Registration Requirements for Non-Citizens Effective April 11, 2025
In early 2025, President Trump issued an executive order regarding the enforcement of an alien registration requirement, effective April 11, 2025. This alien registration rule requires that all non-citizens who are age 14 years or older and in the United States for 30 days or more, must be registered and fingerprinted. All non-citizens who are age 18 years or older are also required to carry proof of registration at all times. Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor, which includes fines and/or jail time.
As the new rule unfolds and the circumstances continuously develop, it is important for non-citizens living in the United States to understand its requirements and potential consequences. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this alien registration rule, we strongly recommend that you consult an experienced immigration lawyer.
Have You Registered?
Broadly speaking, many non-citizens are considered registered simply by going through standard immigration processes. You are likely already registered if you have been issued one of the documents recognized as proof of registration, such as a green card, EAD, or Form I-94. Even if your immigration status has changed or expired, you may still be considered registered, depending on how you entered the United States or interacted with the U.S. immigration system.
Generally speaking, you are already registered if you fall into one of the following categories:
You are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
You were paroled into the United States, even if your parole period has expired.
You were admitted as a nonimmigrant (e.g., F-1, B1/B2, H-1B, etc.) and issued a Form I-94, even if your visa has expired.
You were issued an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa prior to your last arrival in the United States.
You have been placed in removal proceedings by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
You were issued an employment authorization document (EAD).
You applied for lawful permanent residency using one of these forms: I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700, and provided fingerprints, even if your application was denied.
You were issued a Border Crossing Card.
In general, you may not be registered if you have never applied for a visa with the Department of State, submitted a qualifying immigration form to the USCIS and been fingerprinted (unless waived), or be issued one of the documents that constitute proof of registration.
Who Must Register?
Broadly speaking, the new rule requires all non-citizens who are age 14 years or older and were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U.S. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or more, to be registered and fingerprinted. For non-citizens under the age of 14, their parents and legal guardians must register on their behalf. All previously registered non-citizens who are turning 14 must apply for re-registration and to be fingerprinted within 30 days of reaching their 14th birthday.
Non-citizens who are required to register may do so by submitting the Form G-325R with the USCIS.
What Documents Do You Need to Carry?
If you are a non-citizen and 18 years of age or older, the rule requires that you carry proof of your registration at all times. Common, acceptable forms of documentation include:
Green Card
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Arrival/Departure Record (Form I-94)
Border Crossing Card
Order to Show Cause and Notice of Hearing
Notice to Appear
What Happens if You Don’t Register or Carry Proof of Registration?
Generally speaking, a willful failure to follow the rule could result in a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine of up to $5000 and/or up to 30 days imprisonment. If you later apply for an immigration benefit, the government might deny the benefit for failing to register.
Change of Address
The laws also require that all non-citizens must report a change of address to the USCIS within 10 days of moving. A willful failure to follow the rule could result in a fine of up to $5000 and/or up to 30 days imprisonment and may result in removal.
Why This Matters More Than Ever?
With the federal government increasing enforcement efforts, non-citizens who are not in compliance with the rules could face serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and even jeopardizing their future immigration options. Whether you are planning to apply for a visa extension, permanent residency, or citizenship later on, keeping your records clean can make a critical difference. However, it is equally critical to understand your rights, the impact of any new rules on your immigrant status, and stay informed on new developments in immigration policies.
If you have any questions regarding your immigrant status, the alien registration requirement, and its consequences, we highly recommend that you consult an experienced immigration attorney to best understand your options and protect your rights.
Immigration law is an ever-changing area of law; thus, we highly recommend you to work with a legal counsel for the most up-to-date and detailed information. It will save you valuable time and frustration in the process. We are looking forward to working with you in meeting your immigration needs. Contact us.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. It does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Accessing or using information on this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and the Firm, and it is not intended to do so.
