Foreign nationals living in the United States for more than 30 days have been reminded of an important legal deadline approaching on April 11.
The Department of Homeland Security, under the direction of Secretary Kristi Noem, is calling for all noncitizens to register under the Alien Registration Act, a law that has existed for decades but has seen renewed focus under the current administration.
The law applies to any foreign individual who has been in the country for 30 days or more. It requires them to register with the federal government or face serious legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or both. This renewed enforcement follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January aimed at strengthening border control and immigration enforcement.
The push to enforce the Alien Registration Act is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to tighten immigration procedures and ensure that federal laws are applied across the board. The government is emphasizing the importance of knowing who is inside the country to ensure national security and maintain legal order.
As part of the updated requirements, individuals who entered the U.S. before April 11, 2025, and have stayed for more than 30 days must register immediately through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Anyone arriving on or after April 11 must register within 30 days of entry. In addition, children who turn 14 must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday, regardless of prior registration. Parents are responsible for registering any minor under 14 who remains in the country longer than 30 days.
Once registered and fingerprinted, individuals will receive official documentation proving compliance. All noncitizens aged 18 and above must carry this proof at all times. The administration has stated that enforcement of this rule will be strict, and noncompliance will not be tolerated.
The government has also indicated that there will be no exceptions or sanctuary for those who fail to meet these legal obligations. This move is expected to impact many foreign nationals currently residing in the U.S., and the Department of Homeland Security is preparing to monitor and enforce the requirements rigorously.