Trump Administration Enforces Immigrant ID Law: Noncitizens Must Register or Face Deportation

Washington, D.C. — In a sweeping move aimed at tightening immigration enforcement, the Trump administration has begun enforcing a controversial rule requiring all noncitizens residing in the United States for more than 30 days to register with the federal government—or face serious legal consequences, including deportation.

Federal Judge Clears the Way

The policy was greenlit after a U.S. District Court judge ruled in favor of allowing the administration to proceed with the registration mandate. The requirement falls under the Alien Registration Act and impacts millions of foreign nationals currently living in the United States.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, all noncitizens aged 18 and over must carry official documentation at all times as proof of registration.

White House: “Comply or Face Arrest, Fines, Deportation”

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt underscored the administration's firm stance. “Failure to comply with this is a crime punishable by fines and imprisonment,” she said. “Any individual who fails to do so will be arrested, fined, and deported back to their respective countries.”

She added that individuals who voluntarily leave the country now may be eligible to return legally in the future, but those who do not comply risk permanent removal and a lifetime ban.

Who Must Register?

Under the new enforcement guidelines:

All noncitizens 14 years and older must register within 30 days of entering the country or upon turning 14.

Parents or legal guardians must register children under 14.

Individuals must submit Form G-325R via a USCIS online account and complete biometric appointments.

Those already registered under previous immigration forms or with certain visa statuses may be exempt.

Exemptions include:

American Indians born in Canada under Section 289 of the INA.

Members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act.

Penalties for Noncompliance

Willful failure to register or provide biometrics can result in misdemeanor charges, fines of up to $5,000, and up to six months in prison. Additionally, registered individuals must carry proof of registration at all times and update address changes with USCIS to avoid further penalties.

How to Register

To register, eligible individuals must:

Create an online account with USCIS.

Submit Form G-325R.

Attend a biometric data collection appointment.

Carry registration documents at all times.

The administration warns against immigration scams and advises all individuals to use official government channels for registration.

What’s Next?

As the deadline passes, immigration advocates and civil rights groups are watching closely, raising concerns over civil liberties and the impact on mixed-status families. The Trump administration maintains that the policy is essential for national security and transparency.

For more information and to register, visit the USCIS official site.