The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a key reminder directed at all immigrants.
In an official statement on their social media, they warned that any change of address must be notified within 10 days following the move. The notice aims to ensure that applicants for immigration benefits receive their correspondence without delays or setbacks.
According to USCIS, this requirement applies to all foreigners in the United States, except for holders of A and G visas, and visitors under the visa waiver program.
The address change must be made directly with USCIS, as updating the information only with the United States Postal Service (USPS) does not automatically update the records in immigration files.
The agency recommends updating through an online account, which allows for the change to be immediate and eliminates the need to submit the AR-11 Form by mail. It is also possible to complete the process in physical format, although it will take longer and will not provide an automatic update in the system.
New judicial requirement tightens immigration control
This USCIS reminder coincides with a recent ruling that marks a turning point in the country's immigration policy. A federal judge in Washington, D.C., granted the Donald Trump administration the authority to require that all unauthorized individuals in the United States register with USCIS.
The decision, issued on Thursday, April 10, by Judge Trevor Neil McFadden, will take effect this Friday. All immigrants over the age of 14 without legal status must register their address and provide their fingerprints. Parents or legal guardians must register the minors in their care.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assures that those who fail to register or do not report their change of address are subject to fines, jail time, or both.
Warnings from experts and organizations
Immigrant rights advocacy groups have expressed concern over the ethical and legal implications of this measure, as the system could be used as a tool for mass deportations and to stigmatize vulnerable migrant communities.
In light of this situation, immigrants in the United States are advised not only to stay informed but also to rigorously update their address with USCIS, as an essential measure to avoid penalties and ensure the processing of their cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About the New Registration Requirements for Immigrants in the U.S.
What should immigrants do when changing their address in the United States?
All immigrants in the United States must notify USCIS of any change of address within 10 days of moving. This is crucial to ensure that they receive all correspondence related to their immigration cases without delays. It is important to emphasize that updating the address only with the U.S. Postal Service is not sufficient and does not replace this immigration requirement.
Who is required to register with USCIS under the new regulations?
All immigrants over the age of 14 without legal status must register with USCIS. Additionally, parents or legal guardians must also register the minors under their care. This registration is part of a new judicial requirement that tightens immigration control in the United States.
What are the consequences of failing to comply with immigration registration?
Failure to register may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. According to the Department of Homeland Security, failing to register an address or to comply with fingerprint submission can have serious legal consequences for immigrants in the United States.
How should immigrants update their address with USCIS?
Address updates should preferably be made through an online USCIS account. This method allows for immediate changes and avoids the need to mail the AR-11 Form, which could delay the process further.
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