DHS Says Central Purpose is to Gather Information on Noncitizens
(Washington)—The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) condemns the Trump administration’s Registration requirement that went into effect on Friday, April 11, 2025. The requirement to “register” is in our immigration laws but has rarely been used. The ILRC believes it is immoral and reprehensible and will cause much pain and suffering to immigrant communities, and Black and Brown people, and is aimed at removing as many noncitizens as quickly as possible.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been clear that the central purpose of Registration is to gather information about all noncitizens and use this information to locate, apprehend and remove them as quickly as possible. Registration does not confer the right to stay in the U.S. There is NO pathway to lawful permanent residence associated with the registration requirement.
The law requires that all noncitizens over age 14 who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or more to register. Many individuals are already registered. For example, if you are a permanent resident, have a work permit, or came with a visa, even if you have overstayed, you are considered registered and do not need to register again. People who got a Notice to Appear or an I-94 at any time are registered. Confirm first with a trusted and qualified legal representative if you need to complete registration.
The Fifth Amendment of the Constitution protects people in the United States against self-incrimination. Many individuals have the right not to answer questions on the new form. Speak to an attorney.
The ILRC has created The New Registration Requirement: Frequently Asked Questions to help answer questions.
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The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) is a national nonprofit that works with immigrants, community organizations, legal professionals, and policy makers to build a democratic society that values diversity and the rights of all people. Through community education programs, legal training & technical assistance, and policy development & advocacy, the ILRC works to protect and defend the fundamental rights of immigrant families and communities. Follow us at www.ilrc.org, and @the_ILRC on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and TikTok. Also follow us on Bluesky @the-ilrc.bsky.social, and on Facebook.