The Trump administration is threatening to punish undocumented immigrants in the U.S. with criminal penalties, including fines potential jail time, if they don’t sign up for the Federal Immigrant Registry, a new registry announced on February 25. This marks the latest move by the Trump administration to ramp up immigration enforcement efforts. Processing and removing undocumented individuals from the U.S. remain a priority in this administration.
The move, announced by the Department of Homeland Security on applies to all migrants over the age of thirteen that are in the U.S. without a legal basis and have not registered with the newly announced Federal Immigrant Registry. The Trump administration clarified it will release an online form allowing undocumented immigrants to register. The form has not yet been published. Any alternative method of registering has yet to be announced.
The February 25 announcement was framed to encourage unauthorized migrants to self-deport. Parents or legal guardians of unauthorized migrants ages thirteen to eighteen must register on their behalf. All foreign nationals and immigrants over the age of 14 must register. Upon registration, individuals will receive proof of registration. All foreign nationals and immigrants over the age of 18 must carry this proof of registration with them at all times.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical.
