A new immigration rule from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now in effect. As of April 11, certain people living in the U.S. are required to register with the federal government — even if they’ve been here for years. I know it must be traumatic to register with the current U.S. Government and we are not encouraging all people to register. But those who have pending cases or plan on applying in the near future, should consider registering because if they don’t register, it will probably be held against them when they go to their interview.
If you’ve never had formal contact with immigration authorities, or if you entered the U.S. without a visa or official inspection, this rule may apply to you. In some cases, it also applies to children and dependents.
Do I Need to Register?
Not everyone needs to register — but if you’ve never had formal contact with immigration authorities, this new rule might apply to you.
You may need to register if:
- You entered the U.S. without a visa or inspection
- You came in through a land border (especially from Canada) and weren’t given any official paperwork
- You’ve never been fingerprinted or issued official immigration documents
- You’re in removal proceedings but were never formally registered
- You recently turned 14 and haven’t registered before
- You have a child under 14 who’s been in the U.S. for more than 30 days and hasn’t been registered
If you’ve applied for a green card or have a visa, a work permit (EAD), or a travel record (Form I-94), you’re likely already registered.
What the Registration Process Looks Like
You’ll need to complete the registration process through a free USCIS online account. Here’s how it works:
- Create a USCIS Account
- Go to my.uscis.gov and create an individual account.
- Each person registering — including children — must have their own account. Parents or legal guardians should create and manage accounts for minors under 14.
- Fill Out Form G-325R (Biographic Information)
- Once logged in, you’ll complete an online form called G-325R. This form asks for basic personal and background information, including:
- Full name, date of birth, and country of birth
- Current and past U.S. addresses (for the last five years)
- Immigration history and entry details
- Family information (parents, spouse)
- Employment history
- Any past arrests or criminal charges
- This form must be submitted online. You cannot mail it or complete it in person.
- Attend a Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
- USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center.
- This is where they’ll take your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
- Not everyone will be asked to attend — but if you are, you must go. Missing a scheduled appointment can result in penalties.
- Download Your Proof of Registration
- Once your registration is complete (and biometrics submitted, if required), USCIS will upload proof of registration to your online account.
- If you’re 18 or older, you must carry this document with you at all times.
What if I Don’t Register?
Skipping the registration process might seem like a small thing — but it could have serious consequences down the line.
If you’re required to register and don’t:
- You could be fined (up to $5,000)
- You might face misdemeanor charges or short-term jail time