Overview
- Executive Order 14159 requires noncitizens who remain in the U.S. longer than 30 days to register and provide biometrics, with civil and criminal penalties for failing to comply.
- Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem says USCIS has accelerated processing and increased naturalizations under President Trump, even as outlets report a backlog of roughly 11.3 million cases.
- USCIS reiterates that extended travel can break continuous residence and physical‑presence requirements for naturalization, with absences over six months raising flags and a year or more likely interrupting eligibility.
- Green card holders planning trips of a year or longer are advised to obtain a reentry permit before departure, and those away beyond permit validity may need an SB‑1 returning resident visa to reenter.
- Officials emphasize practical rules for travelers and applicants, including required documents for departure and reentry, and the core eligibility paths to permanent residence through family, employment, or refugee/asylee status.