Many green card holders shelve travel plans after US advisory
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Speaking to TOI, many of them said that despite having valid documents they have shelved their holiday plans or turned down invites to family functions. Some have even put off their work trips, fearing trouble.
As per the USCBP's recent advisory, not having an "alien registration or alien registration receipt card" can lead to "misdemeanour and fines" if stopped by federal law enforcement.
"I cancelled a trip to Atlanta for my niece's wedding because I didn't want to take a flight and risk being questioned," said an Indian from New York who has been living in the US for over 15 years.
"Even though my documents are in order, it's just not worth the stress," he added.
Similarly, another immigrant — a resident of Chicago for 10 years — shared how he has called off his trip to Florida for the time being. "I recently secured my green card and I cannot risk anything," he added.
More fines in 2025: attorneys
Immigration attorneys say that while the law requiring green card holders to carry their registration has been in place for long, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, it has rarely been enforced in the past.
"In 2025, there's an uptick in CBP issuing fines, penalising people for not carrying their green cards," said Nicole Gunara, principal immigration attorney at Manifest Law, US. She added: "In Southern California alone the officials have issued fines to 46 individuals for not carrying their green card.
This is twice as many as issued in the entire 2024."
While families acknowledge the need for regulation, such moves, they say instill fear even among the law-abiding populace.
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"We came here legally. We pay taxes and contribute to the country's economy. But when you hear things like this, it reminds you how fragile your status is. I've started carrying my green card with me everywhere," said a 54-year-old, living in New Jersey for the last 21 years.
Lawyers uphold this practice. "Under the current administration, it's best to always keep your original documents and proofs with you. So far, we have not seen any cases of deportation, but fines/violations are never good. Compliance is everything now," said Gunara.
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