What You Need to Know About USCIS’s New 2025 Registration Rule

What You Need to Know About USCIS’s New 2025 Registration Rule

As of April 11, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new policy requiring specific noncitizens living in the United States to formally register with the federal government—even if they’ve resided in the country for years.

This new rule applies particularly to individuals who have never had official contact with immigration authorities, including those who entered without a visa or inspection, and in some cases, their children or dependents.

Who Needs to Register?

Not everyone in the U.S. is required to register. However, you may fall under this requirement if:

• You entered the U.S. without inspection or a visa
• You crossed a land border (especially from Canada) without receiving official paperwork
• You are present in the U.S. under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), DACA, or another form of deferred action and never received a visa or I-94
• You have never been fingerprinted or issued any immigration documentation
• You are currently in removal proceedings but were never formally registered
• You recently turned 14 and have not yet registered
• You are the parent or guardian of a child under 14 who has been in the U.S. more than 30 days and is not yet registered

Those with valid visas, work permits (EAD), or a Form I-94 record are generally already considered registered. If you’re unsure, it’s recommended to log into your USCIS account or consult a qualified immigration attorney or legal representative.

How to Register

Registration must be completed through a USCIS online account. The process includes the following steps:

1. Create a USCIS Account
   Visit my.uscis.gov and open an individual account. Each person must have their own account—even minors. For children under 14, parents or guardians are responsible for setting up and managing the account.
2. Complete Form G-325R (Biographic Information)
   The online form collects details such as:
   • Full name, date of birth, and country of birth
   • Current and previous addresses (past five years)
   • Immigration history and entry information
   • Family background
   • Employment history
   • Any prior arrests or charges
3. This form must be submitted online only—paper or in-person submissions are not accepted.
4. Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
   Some applicants may be scheduled for a biometrics appointment, where USCIS collects fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. Attendance is mandatory if requested.
5. Proof of Registration
   Once registration is complete, USCIS will upload confirmation to your online account. Adults age 18 or older are required to carry this proof at all times.

Consequences of Not Registering

Failure to comply with this registration requirement can result in:

• Fines of up to $5,000
• Misdemeanor charges or short-term detention
• Delays or complications with future immigration applications
• Increased risk during enforcement actions

To avoid complications, individuals who may be affected are encouraged to register promptly.

Special Notes for Children

• Children under 14 who have lived in the U.S. for more than 30 days must be registered by a parent or legal guardian.
• Those turning 14 must register within 30 days of their birthday, even if they were previously listed as minors.

Where to Get Help

For those unsure about their status or the process, support is available:

• Find a Department of Justice-accredited representative: justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-roster 
• Contact local immigration nonprofits or community organizations

This new rule may seem daunting, particularly for those who have lived in the U.S. without official documentation. However, taking proactive steps to register can help safeguard your future and reduce potential legal risks.

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