Understanding the Alien Registration Requirements
What's Alien Registration?
A 1940 law requires foreign nationals aged 14 and older to register and be fingerprinted if they stay in the U.S. for 30 days or more.
Foreign nationals aged 18 and older must always carry proof of registration.
Who Needs to Register?
Noncitizens who enter the U.S. and plan to stay for 30 days or longer after April 11, 2025.
Canadians who entered the U.S. at land ports of entry without registration evidence.
Noncitizens who entered the U.S. without inspection and don't have a registration document.
Noncitizen children who turn 14 years old while in the U.S. must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday.
What If You Are Undocumented?
Undocumented individuals must register within 30 days of entry.
Registering doesn't grant legal status and may lead to detention and removal proceedings.
Consult an immigration attorney before registering.
Who Is Already Registered?
Lawful permanent residents.
People paroled into the U.S. under INA §212(d)(5).
People admitted as nonimmigrants with Form I-94 or I-94W.
People issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas before their last arrival.
People placed into removal proceedings.
People issued an Employment Authorization Document (I-766).
Who Is Exempt?
U.S. citizens.
Visa holders already registered and fingerprinted through their visa application.
Those in the U.S. for less than 30 days.
How to Register?
Create an online USCIS account.
Complete and submit Form G-325R.
Attend a biometrics appointment.
Receive proof of alien registration document.
What Happens If You Don’t Register or Carry Proof?
Noncitizens aged 18 and older must carry proof at all times.
Failure to register or carry proof can result in fines or imprisonment.
Consult an immigration lawyer for advice.
Change of Address Requirement
Notify USCIS of a new address within 10 days of moving by filing Form AR-11.