New Department of Homeland Security Registration Rules: What You Need to Know

On March 12, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published interim regulations that significantly reshape how certain non-citizens must register their presence in the United States. These changes took effect on April 11, 2025. The rules are currently subject to litigation by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), the American Immigration Council, and other advocacy groups. Learn more about the lawsuit here.

Who is Required to Register Under the New Registration Rules?

If you are a non-U.S. citizen and do not fall under an exemption, you may be required to register using USCIS Form G-325R. The registration process includes submitting personal and immigration information—and in many cases, attending a USCIS biometrics appointment.

You may be required to register if:

• You entered the U.S. without inspection and have not previously registered
• You have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days without having registered
• You are a Canadian national who entered through a land port of entry and were not issued a Form I-94
• You are a non-citizen who turned 14 years old in the U.S. and haven’t yet registered (must do so within 30 days of your birthday)
• You submitted a benefit request not listed in 8 CFR 264.1(a), such as applications for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Action, and were not issued documentation listed in 8 CFR 264.1(b)

Not sure if this applies to you? USCIS offers this online tool.  You may also  schedule a consultation with our immigration attorneys.

Who Is Exempt from USCIS Form G-325R Registration?

You are exempt from the new registration requirements if you are:

• A U.S. citizen (including by birth, naturalization, and acquisition)
• A visa holder previously fingerprinted during the visa process (if required)
• A G visa holder (diplomatic/official representative)
• A visitor in the U.S. for fewer than 30 days
• An American Indian born in Canada with eligibility under 8 USC 1359

Who Is Already Registered with USCIS?

The following individuals are considered already registered and do not need to file Form G-325R:

• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
• Individuals paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), even if parole has expired
• Individuals present in the U.S. who were issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas before their date of last arrival to the U.S.
• Individuals in removal proceedings
• Applicants who filed Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700 and provided fingerprints (unless waived), even if the applications were denied
• Individuals issued employment authorization documents
• Border Crossing Card holders

Penalties for Failing to Register with USCIS

Failure to register or carry proof of registration as required can lead to serious legal consequences. According to USCIS, anyone age 18 or older who fails to carry registration documents may be:

• Fined up to $5,000
• Sentenced to up to 30 days in jail
• Found inadmissible or removable from the United States due to noncompliance or fraud

Additionally, all individuals required to register must update their address with USCIS within 10 days of moving. Submit address changes at uscis.gov/ar-11.

How to Register Using USCIS Form G-325R

Follow these steps to register online:

1. Create or log into your USCIS account at myUSCIS
2. Complete Form G-325R, providing all required biographic and immigration information
3. Attend a biometrics appointment, if requested
4. Download and save your Proof of Registration from your account

What Counts as Proof of Registration?

If you are 18 years or older, U.S. law requires you to carry one of the following documents as proof of registration:

• Form I-94 (nonimmigrants)
• Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card/Green Card)
• Form I-766 (EAD card)
• Form I-186 (Border Crossing Card)
• Form I-862 (Notice to Appear)
• Form G-325R confirmation notice (digital or printed copy)

Take Action Now

1. Check your immigration status to determine if you must register
2. Register online if you are subject to the new rule
3. Carry your proof of registration at all times
4. Report address changes within 10 days
5. Request a free Know Your Rights card to protect yourself during immigration encounters

Need help? Contact Delgado Rompf Bruen LLC at 312-216-5116 or request a consultation. Our experienced immigration attorneys are ready to guide you through the process and make sure you are fully informed about the requirements.