As of Friday, new federal regulations mandate that all foreign nationals living in the United States must register with the government and carry proof of their legal immigration status at all times. The policy follows an executive order issued by President Donald Trump titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion.”
Announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and implemented through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the new rule applies to all non-citizens aged 18 and older, including those residing legally in the U.S., such as Green Card holders, students, workers, and other visa holders.
According to USCIS, once an individual has registered and undergone fingerprinting (unless exempted), they will be issued proof of registration, which they are required to carry at all times. Failure to comply may result in both civil and criminal penalties, including fines, misdemeanor charges, or imprisonment.
“Many foreign nationals have already registered under existing laws, but a significant number have not had a direct mechanism to fulfill their obligation under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA),” the USCIS said in a statement dated March 21.
Under the new rules:
- All non-citizens in the U.S. for 30 days or more must register using the newly introduced Form G-325R for Biometric Information.
- Individuals who have not previously submitted fingerprints must now appear in person for biometric processing.
- Parents or legal guardians are responsible for ensuring that children under 14 are registered. Upon turning 14, minors must apply for re-registration and undergo fingerprinting within 30 days.
- Law enforcement officials, including traffic police, are now authorized to request proof of registration from non-citizens.
The rule also applies to Canadians staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days, unless they already possess an I-94 admission record. Those entering by land or ferry must ensure they receive the document, which costs $6 and can be requested in advance at a land port of entry or via the CBP One mobile app.
The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has acknowledged the regulation and urged its members and clients to stay informed. “Non-immigrant parents must ensure that their children register and complete fingerprinting by their 14th birthday,” the organization emphasized.
This rule marks a significant enforcement step toward fully implementing longstanding provisions of the INA that, until now, lacked comprehensive oversight.
