Alien Registration Requirements for Foreigners

August 10, 2025

Starting April 11, 2025, some foreign nationals staying in the U.S. for 30 days or more must register with the U.S. government. A new registration form will be used to meet fingerprinting and registration rules under U.S. immigration law (INA). Not everyone needs to take action — it depends on whether you’ve already been registered and fingerprinted.

Who Must Register?

Foreign nationals age 14 or older:

• Must register if staying 30+ days and were not registered and fingerprinted when getting a visa.
• Must register within 30 days of entering the U.S.

Children under age 14:

• Parents/guardians must ensure registration within 30 days of entry if child stays 30+ days.

Children who turn 14 while in the U.S.:

• Must register within 30 days of turning 14, including fingerprinting.

 Who Is Exempt from This Rule?

• Holders of A or G visas (diplomats, government officials).
• American Indians born in Canada under INA section 289.
• Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas members under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act.
• U.S. citizens, including dual nationals.

Who Is Already Registered?

You are already registered if you fall into any of these categories:

• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
• Nonimmigrants issued Form I-94 or I-94W (paper or digital), even if stay has expired.
• Anyone who entered the U.S. with a valid visa.
• People paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5).
• Anyone in removal proceedings.
• Holders of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
• Applicants for permanent residence who submitted Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700, and provided fingerprints.
• Holders of Border Crossing Cards.

What Documents Count as Proof of Registration?

Forms that serve as registration evidence:

• Form I-94 – Arrival/Departure Record
• Form I-485 – Application for Permanent Residence
• Form I-67 – Inspection Record (for Hungarian refugees)
• Form I-95 – Crewmen’s Landing Permit
• Form I-181 – Record of Lawful Permanent Residence
• Form I-590 – Refugee-Escapee Registration
• Form I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700 – Various residency applications
• Form I-817 – Family Unity Program

If you have an I-94 number, you’re already registered and do not need to re-register unless you were never fingerprinted and recently turned 14.

How to Register (If Required)

1. Create a USCIS online account.
2. Complete Form G-325R (Biographic Information – Registration) online only.
   • No paper submissions or in-person filings allowed.
3. If USCIS determines you’re already registered, you’ll be notified.
4. If you need to provide fingerprints, USCIS will schedule a biometric appointment.
5. After registration and (if needed) fingerprinting:
   • You’ll receive proof of registration (G-325R Receipt) in your USCIS account.
   • Foreign nationals age 18+ must carry this proof at all times.

Change of Address Requirement

• You must notify DHS in writing of every address change within 10 days of moving.

Penalties for Not Complying

1. Failing to register or fingerprint (if required):
   • Up to $5,000 fine, 6 months in prison, or both.
   • Applies to parents/guardians failing to register children under 14.
2. Fraudulent registration:
3. Not carrying registration proof (age 18+):
   • Up to $5,000 fine, 30 days in prison, or both.
4. Not reporting address change within 10 days:
   • Also a misdemeanor; may lead to deportation unless excused.

For more updates and Immigration news, contact Bailey Immigration for free consultation at 503-224-0950.