The Department of Homeland Security is encouraging those who entered the U.S. without documentation and never had contact with immigration authorities to register fingerprints and photographs. Though the policy is based on long-standing immigration laws, its renewed attention has left many undocumented immigrants uncertain about whether they need to take action.
Immigration attorneys stress that many people, such as those who applied for visas, work permits or protections like DACA, are already in the system and do not need to re-register.
Lawyer Kathia Quiros advises people not to rely on secondhand information when it comes to something as serious as immigration status.
“Sit down with an immigration lawyer who can tell you to your face and based on your life history, what is and isn’t best for you to do,” Quiros said. Her message: Don’t let fear or misinformation lead to the wrong decision.
