The US has implemented a new immigration policy that requires foreign nationals to register with DHS. The rules will go into effect on February 25, 2025. Foreigners who violate the requirements face legal consequences. Find out who must register, what the process is, and what the new system will change for expats

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As part of a major change in US immigration policy, a rule has been introduced that requires foreign nationals to register upon entry into the United States. President Donald Trump, in his executive order “Protecting the American People from Invasion,” directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enforce an existing federal law that has been long unenforced.

The rule went into effect on February 25, 2025, so all expats who have not yet registered must do so immediately. Failure to register could result in fines, lawsuits, or immigration penalties.

Read on to learn more about the 2025 US Alien Registration Process.

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What is Alien Registration in the US?

Alien registration is a process by which foreign nationals must officially register their presence in the United States. This rule applies to certain categories of foreign visitors.

The registration process will track movements and ensure that expats are complying with visa conditions. In this way, the US government plans to improve the efficiency of immigration control. Information collected during the registration process will be stored and used for various purposes, including verifying legal status, tracking entries and exits, and updating information about the person’s location and activities in the US.

Who among the foreigners is required to register in the US under the new rule?

According to section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), all foreign nationals aged 14 and over must register if they:

1. Were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a visa to the US.

2. Are present in the US for more than 30 days.

3. Are the parent or guardian of a child under 14 who is staying in the US for more than 30 days.

4. Children who have turned 14 years old - in this case, you need to re-register within 30 days of your birthday.

Which foreign nationals are already registered in the US?

Many foreign nationals are already registered in the US under current immigration processes and therefore do not need further registration, including:

- Green Card holders (lawful permanent residents).

- Visa holders who have received an I-94 form or employment authorization.

- Those who have applied for permanent residence in the US, even if their application was rejected.

- Individuals who are currently facing deportation.

Which expats need to register in 2025 to avoid penalties?

It is important for the following groups of foreign nationals to register:

1. Undocumented immigrants who entered the US without an official inspection.

2. Canadian visitors who entered through land border crossings and did not receive registration documents.

3. DACA or Temporary Protected Status applicants who did not receive official confirmation of registration.

How do I register as an alien in the United States in 2025?

To simplify the registration process, DHS will launch an online registration process.

Effective February 25, 2025, expats must create an online USCIS account and complete the registration process on the USCIS Alien Registration Portal.

Important! Immigration experts strongly advise all foreign nationals to check their status and ensure they meet the requirements to avoid potential legal issues.

Depending on their visa category and purpose of stay, individuals will need to update their registration periodically. For example, students may need to update their records when they change schools or extend their stay, while employees may need to do so when they change employers.

What will the US registration system change for foreigners?

The new rule is aimed solely at enhancing security and simplifying immigration processes. The registration requirement does not provide legal status, work permits, or additional rights. However, failure to comply with the requirements can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines or prosecution. Therefore, be sure to complete the registration procedure if you belong to a category of citizens subject to US law.

Order a consultation with a migration lawyer to find out the current rules of the US registration procedure.

Reminder! A new visa interview waiver program has been launched in the US. This system simplifies the visa application procedure for people who meet a certain number of requirements, in particular, foreigners who are extending their residence permit. We have already told you which categories of foreigners are entitled to a simplified interview procedure and what requirements are imposed on participants.

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