Overview

A new U.S. immigration requirement is now being actively implemented. Commonly referred to as the Immigrant Registration Rule, it mandates that most non-citizens must register with the U.S. government within 30 days of entering the country, and report any address change within 10 days.

This rule officially came into effect on April 11, 2025, following a federal court decision on April 10 that upheld the government’s authority to enforce the requirement. If you're an immigrant or planning to move to the United States, this rule could apply to you.

In this blog post, we explain what the Immigration Registration Rule is, who it applies to, and how to register.

What Is The Alien Registration Rule and How to Complete It

Alien registration simply means notifying the government about your presence in the U.S. and providing basic information — whether you’re here on a visa, working, or applying for a green card.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

Who needs to register and when? If you’re a non-citizen in the U.S., this includes visa holders, undocumented individuals, asylum seekers, and individuals applying for a green card.

• All foreign nationals 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U.S. visa or at the time of admission into the United States, and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer. Such individuals must apply before the expiration of those 30 days.
• Parents and legal guardians of aliens less than 14 years of age, if the aliens remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, prior to the expiration of those 30 days.
• Any alien, even if previously registered, who turns 14 years old while in the United States, within 30 days after their 14th birthday.
• Aliens who are present in the United States without inspection and admission or inspection and parole.
• Canadian visitors who entered the United States at land ports of entry and were not issued evidence of registration.
• Aliens who submitted one or more benefit requests to USCIS (including Form I-485, I-589, or TPS), who were not issued evidence of registration.

Who is already registered? Foreign nationals who have already registered include:

• Greencard Holders / Lawful Permanent Residents
• Foreign nationals paroled into the United States under 212(d)(5), even if the parole has expired
• Aliens admitted to the United States as nonimmigration who were issued a Form I-94 or I-94W
• Aliens present in the United States who were issued immigrant or nonimmigrant visas prior to arrival
• Aliens whom DHS has placed into removal proceedings
• Aliens issued EAD cards
• Aliens who applied for permanent residency using Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, I-700, even if the applications were denied
• Aliens issued Border Crossing Cards

What happens if you don’t register?

Not following the rule could lead to problems with your immigration status. These might include:

• Delays in getting a green card or visa approved
• Trouble renewing your status or applying for benefits
• Missing important mail from USCIS
• In some cases, removal (deportation) proceedings

The government hasn’t said exactly how strictly or quickly enforcement will happen, but it’s clear they’re treating this rule seriously.

How to Register: Step-By-Step

Step 1: Set Up a USCIS Online Account

Start by visiting my.uscis.gov and creating a personal account.

• Each person must have their own individual account — including children.
• For minors under 14, a parent or legal guardian should create and manage the account on their behalf.

Step 2: Complete the Online Registration Form (Form G-325R)

Once you’re logged in, you’ll be prompted to fill out Form G-325R, a biographic information form required for registration.

You’ll be asked to provide:

• Your full legal name, date of birth, and country of birth
• Your current U.S. address and any past addresses from the last 5 years
• Details about your entry into the U.S. (when, where, how)
• Information about your immigration status and travel history
• Names of family members (like parents, spouse, children)
• Your work and education background
• Any criminal history, including past arrests or charges (if applicable)

Immigration: This form is only available online — you cannot print or mail it, and there’s no in-person filing option.

Step 3: Attend Biometrics Appointment (if needed)

After you submit your form, USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment. At the appointment, USCIS will take your photo, fingerprints, and signature.

Not everyone will need to attend a biometrics appointment — but if USCIS requires it, missing it could delay your registration or impact your status.

Step 4: Get Your Proof of Registration

Once everything is complete — and you’ve submitted biometrics if required — you should be able to download a digital proof of registration document.

Immigration: If you’re 18 or older, you are expected to carry evidence of registration with you, as required by U.S. immigration law.

Take the First Step:

• Request an evaluation
• Discuss the visa options of interest to you
• General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options
• Information on Keller fees, terms and process
• Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request a consultation