If you’re an immigrant or undocumented individual living in the United States, you may have recently heard about the government’s renewed focus on alien registration. Beginning April 11, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will require certain individuals to register using a new online process with Form G-325R.
In this article, I’ll break down what the law requires, who must register, how the process works, and what this means for your future in the U.S.
I’m Dr. Jae Francis, immigration attorney and founder of Francis Law Center, where we represent clients in all 50 states. This blog is not intended to scare undocumented immigrants or critique any policy. My only goal is to help you understand this new rule—so you can make informed decisions for yourself and your family.
What Is Alien Registration and Why Is It Required Now?
On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14159, titled Protecting the American People Against Invasion. This order instructed DHS to fully enforce the longstanding alien registration laws under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
Although this law has existed for years, the executive order now makes alien registration a civil and criminal enforcement priority. Under the law, any foreign national who stays in the U.S. for more than 30 days and has not been registered or fingerprinted is required to register—and to submit biometrics if needed.
To streamline this process, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a new form: Form G-325R, Biographic Information (Registration). This online form is designed for individuals who never registered through visa processing, border inspection, or prior USCIS applications.
Who Must Submit Form G-325R?
You are required to register using Form G-325R if:
- You entered the U.S. without inspection or parole (e.g., you crossed the border unlawfully).
- You are a Canadian visitor who entered by land and did not receive a Form I-94 or any official registration document.
- You applied for immigration benefits like Deferred Action or Temporary Protected Status (TPS)but were never issued official registration evidence.
All individuals, regardless of age, are required to register, even if you are the parent or legal guardian of a child under 14 who meets the above criteria and has remained in the U.S. for 30 days or more.
Who Is Already Registered and Doesn’t Need to File?
You are already registered and do not need to submit Form G-325R if:
- You are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
- You entered the U.S. with a valid visa or were issued Form I-94 or I-94W, even if your admission has since expired.
- You were paroled under INA 212(d)(5), regardless of whether your parole has expired.
- You submitted Form I-485(green card application) and were fingerprinted (unless waived), even if the application was denied.
- You’ve been placed in removal proceedings.
- You were issued an employment authorization document (EAD) or Border Crossing Card.
If you’ve gone through any of these processes, USCIS likely already has your registration on file.
How to Register Online Using Form G-325R
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to complete the new alien registration process:
- Create a USCIS Online Account
Go to my.uscis.gov to create your account. Each individual must register under their own USCIS account—including children under 14. If you’re registering on behalf of a minor, you must create the account in their name.
- Submit Form G-325R
Complete and submit the form electronically. Paper submissions are not accepted, and it must be submitted from the USCIS account of the person being registered.
- Wait for USCIS Review
USCIS will compare your submitted data against DHS records. If you’re already registered through another immigration process, USCIS will notify you. No further action will be required.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
If DHS determines that you haven’t previously submitted fingerprints, USCIS will schedule you for a biometric services appointment at a local Application Support Center. There is no fee for this appointment under the new rule.
- Download Proof of Registration
Once your registration is complete, you’ll receive official proof of registration via your USCIS online account. Be sure to download and print it.
What Happens If You Don’t Register or Carry the Registration Proof?
If you are required to register and fail to do so—or if you don’t attend a scheduled biometrics appointment—you could face the following penalties:
- Criminal charges
- Fines of up to $5,000 if convicted
- Jail time of up to 6 months if convicted
- For parents, failure to register a child may result in the same penalties
In addition, anyone age 18 or older who is registered must carry proof of registration at all times. Failure to do so is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail or an additional $5,000 fine per offense.
What Form G-325R Does Not Do
Filing Form G-325R does not grant any immigration status or protection. Submitting the form:
- Does not provide lawful presence
- Does not stop deportation
- Does not authorize you to work
- Does not lead to a green card or legal status
It is strictly a compliance requirement under Section 262 of the INA.
What to Consider Before You Register
We understand that many people are concerned about submitting personal and biometric information to the U.S. government—especially if they are undocumented.
By filing Form G-325R, you are voluntarily providing your name, date of birth, address, and potentially fingerprints to DHS. While this data was not used for enforcement under past administrations, there is no guarantee that future or current administrations won’t use it differently.
The government has not explicitly stated whether registration data might be used for immigration enforcement or deportation. The official position is that this process exists to meet legal obligations under the INA. However, once submitted, your information becomes part of your immigration record.
We’re not discouraging you—but we do recommend speaking with a qualified immigration attorney if you’re unsure about the risks or your eligibility.
How Francis Law Center Can Help
At Francis Law Center, immigration law is all we do. Our experienced legal team is dedicated to helping individuals and families across the United States understand their rights and options under U.S. immigration law. Whether you need help with filing Form G-325R, applying for asylum, exploring relief from deportation, or navigating any other complex immigration matter, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Hablamos español. Our Spanish-speaking team is available to assist clients who feel more comfortable communicating in Spanish. We believe language should never be a barrier when it comes to protecting your future.
For more updates, legal tips, and immigration resources, we invite you to explore our website or connect with us for a personalized consultation. We serve clients in all 50 states and are ready to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact Francis Law Center today to speak with an attorney and find the best path forward for your situation.
