Uscis Implements Trump-Era Registration Rule for Immigrants

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has activated a mandatory registration for immigrants in the United States. This follows an order from President Donald Trump, based on a little-known 1940 law. The measure requires immigrants over 14 to formally register with authorities under the Alien Registration Act, also known as the Smith Act. This act imposes obligations and potential criminal penalties for non-compliance. This legislation dates back to a historical context marked by conflicts in Europe and Asia. Its original goal was to reinforce national security by controlling resident aliens. However, its recent application has generated debate. It affects thousands of immigrants who must now comply with the registration, overseen by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Smith Act, established in 1940, required all foreigners in the United States over 14 to register and provide fingerprints. This was to maintain stricter immigration control. In January 2025, President Trump instructed the DHS to ensure compliance with the registration. This was based on section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The USCIS established form G-325R for immigrants to formally register. Any foreigner staying more than 30 days in the United States, and is 14 years or older, must submit this documentation. Non-compliance is considered a misdemeanor. It carries potential fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment for a maximum of six months, or both. Matthew Tragesser, a USCIS spokesperson, stated that the Trump administration achieved a significant advancement. Over 57,000 immigrants have registered to date. He emphasized that non-compliance is now treated as a priority for civil and criminal enforcement. According to a Washington Post analysis of court data, most cases against immigrants criminally charged for not registering are in initial stages. At least 13 defendants were found guilty and face deportation or removal proceedings. Judge Michael B. North noted there was no evidence that the defendants knew they were required to register.