Register or be deported”: Trump administration enforces 30-day rule for all foreign nationals in U.S.

US President Donald Trump

All foreign nationals residing in the United States for more than 30 days must now register with the federal government to avoid penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

The directive, backed by the Trump administration, has received the go-ahead from a federal judge and is set to dramatically alter immigration compliance standards.

"All foreign nationals present in the United States longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply with this is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both... If not, you will be arrested, fined, deported, never to return to our country again," said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

.@PressSec: "All foreign nationals present in the United States longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply with this is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both... If not, you will be arrested, fined, deported, never to return to pic.twitter.com/gIbQKpR4fC
Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 11, 2025

The controversial regulation stems from wartime legislation dating back to World War II and has raised alarms among immigrant rights groups. Despite legal challenges, U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden—appointed by Trump—rejected a request from advocacy organisations to block the policy, ruling that the plaintiffs lacked sufficient legal standing.

The new regulation requires all non-citizens staying in the U.S. for over 30 days to register with federal authorities. Even those already considered registered—such as visa holders, green card recipients, and individuals with work permits—must carry documentation proving their legal status at all times. Non-compliance could lead to fines up to $5,000 or up to 30 days in jail.

Children turning 14 must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday. Similarly, foreign nationals arriving after 11 April must register within 30 days if they do not already possess registration documentation.

Critics, including key immigrant rights groups, argue the new registration rule bypasses required public input and violates the Administrative Procedure Act, following Trump’s January executive order on immigration enforcement. The rule is expected to impact millions, including undocumented populations.

Immigration lawyers warn that all immigrants—documented or not—must now comply with tighter protocols, including timely registration and constant possession of ID documentation.