DHS Introduces Mandatory Alien Registration Rule

On March 12, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published an Interim Final Rule (IFR) introducing a standardized alien registration process through a new form: Form G-325R, Biographic Information (Registration).Please review the summary below carefully and consult your attorney if any of the provisions apply to you or your family.

✅ Who is already registered?

You are already registered if one of the following applies to you. 

• You were issued any document listed as evidence of registration under 8 CFR 264.1(b), such as a Form I-94, green card, or EAD.

• You submitted a form listed under 8 CFR 264.1(a) (like Form I-485) and provided fingerprints (unless waived), even if your application was denied. 

This includes:

• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)

• Aliens paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), even if parole expired

• Nonimmigrants who entered the U.S. and were issued a Form I-94 or I-94W

• Anyone who entered with an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa

• Aliens placed in removal proceedings

• Aliens with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

• Applicants for green cards using forms like I-485, I-687, I-698, etc., who gave fingerprints

• Holders of Border Crossing Cards

📌 Who Is Required to Register? 

• All aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a visa to enter the United States and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer. They must apply before the expiration of those 30 days;

• The parents or legal guardians of aliens less than 14 years of age: Parents or legal guardians must apply for the registration of aliens less than 14 years of age who have not been registered and remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, before the expiration of those 30 days; and

• Any alien, whether previously registered or not, who turns 14 years old in the United States, within 30 days after their 14th birthday.

📌 How Do You Register? 

1. Create a myUSCIS account at https://my.uscis.gov

2. Complete Form G-325R (currently no filing fee).

3. USCIS will schedule a Biometrics Appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC).

4. You must attend the appointment to provide fingerprints, photo, and signature.

5. After successful submission, you’ll receive a digital Proof of Alien Registration with a unique identifier—downloadable from your myUSCIS account.

   
   

📌 Who Must Carry Proof of Registration at All Times? 

All registered noncitizens aged 18 or older must carry proof of registration at all times.Acceptable documents include:

• Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)

• Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)

• Arrival/Departure Record (Form I-94), and others listed under 8 CFR 264.1(b)

⚠️ Penalties for Noncompliance 

1. Failure to register or submit fingerprints: Up to $5,000 in fines, six months of imprisonment, or both.

2. Failure to carry registration document (age 18+): Misdemeanor, subject to up to $5,000 fine, 30 days imprisonment, or both.

3. Failure to update change of address within 10 days: May result in removal proceedings, unless the failure is excused as unintentional or reasonably justifiable.

🗓️ Effective Dates & What You Should Do

Rule becomes effective: April 11, 2025While Form G-325R is currently free, DHS is considering a $30 biometric services fee in the future.

If you’re unsure whether you’re considered “registered,” or believe you may fall under this rule, consult us immediately. Failing to comply with these new requirements can have serious immigration and legal consequences.We’re here to help ensure your legal compliance and protect your immigration status. Contact our firm for guidance or assistance with immigrant issues.