What to Know Wednesday

The Legal Requirement to Carry Proof of Immigration Status

Did you know that all foreign nationals over the age of 18 are legally required to carry proof of their immigration status while in the U.S.?  Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), failure to comply can lead to serious consequences—including fines and even jail time.

Here are five things you need to know:

1.  It is the Law

The INA requires all noncitizens over 18 to carry proof of registration at all times.  This includes lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), temporary visa holders, and others lawfully present in the U.S.
Failing to do so is a misdemeanor, punishable by:

• A fine of up to $5,000
• Imprisonment for up to 30 days
• Or both

2.  What Counts as Proof?

Acceptable documents include:

• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
• Official USCIS-issued notices, such as Receipt or Approval Notices

Digital copies or keeping documents at home are not enough—you must carry physical documentation with you.

3.  You Must Report Address Changes

All foreign nationals are required to notify USCIS of any address change within 10 days.  This applies to both temporary and permanent moves.

Failure to update your address is also a misdemeanor, and carries:

• A fine of up to $5,000
• Up to 30 days in jail

You can file Form AR-11 online at uscis.gov/alienregistration.

4.  The Consequences Go Beyond Fines

Beyond criminal penalties, not complying with these requirements can have serious immigration consequences.  Violations may:
​

• Delay or jeopardize future applications
• Complicate visa renewals or green card processes
• Trigger removal proceedings in some cases

5.  It is Easy to Stay Compliant

Compliance is simple once you know what’s required:

• Always carry original, valid proof of status
• File your address change within 10 days of moving
• Contact a trusted immigration attorney if you're unsure what applies to you

Need help reviewing your immigration documents or filing a change of address? Reach out to us at [email protected] for personalized guidance.
​Stay safe, stay informed, and join us next week for more helpful tips on What to Know Wednesday!

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help.  At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.
​
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.  To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].