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New Registration Requirement: What Immigrants Need to Know

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new registration process that may affect millions of immigrants currently living in the United States. This process, which goes into effect on April 11, 2025, will include an online system for certain immigrants to provide their information to DHS.

While compliance is important, we encourage individuals to stay informed and seek guidance to navigate these changes, as noncompliance could lead to civil or criminal penalties.

Who Must Register under the New Process?

The following groups are required to register with DHS under the new process:

All foreign nationals above the age of 14 who are not registered and have remained in the U.S. for 30 days or more.
Parents or legal guardians of unregistered children under 14 and have remained in the U.S. for 30 days or more.
Any foreign national who turns 14 while in the U.S. regardless of prior registration status. They must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday.
Canadians who traveled into the U.S. at a land port of entry without a visa, who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or more, and were not issued admission records (Form I-94)

Certain American Indians born in Canada and diplomatic officials (A or G visas) are not required to register.

Who is Registered Already?

The following noncitizens are considered registered and need not register under the new process:

Lawful permanent residents (including conditional permanent residents)
Individuals issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas prior to arriving in the U.S.
Nonimmigrants admitted to the U.S. who were issued arrival documents (Form I-94 or I-94W), paper or electronic, even if they overstayed
Nonimmigrants issued border crossing cards
Noncitizens paroled into the U.S. under INA § 212(d)(5), even if their parole period has expired
Individuals issued a work permit (including for DACA, TPS, and pending asylum applications)
Noncitizens placed in deportation proceedings (Order to Show Cause or Notice to Appear)
Applicants for adjustment of status (Form I-485) if they have been fingerprinted (unless waived)
Applicants who filed Form I-590, I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700, and I-817 and were fingerprinted (unless waived)

Also, if you have filed any of the following forms, you are already registered—provided you were fingerprinted (unless fingerprinting was waived):

Form I-485, Application for Status as Permanent Resident
Form I-590, Registration as a Refugee
Form I-687, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident
Form I-691, Notice of Approval for Status as a Temporary Resident
Form I-698, Application to Adjust Status from Temporary to Permanent Resident
Form I-700, Application for Status as Temporary Resident
Form I-817, Application for Voluntary Departure under the Family Unity Program
NEW – Form G-325R Registration

If you have filed an immigration form that is not listed above, you are not considered registered unless you were issued a valid work permit.

If you are unsure about your registration status, consult with an immigration attorney.

What Documents Prove That You Are Registered?

Registered noncitizens over 18 must carry proof of registration at all times. Acceptable documents include:

Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)
Arrival records including parolees under section 212(d)(5)- (Forms I-94, I-94W)
Valid admission or parole stamp in a foreign passport
Crewmen permits or ID cards (Forms I-95, I-184)
Border Crossing Cards (Forms I-185, I-186)
Notice of deportation proceedings (Form I-862, I-863, Form I-221)
NEW – Proof of registration through Form G-325R

How Do You Register Under the New Process?

If you are required to register, you must submit a registration form with USCIS and complete fingerprinting. However, the process is not yet in effect. Once it officially begins, these are the steps:

Create a USCIS online account (“MyUSCIS”) at USCIS.gov
Fill out and submit Form G-325R (the new registration form) through your online account, which is the new registration form
USCIS will schedule you for a fingerprint appointment (Biometrics Services Appointment)
After completing your fingerprints, download and print the proof of registration
Carry your proof of registration at all times to comply with the requirements and avoid penalties

Change of Address Requirements

The new rule also reinforces the requirement for all noncitizens to update their address with DHS within 10 days of moving. Failure to comply may result in civil or criminal penalties.

Updating your address with USCIS is quick and simple. You can do it online through your USCIS account or by submitting Form AR-11 by mail. Visit uscis.gov/addresschange for more information.

What Should Immigrants Do to Prepare?

With the new registration rule now officially published, it is crucial for noncitizens to understand whether they are already registered and what actions they may need to take.

Wait for the process to become effective–Check regularly for updates or changes about the registration process
Gather important documents—Prepare identification, past immigration records, and proof of registration.
Consult with an Attorney—Understanding who this policy applies to your specific situation is crucial. A legal professional can help avoid mistakes and ensure compliance with the new requirements.

If you are unsure of your status under these new rules, our team at Chavez & Valko is here to help.