On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14159, titled “Protecting The American People Against Invasion,” which mandates the creation of a registry for undocumented immigrants in the United States. This registry requires individuals aged 14 and older residing illegally in the U.S. to provide personal information, including fingerprints and home addresses. Failure to comply may result in fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for implementing this directive, aiming to criminalize unauthorized presence in the country. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that immigrants have the choice to either comply or face legal consequences.
Historically, similar registries have been established, such as the Alien Registration Act of 1940 and a post-9/11 registry targeting men and boys from predominantly Muslim countries. Legal experts express concerns about the practicality and resource implications of enforcing such a policy.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is developing the registration form and process. Immigrants are encouraged to create an account on the official USCIS website to prepare for compliance. It’s important to note that registration does not grant any legal status or work authorization.
In response to this federal mandate, local governments are determining their level of cooperation. For instance, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has indicated partial compliance with the registry, requiring undocumented migrants to provide personal information or face penalties, while still adhering to the city’s sanctuary laws.
The risk of compliance far outweighs the relatively low and uncertain risk of enforcement for noncompliance. We are not advising you to break the law; rather, we want you to fully understand the consequences so you can make an informed decision.
By registering, you are voluntarily handing over your personal information, which could ultimately lead to your deportation. Conversely, if you choose not to comply, you may face civil or criminal penalties—but only if authorities are able to locate and enforce them against you.
For questions or concerns, please call us at:
Indianapolis, IN: (317) 487-4652
Louisville, KY: (502) 493-6009