Did you hear about the new alien registration requirement but have no idea what it means or what you need to do? You’re not alone, and we’re here to explain it clearly.
What Happened?
On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order requiring certain immigrants to register their presence in the United States with the federal government. This is part of the response to the ongoing border crisis.
Who Needs to Register?
Anyone who:
- Is 14 years or older, and
- Entered the U.S. without a visa, and
- Has been in the U.S. for more than 30 days
If this is you, you are required to register.
What Does Registration Involve?
- Attending a biometrics appointment (fingerprints)
- Completing the registration form (details are still pending from the government)
What Happens If You Don’t Register?
The government states that failure to register can result in criminal and civil penalties, including:
- Fines
- Misdemeanor charges
This is one of the first times an immigration rule carries criminal consequences simply for non-compliance.
Who Does NOT Need to Worry?
If you are already in one of the following categories, you are already registered:
- Green card holders (Legal Permanent Residents)
- Paroled individuals (even if parole expired)
- Non-immigrants with an I-94, even if expired
- Visa holders (immigrant or non-immigrant)
- People in removal (deportation) proceedings
- Work permit holders (EAD)
- Pending green card applicants
- Border Crossing Card holders
How to Register?
The government has not finalized the details yet. It’s expected to be an online application, but details are still developing. The requirement started on February 25, 2025, but the exact steps are not yet fully released.
