The U.S. government has made a new rule. Undocumented immigrants must register online. They need to do this under the Alien Registration Act imposed by President Trump through USCIS. This rule helps keep track of immigration. If you don’t follow it, you could face serious consequences. These can include fines or even jail time.
At our law firm, we know that immigration laws can be confusing. We’re here to help make it easier for you to understand. We want to guide you through the steps, so you don’t have to worry about making mistakes.
We always aim to make changing immigration policies easier to understand. If you’re unsure how this new rule affects you or need help registering. Keep reading to learn more about how this might impact you and the simple steps we can take together to ensure you stay on track and protected. We’re here to help you through the process!
Explaining the Alien Registration Act?
Legal experts say this registry is expensive and complicated. It has been used before but has not worked well. It was first introduced in 1952. Over the years, it has been used and then stopped. This happened especially after 9/11. It was dropped again because it was too expensive and did not improve national security.
Even with the announcement, it is still unclear how the registration process will work. We do not know how millions of fingerprints will be collected. We also do not know the financial burden it will place on the American public. Critics say that the initiative is more of a political tool to create fear than a way to improve safety.
Why Is the Alien Registration Act Happening Now?
This policy stems from the Protecting the American People Against Invasion Executive Order, issued on January 20, 2025. The order focuses on enforcing old laws, like the Alien Registration Act. This act is meant to boost national security and improve immigration tracking.
While border agents already collect data from migrants apprehended at the border, many individuals enter the country without inspection. This new policy aims to close that gap. It will make sure that everyone living in the U.S. is properly registered under the Alien Registration Act.
Alien Registration Act Registration Requirements
Continue reading below to determine whether you or a family member need to complete the alien registration process.
Who Is Already Registered?
If a person already has an Alien Registration Number (A-Number), they may not need to register under the new Alien Registration Act process. However, this depends on their immigration status.
Who Might Be Exempt from Registering?
Individuals who have already complied with previous alien registration requirements, who own an alien identification number including:
✅ Green Card holders (lawful permanent residents with alien registration card numbers).
✅ Visa holders (both immigrant and non-immigrant).
✅ Work permit holders (Employment Authorization Document recipients).
✅ Individuals with an I-94 arrival/departure record - even if the period of admission has expired.
✅ People in deportation or removal proceedings.
✅ Those who have previously registered under the Alien Registration Act.
Important Notice: Having an I-94 Arrival or Departure Record
If you entered the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa (e.g., tourist, student, or work visa) and are now out of status, you have already complied with the Alien Registration Act. This is because you were fingerprinted when you first applied for your visa at the U.S. Embassy.
Who Must Register?
The registry applies to all undocumented individuals in the U.S. who have not received legal status. This includes undocumented individuals, including:
❌ Those who have never received legal status.
❌ DACA recipients without valid ID.
❌ TPS holders without work permits.
❌ Minors in mixed-status families turning 14.
Stay Informed:
To be sure, affected individuals should keep up with the latest immigration news, wait for official USCIS guidance, and seek legal counsel before taking action.
Is the Alien Registration Act a Trap?
Some immigration advocates warn that this new mandatory alien registration rule may put undocumented immigrants at risk. Critics argue that it revives old laws that could lead to deportations. The government says that not registering could lead to penalties. Legal experts argue that immigration violations are civil, not criminal.
What Are the Risks?
One major concern is that registering could expose undocumented individuals to deportation. Many undocumented immigrants have lived in the U.S. for years, paying taxes and contributing to society. However, the government has not provided any assurances that registered individuals will be protected from deportation.
Legal experts argue that the registry primarily serves to track individuals' addresses, making it easier for authorities to locate and detain them. There is growing concern that long-term undocumented immigrants, including elderly family members, could become vulnerable targets for immigration enforcement.
What’s Next?
USCIS will soon release details on the new Alien Registration Act process, including application timelines and requirements. However, implementation remains uncertain, and legal experts anticipate court challenges, citing concerns over civil rights and potential discriminatory enforcement.
Undocumented individuals and mixed-status families should stay informed and seek legal counsel before taking any action. California immigration attorney Josh Goldstein advises affected communities to wait for legal updates rather than rushing into compliance without understanding the risks.
It’s anticipated that the registry will face legal challenges due to potential civil rights violations, particularly racial profiling and discriminatory enforcement practices.
Contact Us for Expert Immigration Guidance Today!
It’s important to get the right Alien Registration requirements and legal advice before taking any action. Our law firm is here to help you understand your options and make the best decisions for your future.
Our experienced team can help you to remain compliant and avoid legal risks. Schedule a consultation now to get the support and protection you deserve!
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