U.S. law requires most noncitizens who stay in the United States for 30 days or longer to register with the government and be fingerprinted. For decades, most people met this requirement automatically when they received a visa, an I-94 or a green card. Since April 11, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also required people who were never registered, including many who entered without inspection, to register using Form G-325R. This guide explains who must register, who is already registered, how to do it, and the risks to discuss with a lawyer first.
What Is the Alien Registration Requirement?
The requirement comes from the Alien Registration Act of 1940, now part of the Immigration and Nationality Act. It has three parts:
- Registration and fingerprinting for noncitizens aged 14 and older who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. Parents and guardians must register children under 14, and children must re-register and be fingerprinted within 30 days after turning 14.
- Carrying proof of registration. Noncitizens aged 18 and older must carry their proof of registration with them at all times.
- Reporting address changes to USCIS within 10 days of moving, usually with Form AR-11 or online.
Who Is Already Registered?
You do not need to file Form G-325R if you are already registered. According to USCIS, this includes:
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
- People admitted as nonimmigrants who were issued an I-94 or I-94W, even if their admission period has expired.
- People who were issued an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa before their last arrival.
- People paroled into the U.S., even if their parole has expired.
- People who have been issued an employment authorization document (work permit).
- People whom DHS has placed in removal proceedings.
- People who applied for a green card and gave fingerprints, even if the application was denied.
- Holders of Border Crossing Cards.
U.S. citizens never need to register.
Who Must Register Now?
The groups most affected are:
- People who entered without inspection and have never been registered through any of the documents above.
- Canadian visitors who entered at a land border without receiving an I-94 and who stay 30 days or longer, such as winter visitors.
- Some people who applied for other immigration benefits but never received a document that counts as registration.
- Children who were never registered, and registered children turning 14.
How to Register With Form G-325R
- Create a USCIS online account. Each person needs their own account, including children under 14, whose parent or guardian creates it in the child’s name.
- File Form G-325R online. There is no paper version and no filing fee.
- Attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, if required.
- Download your proof of registration from your USCIS account and carry it with you if you are 18 or older.
Penalties for Not Registering
- Failing to register is a federal misdemeanor that can be punished with a fine and up to six months in jail. DHS has said it will prosecute people who do not comply.
- Failing to carry proof of registration is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine and up to 30 days in jail.
- Failing to report a change of address is a misdemeanor and can also make a noncitizen deportable unless they show the failure was not willful.
Has the Requirement Been Challenged in Court?
Yes. Immigrant rights groups sued to stop the rule, but in April 2025 a federal judge in Washington, D.C. declined to block it on procedural grounds, and the requirement took effect on April 11, 2025. The case was appealed, and the appeals court heard argument in December 2025. Unless a court rules otherwise, the requirement remains in effect.
Talk to a Lawyer Before You Register
For people who are in the U.S. without lawful status, registering gives DHS your name, address and fingerprints, and the form asks about your immigration history and any criminal history. Not registering can also lead to criminal charges. Because both choices carry risk, speak with an immigration attorney before you file. An attorney can also check whether you are already registered, and whether you may qualify for a way to obtain lawful status. If you are facing removal, see our deportation defense page.
BCA Law Firm offers consultations online and at our office in Norcross, Georgia. Contact us to schedule one, and see how to prepare for your consultation.
