In a significant escalation of immigration enforcement, the Trump administration has implemented a new rule requiring all immigrants in the U.S. to carry proof of their legal status at all times. Effective as of April 11, this directive is part of Trump’s executive order titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion” and revives a rarely enforced 1940 law. The rule aims to strengthen control over undocumented immigrants, putting millions at risk of fines, detention, or deportation.
The regulation is rooted in the Alien Registration Act of 1940, which previously required immigrants to register with the government but had not been rigorously enforced. Under the new rule, non-citizens aged 14 and older who plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register using “Form G-325R.” For those arriving in the country on or after April 11, registration must be completed within 30 days of entry. Additionally, any change of address must be reported within 10 days, with penalties for non-compliance that can reach up to $5,000.
Legal immigrants, including those on H-1B visas, student visas, and green cards, are considered already registered but must carry documentation proving their legal status at all times. Minors must re-register when they turn 14, submitting updated information and fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday.
Indian nationals are expected to be particularly affected by this rule, with an estimated 5.4 million Indians currently living in the U.S., including around 220,000 undocumented individuals. While Indian students and skilled workers with valid visas are not required to re-register, they must still carry identification proof consistently.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stressed that all non-citizens aged 18 and older must carry documentation at all times, and the administration has directed DHS to prioritize enforcement. Those found violating the rule could face imprisonment for up to six months or even deportation if they fail to provide valid documentation. The Trump administration has made it clear that strict enforcement is the new standard, with little tolerance for non-compliance.
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