Staying Over 30 Days in the U.S.? Mandatory Federal Registration Now Enforced

2025/05/05

Non-compliance Could Lead to Legal Consequences, Deportation, or Permanent Ban
In a significant development under the administration of President Donald Trump, foreign nationals remaining in the United States for more than 30 days are now legally obligated to register with federal authorities. The directive, officially in effect, seeks to strengthen immigration oversight and enforce national security measures.

Non-compliance with this rule may lead to harsh penalties, including fines, detention, or deportation, possibly accompanied by a permanent bar from re-entering the U.S. The policy is sweeping in scope, applying to virtually all non-citizens, regardless of their visa classification or immigration status.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the administration’s firm stance: “Foreigners staying beyond 30 days must register with the federal government. Ignoring this rule is a crime punishable by fines, jail, or removal from the country—potentially for life.”

Federal Judge Upholds Rule Amid Legal Challenges
On April 10, U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, appointed during President Trump’s earlier term, dismissed a lawsuit filed by advocacy groups aiming to stop the rule, citing a lack of legal standing. This ruling enabled the policy to take full effect the following day.

Rooted in a 1940s wartime law, the regulation has ignited widespread concern among immigrant communities and legal experts, particularly for its potential impact on undocumented populations and long-term visa holders.

Key Requirements Under the New Immigration Mandate
As outlined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

*All foreign nationals staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with federal authorities.
*Those already deemed registered (e.g., visa holders, green card holders) must carry proof of status at all times.
*Non-compliance may lead to fines up to $5,000 or jail time up to 30 days.

*Children turning 14 must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday.
*New arrivals after April 11 must register within 30 days if they are not already documented in the system.
Even individuals with valid work or study visas, including H-1B professionals, students, and lawful permanent residents, must keep their documentation updated and report any address changes within 10 days to stay compliant.

Trump Administration’s Message: Zero Tolerance for Illegal Stay
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reinforced the administration’s strict position on immigration: “The President and I want to make it clear—if you are in the country illegally, it’s time to leave. If you exit now, you may still be allowed to return legally and live the American dream.”

The DHS confirmed that enforcement will apply uniformly, regardless of an individual’s background or length of stay. The initiative stems from an executive order signed by President Trump on January 20, titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” The rule was published as an interim final regulation on March 12.

Major Implications for Indian and Other Undocumented Communities
The regulation’s impact is particularly significant for the undocumented Indian population in the U.S. Varying estimates include:

*220,000 undocumented Indians (DHS, 2022)
*375,000 undocumented Indians (Migration Policy Institute)
*700,000 undocumented Indians (Pew Research Center)
This directive will reshape the daily lives of millions of immigrants—both documented and undocumented—by introducing heightened scrutiny, registration deadlines, and proof-of-status requirements.

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