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June 19, 2025

Alien Registration Requirements Under the Trump Administration

Immigration law in the U.S. can be confusing. And when new rules are introduced, or old ones start being enforced, it can be overwhelming. If you’re a noncitizen living in the United States, you may have heard that the Trump administration began enforcing the Alien Registration Act as of April 11, 2025. But what exactly does that mean for you?

What Is Alien Registration?

Alien registration isn’t new. In fact, it dates back to 1940 with the Alien Registration Act. The law says that any noncitizen age 14 or older who plans to be in the U.S. for 30 days or more must be registered and fingerprinted. Adults 18 and over must also carry proof of their registration at all times.

For many years, this rule existed mostly on paper. However, it is not being strictly enforced.

Under the Trump administration, the government began actively requiring compliance with this law. If you’re in the U.S. without proper documentation, or if you entered legally but didn’t get registered automatically, you may now need to register online using a new form called G-325R.

Who Has to Register?

The registration requirement applies to a wide range of noncitizens, especially those who might not have been formally documented before.

Here’s who must register under this policy:

Foreign nationals in the U.S. for 30 days or more

If you’re here for more than a short trip, the law says you need to register, even if you’re here on a tourist or visitor visa.

Canadians who entered at land borders and didn’t get an I-94

Unlike air travelers, many Canadians entering by land don’t automatically receive documentation of their stay. If you didn’t get an I-94 or similar record, you’re expected to register.

People who entered without inspection or parole

If you crossed the border without going through formal immigration procedures and haven’t been encountered by DHS or issued registration documents, you need to register.

Children who turn 14 while in the U.S.

Once a child reaches age 14, they have 30 days to register. If they’re abroad on their birthday, they must register within 30 days of returning.

Parents and guardians are responsible for making sure minors comply with this rule.

What If You’re Undocumented?

If you entered the U.S. without inspection and haven’t been issued a registration document (like an I-94, I-766, etc.), the new policy says you must register within 30 days of entry. But here’s the important part:

Registering does not give you legal status and may even place you at risk for immigration enforcement, including being placed in removal proceedings.

It’s a catch-22. You’re required to register, but doing so might expose you to deportation.

If you’re undocumented or unsure of your status, talk to a trusted immigration attorney before registering. Understanding your rights and options is critical.

Who’s Already Registered?

You might be wondering, “Do I really need to do anything? Maybe I’m already registered?” Good question.

Here’s who is already considered registered:

• Green card holders (lawful permanent residents)
• People issued an I-94 or I-94W, even if expired
• Anyone paroled into the U.S. under INA §212(d)(5), regardless of expiration
• Visa holders who entered legally on immigrant or nonimmigrant visas
• People in removal proceedings
• People with valid work authorization (EAD card)
• Those granted voluntary departure by DHS

If you fall into one of those categories, you’re most likely already in compliance.

Who’s Exempt?

There are also some clear exemptions. You do not need to register if:

• You’re a U.S. citizen
• You’re a visa holder who has already been fingerprinted during your visa application
• You’re a diplomat or on an A or G visa
• You’re in the U.S. for less than 30 days
• You’re an American Indian born in Canada with at least 50% Native American blood under 8 U.S.C. §1359
• You’ve applied for a green card and provided fingerprints, even if your application was denied

Still not sure where you fall? Reach out to our attorneys for guidance.

How to Register: The G-325R Form

If you’ve determined you need to register, here’s how the process works.

Step 1: Create a USCIS Online Account

Visit https://myaccount.uscis.gov/create-account and sign up for a free account.

Step 2: Complete Form G-325R

This is the new online Biometrics Registration Form. You’ll be asked to provide:

• Your full legal name
• Contact info
• Your U.S. address and address history (last 5 years)
• Your immigration and travel history
• Biographic and family information
• Criminal history, if applicable

You must sign the form under oath and authorize the government to pull your records.

Step 3: Attend a Biometrics Appointment

Once you submit the form, you’ll be scheduled to visit a USCIS Application Support Center to provide fingerprints, a photo, and sign a sworn statement.

Step 4: Get Your Proof of Registration

After USCIS completes a background check, you’ll receive your Proof of Alien Registration in your online account.

What Counts as Proof of Registration?

According to DHS and 8 CFR §264.1(b), here are documents that count:

• I-94 or I-94W (even if expired)
• I-766 (Employment Authorization Document)
• I-551 (Green Card)
• I-862 (Notice to Appear)
• I-95, I-184, I-185, I-186 (for crew and border crossers)
• Parole stamp in your passport
• Order to Show Cause or deportation-related documents

Even if your I-94 or EAD is expired, it still counts as proof of registration.

Do You Have to Register After Every Trip to the U.S.?

If you already have an I-94, I-94W, or another qualifying registration document, you don’t have to re-register each time you re-enter the U.S., even if your I-94 is expired.

The rule is tied to your current stay of 30 days or more. But it’s still wise to talk to a lawyer if you’re unsure, especially if you’ve re-entered recently or were admitted at a land border.

What Happens If You Don’t Register or Carry Proof?

The law includes penalties for failing to register or carry proof.

Failing to Register:

• Misdemeanor offense
• Up to $5,000 fine
• Up to 6 months in jail

Failing to Carry Proof (age 18+):

• Fine of up to $5,000
• Up to 30 days in jail

There’s also a separate criminal charge for registering with false documents.

Plus, if you later apply for a visa or green card, failure to register can be used against you.

You Still Have Rights

Even under stricter immigration enforcement, you still have basic constitutional rights. For example:

• You have the right to remain silent
• You have the right to speak with an attorney if detained
• You don’t have to answer questions about your immigration status in public

Don’t Forget to Report Address Changes

One last thing: If you move, you must update your address with USCIS within 10 days. Failing to do so can lead to:

• Fines up to $5,000
• Up to 30 days in jail
• Potential removal (deportation)

Update your address here: https://www.uscis.gov/addresschange

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer About Alien Registration

The alien registration rules can be confusing. And for many people, compliance may carry legal risks. That’s why we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney before submitting Form G-325R or taking any action.

If you’re unsure whether you’re required to register, or you’re worried about what registering might mean for your immigration case, contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation with our immigration attorneys. We’re here to help you understand your options and protect your future.