Understanding the Alien Registration Requirement in 2025: What You Need to Know

On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14159, titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.” One key part of this order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce a law that’s actually been on the books for a long time: the Alien Registration requirement under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

What Is the Alien Registration Requirement?

The Alien Registration requirement is not new. It’s part of a federal law that says most non-U.S. citizens (called “aliens” under U.S. immigration law) who are in the United States for more than 30 days must register with the U.S. government.

This includes providing basic personal information and biometric data like fingerprints. Once registered, they’re issued a document showing they’ve complied with the law.

Who Needs to Register?

Generally, the requirement applies to anyone who is not a U.S. citizen and is 14 years old or older, if:

• They did not register and get fingerprinted when applying for a U.S. visa,
• And they remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer.

For children under 14, their parents or legal guardians are responsible for making sure they are registered. And once a child turns 14, they must re-register and be fingerprinted within 30 days of their birthday.

What Happens After You Register?

Once you register (and are fingerprinted if required), DHS will issue you proof of registration. If you’re 18 or older, the law says you must carry this proof with you at all times.

That might sound strict, but it’s similar to how U.S. citizens carry a driver’s license or ID card. It’s a way for the government to confirm who has complied with the registration laws.

What Happens if You Don’t Register?

If someone is required to register and doesn’t do it, there can be serious consequences. These include:

• Fines up to $5,000,
• Up to 30 days in jail, or
• Both.

Not registering can also lead to immigration consequences, like being placed in removal (deportation) proceedings.

Who Is Already Registered?

You may already be registered if you’ve had previous contact with U.S. immigration and provided your fingerprints. Examples include:

• Green Card holders (lawful permanent residents),
• People who entered with a visa or Border Crossing Card,
• People who were paroled into the U.S., even if their parole has expired,
• People who have been in removal proceedings,
• Those issued an Employment Authorization Document (EAD),
• And people who applied for a green card (Form I-485) or similar forms and gave fingerprints.

In short, if you’ve already gone through a formal immigration process where fingerprints were taken, you’ve probably fulfilled the registration requirement.

Who Is NOT Registered?

You may not be registered if:

• You entered the U.S. without inspection (i.e., crossed the border without going through immigration),
• You’re a Canadian visitor who entered at a land border and didn’t receive a registration document,
• You applied for certain immigration benefits (like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or deferred action) without getting fingerprinted or a registration document.

If any of this sounds like your situation, consult with an immigration attorney.

New Form and Online Registration Process

To help people comply with the law, USCIS has created a new form called Form G-325R, Biometric Information (Registration). This form can be filled out online, making it easier to register if you haven’t already done so.

Important: Registering does not give you legal status in the U.S. It does not give you a work permit, immigration benefits, or protection from removal. It is simply a way to fulfill the legal requirement to register your presence in the country.

Carrying Proof of Registration

If you’re 18 or older and required to register, you must carry your registration document with you at all times. Not doing so is a misdemeanor under U.S. law.

This means you could face:

• A fine of up to $5,000,
• Up to 30 days in jail, or
• Both, for each offense.

Don’t Forget to Update Your Address

If you move, you must tell USCIS your new address within 10 days. The easiest way to do this is through your USCIS online account or go to .

Failing to update your address can also result in:

• Fines or jail time, and
• Possible deportation, unless you can prove the failure was excusable or not intentional.

Avoid Scams

Unfortunately, whenever immigration laws change or enforcement increases, scams often pop up. Be careful who you trust for legal advice. Only a licensed attorney or an accredited representative with a DOJ-recognized organization can give you legal advice.

If someone claims they can help for a fee but isn’t qualified, walk away. Visit the official USCIS “Avoid Scams” page for tips on how to protect yourself.

This article is provided as an educational service and is not legal advice. Consult with an attorney for your specific circumstances.  For a comprehensive evaluation of your immigration situation and options, you are invited to call us at 214-494-8033, text us using our chat box, or complete our contact form.