In a dramatic shift that has sparked anxiety within immigrant communities, the U.S. government has mandated that all foreign nationals residing in the country for over 30 days must register with federal authorities or face legal consequences including arrest, fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the directive, stating: “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.” She warned that violators “will be arrested, fined, deported, never to return to our country again.”

The policy, reactivated under the Alien Registration Act, traces back to World War II and was enabled after U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden, a Trump appointee, dismissed a lawsuit filed by advocacy groups challenging the regulation. The judge ruled the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to block the rule, allowing its enforcement to proceed.

The rule applies broadly to foreign nationals, including visa holders and legal permanent residents, who have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days. These individuals are now required to carry proof of registration at all times. Foreigners entering the country after April 11 must register within 30 days of arrival. Additionally, children turning 14 must re-register and provide fingerprints, regardless of any previous documentation status.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that those who fail to register by the deadline may face immediate legal action. Penalties include a fine of up to $5,000, up to 30 days of imprisonment, deportation, and a lifetime ban on re-entry into the U.S.

Leavitt, who also serves as an assistant to President Donald Trump, stressed that the move is rooted in national security priorities. “The Trump administration will continue to enforce our nation’s immigration laws. We must know who is in our country for the safety and the security of our homeland and for all American citizens,” she said.

The revived registration requirement has caused widespread unease among undocumented immigrants, visa holders, and mixed-status families, raising concerns about sweeping enforcement and surveillance measures.