April 15th, 2025 at 05:12 am

New U.S. Travel Update: Mandatory DHS Registration Within 30 Days

A new rule from the Trump administration mandates that all foreign nationals in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including fines, jail time, or deportation. Here’s what every traveler and visa holder needs to know.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has introduced this rule to enhance immigration enforcement. Under this regulation, anyone remaining in the United States for over 30 days must register with the federal government. Ignoring this requirement can lead to serious consequences, such as daily fines and potential imprisonment.

Understanding Mandatory Registration

The DHS now requires registration for anyone staying in the U.S. beyond 30 days. If you do not register, you could face consequences that might include hefty fines and even jail time.

In a recent social media post titled “Message to Illegal Aliens,” the DHS emphasized this new policy. They stated, “Foreign nationals present in the U.S. longer than 30 days must register with the federal government. Failure to comply is a crime punishable by fines and imprisonment.” This warning marks a significant crackdown on undocumented stays in the country.

Consequences of Non-Registration

The penalties for not registering are serious. Here’s a summary of the potential repercussions:

• $998 per day fine if you remain after receiving a final removal order.
• 1,000 to 5,000 fine if you claim you will self-deport but do not follow through.
• Possible jail time for continued non-compliance.
• A ban from future legal entry into the U.S.

In short, delaying registration increases your penalties and reduces your chances of returning legally in the future.

Options for Self-Deportation

DHS offers a “safe exit” option for those who choose to leave voluntarily. This option allows individuals to:

• Choose their departure flight.
• Keep any earnings made in the U.S. (assuming no crimes were committed).
• Maintain eligibility for future immigration pathways.
• Apply for a subsidized flight home if needed.

DHS encourages undocumented individuals to self-deport now before enforcement escalates.

Impact on Legal Visa Holders

Currently, this rule does not directly target those holding legal visas, such as H-1B or F-1 students. However, if your visa expires or becomes invalid—such as through job loss—your legal status also ends. Therefore, if you are an H-1B visa holder who has been laid off and fails to leave within the grace period, you could be considered “unlawfully present” and subject to the same penalties.

Key Takeaways for Travelers and Expats

If you are living in or planning to visit the U.S., here’s what you should do:

Final Thoughts: Act Before It’s Too Late

This new policy represents a significant shift in immigration enforcement. It serves as a crucial reminder for anyone overstaying their welcome, whether intentionally or unintentionally. If you find yourself in the U.S. without valid documentation, it’s wise to consult an immigration lawyer or explore the self-deportation options offered by DHS before penalties escalate.