USCIS’s new regulation is now being strictly enforced — failure to register or to carry valid identity documents may result in criminal penalties

Starting April 11, 2025, all foreign nationals who stay in the United States for more than 30 days must complete the Alien Registration process and carry valid proof of identity at all times, or they may face heavy fines or even criminal penalties.

This requirement stems from Presidential Proclamation No. 14159, signed by President Donald J. Trump on January 20, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued implementing regulations on March 12, and a federal court upheld the rule on April 10. The policy officially went into effect on April 11, 2025.

What is “Alien Registration”?

"Alien Registration" is not new — it originated from the Alien Registration Act of 1940. However, this round of enforcement marks a renewed emphasis on tracking the presence and identity of foreign nationals in the U.S., and is expected to become a key tool for future immigration enforcement.

Who Must Register?

Foreign nationals who plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days and did not have their fingerprints collected during the visa process must complete registration and provide biometrics. This includes:

• Foreign nationals aged 14 or older;

• Parents/guardians must register children under 14;

• Children must re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of turning 14.

Exempt Individuals:

• Canadian-born Indigenous persons entering under INA § 289;

• Members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.

Before applying for registration, you may first check whether you have already completed the process through other immigration procedures — you might not need to register again.

✅ Who Is Already Registered?

The following individuals are generally considered registered and do not need to register again:

• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders);

• Individuals paroled into the U.S. (even if parole has expired);

• Visa holders admitted with a valid I-94 or I-94W (paper or electronic), even if expired;

• Immigrants and nonimmigrants who lawfully entered the U.S.;

• Individuals in removal proceedings initiated by DHS;

• Holders of valid Employment Authorization Documents (EAD);

• Those who submitted Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700 and were fingerprinted (unless waived), even if their applications were denied;

• Holders of valid Border Crossing Cards.

✖️ Who Has Not Registered?

The following individuals are not considered registered:

• Foreign nationals present in the U.S. without inspection or parole, including those who crossed the border illegally;

• Canadian visitors who entered the U.S. by land and were not issued proof of registration;

• Individuals who submitted applications not listed in 8 CFR § 264.1(a) (such as for Deferred Action or Temporary Protected Status), and did not receive a registration document under 8 CFR § 264.1(b).

How to Register (5-Step Process):

1. Create a USCIS online account: https://my.uscis.gov

2. Submit Form G-325R online (no paper filing available);

3. Wait for USCIS review. If already registered, you’ll receive confirmation;

4. If not registered, you’ll receive a fingerprint appointment notice (some exemptions apply);

5. Once approved, download your electronic proof of registration (PDF).

Legal Obligations for Foreign Nationals in the U.S.

1. Carry valid proof of registration or legal immigration status

• All foreign nationals aged 18 or older, including green card holders and visa holders (H-1B, F-1, L-1, O-1, etc.), must carry identity documents at all times, such as:

  • Green Card

  • I-94 record

  • I-20 (for F-1)

  • I-797 approval notices

  • G-325R registration confirmation from USCIS

2. Update your address within 10 days after moving

• Under INA § 265, all foreign nationals must file an address update with USCIS within 10 days of moving.

• File Form AR-11 online: https://www.uscis.gov/ar-11

• USCIS emphasized that this requirement is equally important as registration. It ensures timely receipt of crucial notices like: Biometrics appointments (ASC)， Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Interview notices.

Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance:

• Failure to register: Up to $1,000 fine or 6 months imprisonment, or both

• Failure to carry registration proof: Up to $100 fine or 30 days imprisonment, or both

• Failure to update address: Up to $200 fine or 30 days imprisonment, or both

Additional Reminders:

1. Registration does not guarantee protection from removal

• If your other immigration documents are missing, expired, or invalid, you may still be subject to removal proceedings.

2. USCIS correspondence must be carefully kept

• USCIS commonly sends important notices by mail, so it is essential to keep all correspondence properly stored.

• Make sure to update your address with USCIS in a timely manner to avoid missing any critical communications.

3. If you hold overlapping immigration statuses

• Make sure your current valid status is properly registered, and that you are carrying documentation matching that status.

• Although changing status (e.g., B1 to F1, or F1 to H-1B) typically does not require re-registration, you should verify whether previous fingerprinting or form submission satisfies the requirement.

4. Forgot to register or update address?

• Register or update as soon as possible.

• If you're concerned about past records, you can ask an immigration lawyer to file a FOIA request to access your immigration history.

5. If approached by immigration officers

• If asked to present your documents, remain calm and cooperate in accordance with the law.

• If your identity documents are taken or confiscated, you have the right to request a written receipt or explanation. Be sure to keep a full record of all communications to support any future clarification or legal assistance.

6. If you’ve ever been denied a visa, overstayed, or had legal status issues

• USCIS may cross-check past records under the new registration enforcement. In such cases, consult an immigration attorney to assess your risks and prepare necessary explanations.

Under the strengthened alien registration system, maintaining lawful immigration status is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process of compliance. Always carry valid identity documents, promptly report any address changes to USCIS, and carefully keep all official correspondence. Stay informed of policy updates — this is not only a legal obligation, but also a crucial step in protecting your safety and rights while living in the United States.

Reference: https://www.uscis.gov/alienregistration

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. For personalized guidance, please consult a qualified immigration attorney.