The Alien Registration Act has been around since 1940 and currently requires foreign nationals 14 or older to register with the government and be fingerprinted if they will be in the United States for 30 days or longer.
The law has not been regularly enforced, according to the American Immigration Lawyers Association, but on Jan. 20, President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to ensure that aliens comply with the law and register with the government.
The effective date of the order was April 11, meaning that noncitizens who have not already registered must register if they will remain in the U.S. past May 11.
Failure to comply with the registration requirement is being treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority, which could mean criminal and civil penalties up to and including misdemeanor prosecution, the imposition of fines, and incarceration, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. It could also affect future applications for immigration benefits.
Foreign nationals 18 years and older are also required to always carry proof of registration. Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor, including fines or imprisonment.
In an April 11 release, the Department of Homeland Security said the following applied to all noncitizens, regardless of status:
- Present in the U.S. for 30 days or more as of April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register immediately via USCIS.
- Entering on or after April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register within 30 days of arrival.
- Turning 14 in the U.S.: Re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of your 14th birthday, even if previously registered.
- Parents or guardians of minors under 14: Register minors if they remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer.
Also See the American Immigration Lawyers Association Flier
Understanding Alien Registration Requirements
The government requirements may be clearly delineated, but the implications of registering for undocumented noncitizens are less certain, as registering may lead to self-incrimination and immigration enforcement actions.
It is important to consult with an immigration attorney.
Cramer & Anderson Immigration Law Attorney Lisa Rivas may be reached by phone at 203-744-1234, or by email at Lrivas@crameranderson.com.
Attorney Rivas has significant experience with the full range of immigration issues, including removal proceedings, asylum interviews, family petitions, National Visa Center, Consular processing, and SIJ status matters.
About Cramer & Anderson
Cramer & Anderson provides sophisticated legal services, close to home, with regional offices in New Milford, Litchfield, Danbury, and Ridgefield. For more information, see the firm’s website or call the flagship office in New Milford at (860) 355-2631.