On June 29, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a Final Rule that confirms and refines the regulatory framework governing the long-standing alien registration requirement. Although this requirement has existed under U.S. immigration law for many years, DHS introduced an online registration process in 2025 to strengthen enforcement. The Final Rule makes that process permanent and provides greater clarity on how the existing registration requirements should be applied.

What Is the Alien Registration Requirement?

The alien registration requirement is a long-standing legal requirement under U.S. immigration law that requires most non-citizens in the United States to register with the federal government. This generally involves providing basic biographic information and, in many cases, fingerprints, so that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has an official record of their presence in the country.

Background: Why Was the Final Rule Issued?

To strengthen enforcement of the existing registration requirement, DHS introduced an online registration process through an Interim Final Rule in 2025 for individuals who were not already considered registered.

On June 29, 2026, DHS issued the Final Rule, formally adopting that framework. The rule makes the online registration process permanent, updates certain registration procedures, and clarifies aspects of the existing requirements. It does not expand who must register or create new registration obligations but provides greater regulatory clarity for foreign nationals and employers.

Which Law Requires Alien Registration?

The alien registration requirement is established under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). To help individuals who are not already considered registered comply with this requirement, USCIS introduced Form G-325R and an online registration system in 2025.

Who Is Required to Register?

The Final Rule does not change who is required to register but clarifies the existing registration requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). You need to register if you

• Are 14 years old or older;
• Were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U.S. visa; and
• Remain in the United States for 30 days or longer for each period of stay

Adults (14 Years and Older) – Registration Requirements

Foreign nationals who are 14 years of age or older must register if they have not previously completed the required registration process with the U.S. government. If fingerprinting is required as part of that process, they must also complete it. This requirement applies to individuals who intend to remain in the United States for 30 days or longer.

Individuals who are required to register must submit Form G-325R (Biographic Information – Registration) through their USCIS online account.

Children Under 14 – Parent or Guardian Responsibilities

Children under 14 years who were issued an immigrant visa or nonimmigrant visa before their admission to the United States are considered registered. Children under 14 years of age who are required to register must have the registration completed by their parent or legal guardian. The parent or guardian is responsible for submitting the required information on the child’s behalf.

Turning 14 in the U.S. – Re-Registration Requirements

Children who were previously registered before turning 14 must re-register if they turn 14 while in the United States and will remain in the country for 30 days or more. They must complete the registration process, including fingerprinting if required, within 30 days of their 14th birthday.

Proof of Registration

Aliens over the age of 18 must carry proof of their registration at all times. Failure to do so is a criminal offence and punishable by a fine or imprisonment or both.

Who Has Already Satisfied the Registration Requirement?

Many foreign nationals have already met the alien registration requirement through their existing immigration or admission process. If you fall into one of the categories below, you are generally not required to complete a separate registration using Form G-325R.

Most foreign nationals admitted to the U.S. are issued a Form I-94 upon entry, which generally satisfies the registration requirement – read our guide on Form I-94 for Foreign Nationals to understand how this document works and how to access your record

Visa Holders, Green Card Holders & Parolees

You are generally considered to have already satisfied the registration requirement if you:

• Were admitted to the United States with a valid immigrant or nonimmigrant visa.
• Were issued a Form I-94, I-94A, or I-94W (paper or electronic) upon admission.
• Are a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder).
• Were paroled into the United States, even if your parole has since expired.
• Were placed in removal proceedings, received an expedited removal order, or had a previous removal order reinstated.
• Were issued an employment authorization document;
• Have applied for lawful permanent residence (Adjustment of Status), and provided fingerprints (unless waived), even if the applications were denied; and
• Were issued a Border Crossing Card
• Were last admitted to the United States through one of the Trusted Traveler Programs – NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST, or Global Entry

Employment Authorization and Border Crossing Card Holders

You are also generally considered to have already satisfied the registration requirement if you:

• Were issued an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or another immigration benefit that required registration and fingerprinting.
• Hold a Border Crossing Card, as the application process includes registration and fingerprinting requirements.

Please Note: Even if you have already satisfied the registration requirement, you must continue to comply with other applicable U.S. immigration obligations, including carrying proof of registration (where required) and reporting any change of address to USCIS.

Who Is Exempt from the Alien Registration Requirement?

The following individuals are generally not required to register under the alien registration requirement:

• U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals.
• Foreign nationals who are outside the United States.
• Foreign nationals staying in the United States for fewer than 30 days.
• Visa holders who have already been registered and fingerprinted through their application for a visa (unless they are required to re-register after turning 14).
• Foreign diplomats, consular officers, and certain representatives of international organizations holding qualifying visa classifications (A and G visa holders).
• American Indians born in Canada who were admitted under Section 289 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
• Members of the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas admitted under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act.

How to Register — Step-by-Step Process

If you determine that you need to register, the process is completed online through the USCIS website.

Creating a USCIS Online Account: The first step is to create a USCIS online account. Every individual who needs to register must have their own account. For children under 14, a parent or legal guardian must create and manage the account on the child’s behalf.

Completing Form G-325R and Biometrics: After creating an online account, complete and submit Form G-325R, Biographic Information (Registration) electronically through the USCIS website. USCIS will review the information and, if required, schedule a biometric services appointment for fingerprinting and a photograph. Once the registration process is complete, proof of registration will be made available through the individual’s USCIS online account.

Note that USCIS has also introduced enhanced biometric vetting procedures in 2026 that may affect processing timelines – see our update on USCIS Enhanced Security Vetting for what applicants should expect.

What Happens If You Do Not Register?

Individuals who are required to register but fail to do so may face civil and criminal penalties under U.S. immigration law. These penalties can include fines, possible imprisonment, and other legal consequences depending on the circumstances. Parents or legal guardians who do not register a child when required may also be held responsible. Complying with the registration requirement can help avoid unnecessary legal and immigration-related issues.

What This Means for Employers Sponsoring Foreign Nationals

For most employers, the final rule is unlikely to affect employees who have already completed the registration process through a valid visa, Form I-94, employment authorization, or another qualifying immigration process. However, employers should be aware that some foreign nationals may still be required to register. It is also important to understand that completing Form G-325R does not grant lawful immigration status, employment authorization, or any additional immigration benefits. When there is any uncertainty, employers should encourage affected employees to seek guidance from an experienced immigration attorney.

Conclusion

The Final Rule provides clearer guidance on the alien registration requirement and the process for complying with it. If you are unsure whether registration applies to your situation, seeking advice from an experienced immigration professional can help you understand your obligations and avoid potential penalties.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Receipt of this communication does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific circumstances.