What You Need to Know About the New Immigration Registration Policy in 2025

In April 2025, the Trump administration announced a controversial new policy requiring undocumented immigrants to register with the federal government. This mandate, based on a rarely enforced provision of immigration law, has triggered confusion, fear, and concern among immigrant communities nationwide.

As immigration attorneys who believe love has no borders, we want to help you understand what this policy actually says, who it affects, and what to do next—especially if you or your loved ones are undocumented and married to a U.S. citizen.

What Is the New Policy?

Under this policy, all undocumented immigrants over the age of 14 who have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days are required to register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This registration includes:

Full name and address
Fingerprints and photograph
Information about entry and immigration history

Failure to register can result in criminal charges, including:

Misdemeanor charges
Fines up to $1,000
Up to 6 months in federal jail

Additionally, undocumented immigrants over 18 are required to carry proof of registration at all times. Failure to do so can result in further fines or arrest.

Is There a Deadline?

Although the administration has not set a hard cut-off date, individuals who have been in the U.S. for over 30 days are expected to comply immediately. Those who do not may face enforcement actions or prosecution.

What Is the “Voluntary Departure” Incentive?

In conjunction with the registration order, the administration is offering a $1,000 incentive plus travel assistance for undocumented immigrants who voluntarily leave the U.S. after registering.

While this program may sound appealing to some, it does not protect your ability to return legally in the future—and for many, it can be a trap that leads to long-term separation from family in the U.S.

Will My U.S. Citizen Spouse or Family Get in Trouble?

No. If you are married to a U.S. citizen or have citizen family members, they are not criminally liable under this policy. However, your registration—or failure to register—can affect your immigration options, including:

Green card eligibility
Waiver requirements
Risk of ICE enforcement

If your spouse is trying to sponsor you, the decision to register (or not) should be made carefully with legal guidance.

Should You Register?

This is the most important question—and the answer depends entirely on your personal immigration history, risk factors, and whether you are eligible for a pathway to legal status.

✅ You should absolutely speak to a qualified immigration attorney before taking any steps.

Registering may:

Increase your risk of deportation
Trigger prior removal orders
Hurt your future immigration eligibility

But in some cases, proactive legal filings—like a marriage-based green card or humanitarian relief—can protect you before DHS enforcement begins.