New mandatory requirement for travel in the United States

Thousands of people residing in the United States without proper documentation will now face a new obstacle to travel.

As announced by the Department of Homeland Security, the measure will apply to all passengers 18 and older traveling on domestic flights. Those without compatible identification, such as a driver's license with a gold or black star, must present a valid passport or other TSA-acceptable document.

Excludes those who cannot prove legal status

Obtaining a Real ID is no small task. To obtain one, applicants must prove their identity, residency, Social Security number, and legal status in the United States. This excludes thousands of undocumented immigrants or those with uncertain immigration status who, until now, were able to travel using other state documents.

Federal authorities have made it clear that apps like CBP One will no longer be accepted as a form of identification at airports, except for those using the app to self-deport.

Changes after Trump came to power

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called the previous permissiveness a "horrendous" policy that, in her words, facilitated the internal movement of undocumented individuals. "This new system will prevent individuals without legal status from using air transportation to travel across the country," she said.

The Real ID will not be mandatory for driving or living in the United States, but requiring it for flights marks a turning point in domestic immigration policy, hampering the mobility of millions of people.

What documents are accepted?

In addition to the Real ID, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will accept other valid documents for boarding flights after the deadline, including:

• Valid U.S. or foreign passport

• Permanent Residence Card (Green Card)

• border crossing card

• Employment authorization card with photo issued by USCIS

• Department of Defense Documents (for military personnel and dependents)

State licenses that do not include the Real ID badge will no longer be valid for air travel, although they will continue to function as identification within their respective states.

Restriction with disproportionate impact on immigrants

Various pro-immigrant organizations have criticized the measure. They point out that it could lead to family separation, impede urgent medical transfers, or limit the employment opportunities of those who depend on air travel.

Meanwhile, obtaining a Real ID remains impossible in many states for people who live and work in the country but do not have legal immigration status.