New procedure for registering foreign nationals in the USA: important changes from February 25, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a new alien registration procedure, effective February 25, 2025. All non-citizens who have not previously registered will be required to comply with the registration requirements to avoid potential penalties and legal consequences.

While most foreign nationals are already registered under U.S. immigration law, there are a significant number of people who have not had the opportunity to complete this procedure. USCIS is developing a new form and process to allow undocumented foreign nationals to fulfill their obligations under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Registration is not a new requirement. Under the INA, mandatory registration must be completed by:

• All foreign nationals 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a visa to enter the U.S., and who are in the country for 30 days or longer. They must apply before this 30-day period expires.
• Parents and legal guardians of foreign nationals under the age of 14 who have not been registered and are in the United States for 30 days or longer.
• Any foreign national who turns 14 years of age in the United States within 30 days of reaching that age.

Currently, foreign nationals who are in the country without proper status or documentation must register. This includes illegal immigrants, Canadian visitors who entered through land ports, and foreign nationals who have applied for various benefits and have not been issued proof of registration.

To prepare for the registration process, citizens will need to create an account on the official U.S. immigration portal. Once the system is in place, citizens will be able to apply for registration through their account, and parents and guardians will be able to register children under the age of 14 on their behalf through their online accounts.

Upon successful registration and fingerprinting, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will issue a certificate of registration, which foreign nationals over the age of 18 must carry with them at all times.

This innovation is designed to better monitor immigration status and enforce U.S. law. All undocumented foreign nationals should be prepared for the new requirements and watch for updates from USCIS.

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