Foreign Nationals In US Must Register Within 30 Days Or Face Penalties Under New Trump-Backed Rule

All foreign nationals living in the United States for more than 30 days must now register with federal authorities or face penalties under a new directive supported by the Trump administration.

The policy, based on wartime laws from World War II, has been approved by a federal judge and aims to tighten immigration compliance nationwide.

“All foreign nationals present in the United States longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Saturday.

She added that violators may be arrested, fined, deported, and barred from re-entry.

US District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, rejected legal attempts to block the rule. He ruled on Thursday that the plaintiffs lacked standing.

The rule applies to all non-citizens—including visa holders, green card holders, and work permit recipients—residing in the country beyond 30 days.

They must carry proof of legal status at all times. Violations could result in fines up to $5,000 or jail terms of up to 30 days.

Children who turn 14 must re-register and provide fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday. Anyone arriving in the U.S. after April 11 must also register within 30 days unless already documented.

Immigration groups strongly oppose the directive. They warn it could fuel racial profiling, fear in immigrant communities, and federal overreach.

Legal experts say the foreign nationals registration rule in U.S. may face future constitutional challenges. For now, it remains in force.

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