USCIS Alien Registration Requirement: What You Need to Know
by Hasan Alaz, Esq., Founding Attorney
USCIS Alien Registration Requirement: What You Need to Know
Recently, a wave of alarming posts on social media has caused confusion about the USCIS Alien Registration Requirement. Many are unsure if they need to take immediate action. At Alaz Law Firm, we want to provide clear, fact-based guidance.
What Changed?
On Jan. 20, 2025, Executive Order 14159 directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This section requires certain noncitizens to register with the U.S. government. In response, USCIS launched a new process, including a form (G-325R) and an online tool to help people understand if they are required to register.
Who Must Register?
You must register if:
- You are 14 or older, AND
- You were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a U.S. visa, AND
- You are staying in the U.S. for 30 days or more
Also:
- Parents or legal guardians must register children under 14 who meet these criteria.
- Individuals who turn 14 while in the U.S. must register within 30 days of their birthday.
Failure to register may result in civil or criminal penalties, including fines or jail time.
Who Is Already Registered?
Many noncitizens are already in compliance. If you:
- Have a valid visa, I-94, employment authorization, or
- Applied for adjustment of status and were fingerprinted, or
- Are in removal proceedings,
then you are most likely already registered.
How to Check If You Need to Register
USCIS provides a simple Alien Registration Requirement (ARR) Determination Tool on their website. It asks a few quick questions and lets you know whether you need to register. The tool is:
- Free to use
- Anonymous
- Takes less than 1 minute to complete
How to Register (If Required)
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Create a USCIS Online Account |
| 2 | Submit Form G-325R (Biographic Information) |
| 3 | Attend biometrics appointment (if required) |
| 4 | Receive proof of registration in your USCIS account |
| 5 | Carry proof at all times if you are age 18 or older |
USCIS will notify you if they determine that you are already registered, and no further action is needed.
Common Questions
What if I’ve already applied for a visa or green card?
If you were fingerprinted or received documentation like a Form I-94, you are likely already registered.
What happens if I don’t register?
Failure to comply can result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $5,000, and/or up to 6 months in jail.
Does registration give me immigration status?
No. Registration does not give you legal status or immigration benefits. It’s just a compliance requirement under the law.
Key Takeaways
- Not everyone needs to register – check with the USCIS tool first.
- Most people with visas or pending applications are already compliant.
- If you do need to register, the process is simple and done online.
- Do not ignore this requirement if it applies to you – there are legal consequences.
Need help understanding your obligations? Contact our office today for a consultation.
Phone: +1 (469) 949-4646
Email: info@alazlaw.com
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal guidance, please contact our office directly.