*****March 31, 2025 UPDATE--Several organizations have filed a lawsuit against the implementation of this rule. Now we wait to see if an injunction gets issued before April 11, 2025.
In line with the current administration's anti-immigrant rhetoric, beginning April 11, 2025, a registration requirement that was first implemented in the 1940s is making a comeback.
Unless an individual is considered to already be registered (discussed in more detail below), all noncitizens above the age of 14 who are present in the United States for 30 days or longer must apply for registration and to be fingerprinted. Parents are responsible for registering children under the age of 14 subject to the registration requirements.
Along with the registration requirement, there will be penalties for failing to file a change of address within ten days of moving and for providing fraudulent information.
Who is exempt from registration?
Non-immigrants issued a non-immigrant visa or I-94
Non-immigrants with Border Crossing Cards
Non-citizens that have been paroled into the United States under INA 212(d)(5)
Applicants for adjustment of status/legalization, even if such applications were denied
Lawful permanent residents/Immigrant visa holders
Non-citizens placed into removal proceedings
Non-citizens issued an employment authorization document
Consequences for failure to register?
The failure to register must be "willful"
Criminal penalties include fines of up to $5,000.00 and/or imprisonment up to 6 months
Potential impact on pending cases
If you are uncertain about your obligations related to these requirements or have any questions about the process, please contact our office at 714-605-4393 or send an email to info@monilaw.com
More information can also be found at the USCIS website: https://www.uscis.gov/alienregistration
Comments