule a biometric service appointment. Ignoring this requirement could lead to criminal penalties."
The compulsory registration is a facet of Executive Order 14159, signed by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, aimed at strengthening border security and immigration control within the nation. According to the directive, migrants over the age of 14 who remain in the U.S. for more than 30 days and have not previously registered are required to complete the registration process. Moreover, parents or legal guardians must register minors under 14.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has clarified that registration does not confer immigration status or work authorization, but those who comply will receive an official certificate as proof of compliance with the law. To ease this process, USCIS introduced the G-325R form for collecting biometric data, alongside an online procedure to streamline registration.
The agency has also clarified that migrants who entered the country using the CBP One application will receive notifications about the cancellation of their stay permits, urging them to exit the country "immediately." This initiative has sparked concern within the migrant community amid an intensifying crackdown on undocumented individuals by the new U.S. administration.
Understanding the New Mandatory Registration for Migrants
What are the consequences of failing to register as a migrant in the U.S.?
Migrants who fail to register may face fines, imprisonment, deportation, and a ban on re-entering the United States.
What is the purpose of Executive Order 14159?
Executive Order 14159, signed by President Trump, aims to enhance border security and immigration control by mandating registration of foreign nationals staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days.
Does registering with the DHS provide any legal immigration status?
No, registering does not grant any immigration status or work authorization; it only serves as proof of compliance with the law.