Bad news for Indians in US as H-1B, Green Card holders will now have to…
US Immigration New Rules: In a major policy shift, the Trump administration has recently said that it is mandatory for all immigrants in the United States to carry their identification documents at all times. The immigrants include legal residents, workers, and students. Following a court decision upholding a Trump-era policy, the decision was announced by Department of Homeland Security (DHS), stating that it will proceed with a plan requiring undocumented immigrants in the country to register with the government.
“All non-citizens 18 and older must carry this documentation at all times. This administration has directed DHS to prioritise enforcement, there will be no sanctuary for noncompliance,” the DHS statement said. The rule came into effect on Friday, April 11.
Following President Trump’s January 20th executive order, “Protecting the American People Against Invasion,” which mandated enforcement of the Alien Registration Act, further developments have occurred.
The New Rules?
As per several media reports, these new rules by the Trump administration will impact illegal or undocumented immigrants. It bound all non-citizens, who are above 14 years of age and remain in America for 30 days or more, to register themselves by filling Form G-325R. Immigrant children are also required to renew their registration and provide fingerprints within one month of their fourteenth birthday.
Additionally, people who are arriving in the United States after April 11, are also required to register themselves with the government. They should complete the registration process within 30 days of arrival. People who are changing their address will also have to report within 10 days or they will be slapped USD 5,000 fine.
Rules For H1-B Visa, Green Card Holders
US immigration regulations will not impact those already legally present, including visa holders (student, work, or tourist), green card holders, those with employment documentation or a border crossing card, and those with an I-94 admission record. These individuals are considered pre-registered.
Indian citizens holding valid US visas or Green Cards are exempt from registration requirements. However, they must carry their identification documents at all times and present them upon request from authorities.
It is noteworthy that there are around 5.4 million Indians in America. As per DHS data, approx 2.20 lakh Indians were living legally as of 2022. However, the Pew Research Center estimates the figure at 7 lakh, while the Migration Policy Institute estimates it at 3.75 lakh, Times of India reported.
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