The federal government will require illegal aliens, including minors, to register with U.S. authorities, according to an announcement from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Tuesday, February 25th. The directive, which enforces long-standing immigration laws, applies to aliens over 14 or older who have not previously registered with the federal government.
The registration process will begin in the coming weeks and require aliens to submit an application for registration and fingerprinting. Parents and guardians must also ensure that children under 14 are registered. Additionally, previously registered children must re-register and provide fingerprints within 30 days of turning 14. Those who comply will receive official registration documents, which all registered aliens over 18 must carry at all times.
“Once an alien has registered and appeared for fingerprinting (unless waived), DHS will issue evidence of registration, which aliens over the age of 18 must carry and keep in their possession at all times,” the statement stated. “No alien will have an excuse for failure to comply with this law.”
The policy originates from the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) of 1952, which builds on earlier registration laws, including the Alien Registration Act of 1940, and requires aliens in the U.S. to register with the government. While the law has existed for decades, the Trump administration has moved to enforce the requirement actively, citing national security and immigration enforcement priorities. Failure to comply may lead to civil and criminal penalties, including misdemeanor charges and fines.
“Illegal aliens must register with the federal government. This has been the law of the land for decades & we will enforce it,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “If they register and leave now, they may have the opportunity to return and live the American dream. If they don’t, they will face the consequences.”
DHS has not yet released details on how the registration process will work but has encouraged affected individuals to create an online USCIS account in preparation. Officials say additional guidance will be provided in the coming days.
