New crackdown against foreigners living in US without registration

Washington: Legal action will be taken against all foreigners who have stayed in the United States for more than 30 days and have not registered themselves under the Alien Registration Act starting Saturday.

US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristin Noem warned all foreign nationals to take advantage of the April 11 deadline to register themselves under federal law or be prepared for strict action.

Under the law, such aliens will be considered criminals and can be fined, imprisoned, or both.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristin Noem said that President Trump and she are sending a clear message to people living illegally in the United States that if you leave the United States now, you will have the opportunity to come back to the United States and enjoy freedom here and live the American dream.

Kristi Noem also warned that the Trump administration will strictly enforce all immigration laws and that there will be no pick-and-choose policy in this regard. The administration wants to know who is living in the United States for the safety and security of this country and all Americans.

It is pertinent to note that President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, which was related to protecting the American people from foreign attack, ensuring the rule of law in the immigration system, and holding the Department of Homeland Security accountable.

This order also included ensuring the implementation of the Alien Registration Act.

Under this act, all foreign citizens, without any discrimination, will be required to register themselves immediately with USCIS if they have been in the United States for 30 days or more by April 11, 2025. If they are entering the United States after April 11 without registering, they must register within 30 days. Children in the United States who are turning 14 should re-register and submit their fingerprints within 30 days of their 14th birthday.

This provision will also apply to children who have already registered. Parents or guardians of children under 14 are asked to register their children if they will be in the United States for 30 days or more.

The Department of Homeland Security will issue a proof of registration document to those who register.

It has also been ordered that all non-US citizens aged 18 and over must carry this document with them at all times. Those who violate the order will not be granted asylum because enforcement of the law will be the priority of the Department of Homeland Security.