Immigration

Trump’s immigration crackdown just got real - Are you on the list?

The Trump administration has announced the creation of a registry for undocumented immigrants. What is it? Is it mandatory? These people must register.

A new registry for undocumented immigrants: What you need to know

As part of his plan for mass deportations and stricter border control, former President Donald Trump has unveiled a new registry for undocumented immigrants under the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952.

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), undocumented immigrants in the US will be required to provide personal information—including their full name, fingerprints, and address—through an official government website that will be launched soon.

"President Trump and Secretary [Kristi] Noem have a clear message for those in our country illegally: leave now. If you leave now, you may have the opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American dream," DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated. "The Trump administration will enforce all our immigration laws—we will not pick and choose which laws we will enforce. We must know who is in our country for the safety and security of our homeland and all Americans."

Is registration mandatory?

Yes. According to the Alien Registration Requirement website, registration is legally required for any undocumented immigrant aged 14 and older. “It is the legal obligation of all unregistered aliens (or previously registered children who turn 14 years old) in the United States to comply with these requirements,” the statement reads.

Those who refuse to comply could face serious consequences, including fines, prison time, or both, as outlined by DHS. The goal of this initiative is to compel “mass self-deportation” of undocumented foreigners saying that it “is a safer path for aliens and law enforcement, and saves U.S. taxpayer dollars, in addition to conserving valuable Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) resources needed to keep Americans safe.”

What happens next?

As of now, the online registration form has not been published. However, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has indicated that it will be available “soon.” In the meantime, undocumented immigrants are encouraged to create an account on the official USCIS website.

Once the registry goes live, those who sign up will be required to carry their registration certificate at all times. However, it’s important to note that this document does not provide any legal immigration status or work authorization.

For more details, visit the official USCIS website.

Original article written by Daniela Barrera, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.

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