Increased Security Measures at Borders Begin on September 11, 2002

The Department of Justice announced the implementation of the first phase of the National Security Entry-Exit Registration System to begin on the one year anniversary of the September 11, 2002 attacks. INS was charged with beginning the program at selected ports of entry on September 11, 2002. The first phase is scheduled to last twenty days. During this initial twenty days the entry-exit registration system will be tested and evaluated. On October 1, 2002, the program will be implemented in all ports of entry to the United States, including land, air and sea.

The National Security Entry-Exit Registration System was mandated by the USA Patriot Act. Congress wanted to create a system where the borders of the country were more secure and wanted foreign nationals to comply with the immigration laws from the time they enter the country until the time they leave the country.

The Entry-Exit system involves fingerprinting some individuals when they enter the country. The criteria for those who will be fingerprinted will be determined by the Department of Justice. The fingerprints will be checked against those of known criminals and terrorists. If fingerprints are matched in the database the individuals will be arrested. The Department of Justice has indicated that from January to July 2002 there were more than 2,000 arrests made based on matched fingerprints. The fingerprint checks will be a valuable resource for identifying known felons who attempt to enter the country.

The registration system will also require individuals to confirm their activities in the country. The system will request address and employment confirmation. In addition, upon the U.S., the individuals must confirm their exit with the INS.

The fingerprinting and confirmation requirement will be used for nationals of the following countries Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan and Syria. In addition, nonimmigrants whom the Department of State determines to present a security risk based on the criteria established by the Department of Justice as well as individuals identified at the port of entry may also be fingerprinted.

Greenberg Traurig will continue updating our website and newsletter as The National Security Entry-Exit Registration System evolves.

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