Starting April 11, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires certain noncitizens, mainly those who entered the U.S. without inspection, to register online and provide personal and background information.
Who Is Already Registered?
You likely don’t need to register if you:
- Have a green card
- Entered the U.S. with a visa or parole and received an I-94
- Applied for a green card (Form I-485)
- Have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Are or were in removal proceedings
Who Must Register?
You likely need to register if you:
- Are 14 or older (or the parent of a child under 14) and entered the U.S. without inspection or parole and have stayed 30+ days
- Turned 14 in the U.S. after entering without inspection
- Are a Canadian who entered through a land border without getting an I-94
Note: Applying for programs like TPS, asylum, DACA, or a U visa does not count as registration unless you were issued an EAD.
Registration Does Not Grant Legal Status.
Failing to Register Can Lead To:
- Criminal charges, fines, or jail
- Deportation or detention
Risks of Registering:
- Information you provide may be used against you in immigration or criminal cases
- You could face detention or removal
What You Should Do?:
Deciding to register is serious and may have legal consequences. Talk to an experienced immigration attorney before taking any steps.
How to Register:
- Log in at https://my.uscis.gov/
- Submit your info online
- Attend a fingerprint appointment
- Carry your proof of registration at all times
More Info:
- Visit uscis.gov/alienregistration for details in English and Spanish
- Only required fields marked with * need to be filled in.
- See the attached Q&A and screenshots for help
This is not legal advice. It’s a summary of current law to help you stay informed. Always check with a lawyer before acting.