US Immigration Crackdown: Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 visa holders must now carry ID 24×7 or risk jail and fines

A broad national requirement in America is about to transform the daily lives of millions of immigrants, affecting not only undocumented folks, but those on legal employment, student, or travel visas as well. The Trump administration has implemented a new directive under the Alien Registration Act that mandates all non-citizens, including Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 visa holders, to possess valid evidence of registration 24×7.

The policy, which took effect recently, makes it mandatory for all non-citizens above 18 years to carry documents showing federal registration everywhere they go. Emphasizing the gravity of the action, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) added: "All non-citizens aged 18 and above are required to carry this documentation with them at all times. This administration has instructed DHS to focus on enforcement, there will be no sanctuary for noncompliance."

Mandatory registration, fingerprinting and proof of identity for all immigrants

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All immigrants 14 years and older who remain in the US for more than 30 days are now required to register and provide fingerprints unless this has already been accomplished when applying for their US visa. For new entrants after April 11, the registration period is 30 days. Non-compliance can lead to a fine of up to USD 5,000, 30 days' imprisonment, or both.

Parents or guardians are also required to register under 14-year-olds. At 14 years and above, such minors need to re-register and provide biometric information again.

What happens after you register? Carry your papers 24×7

After the process is finished, all persons above 18 will be issued with proof of registration. This is a document to be carried around. Not having it during an official check could lead to fines, imprisonment, or deportation.

A change of address also has to be notified to USCIS within 10 days, failing which the same penalties are applicable.

Who is considered registered under the new law?

The following groups are deemed to be in compliance with the Alien Registration rule:

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
• H-1B and F-1 visa holders with unexpired Form I-94
• People with work authorisation or Border Crossing Cards
• Those paroled into the United States
• Those who received immigrant or nonimmigrant visas before admission
• Those in proceedings for removal

However, undocumented aliens, those entering without visa documents, and those who have not submitted any benefits applications to USCIS are required to register anew.

Exemptions under the new rule

Exemptions include members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas and American Indians born in Canada (under INA Section 289).

What this means for Indian Green Card, H-1B, and F-1 holders

Indian nationals in the US who are legally in the country on a valid Green Card, work permit, student visa, or I-94 record are already considered registered. But now, according to the new directive, they will be required to have identification proof with them at all times and inform USCIS promptly of any address change. The penalty is serious—failure to comply can invite criminal prosecution, hefty fines, or even removal from the US.

The Trump administration is undoubtedly adopting a zero-tolerance policy on immigration compliance. Leaving no scope for mercy, visa holders and legal immigrants need to take this ID mandate seriously. Green Card holders, F-1 students, and H-1B professionals need to be prepared to never find themselves without documents in hand.