At SHEV Law Group, we are committed to providing clear and up-to-date legal guidance for immigrants navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration law. This guide explains the Mandatory Alien Registration Requirement—a legal obligation for all non-citizens residing in the U.S. to officially register their presence. Whether you’re new to the country or adjusting your immigration status, understanding this requirement is essential for staying compliant and avoiding legal issues. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to help you meet every regulatory standard with confidence.
Starting April 11, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will begin enforcing updated alien registration laws that could impact thousands of individuals currently living in the United States without lawful admission or parole.
This is not just another immigration rule — it’s a federal requirement that, if ignored, can result in serious consequences: arrests, fines, and even loss of immigration benefits. Whether you entered the U.S. without inspection, overstayed a visa, or are waiting for an immigration benefit to be approved, this guide is for you.
Understanding the nuances of these changes is crucial. Our guide will clarify the steps you need to take to ensure compliance with the new regulations and avoid any potential pitfalls.
Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance necessary to protect your rights and secure your future in the United States. We recognize that each individual’s situation is unique, and we are committed to offering personalized legal strategies that cater to your specific needs.
At Shev Law Group, we believe that knowledge is protection. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide. We’ll walk you through the law.
If you are physically present in the United States for 30 days or more and were not lawfully admitted or paroled, the law requires you to register.
Any noncitizen who enters or is already present in the United States and intends to remain for 30 days or more must complete alien registration — unless they are already considered registered (see further section on “Who Is Considered Already Registered”).
This registration mandate includes, but is not limited to:
Citizens of Canada who did not receive Form I-94 upon entry through land ports.
Noncitizens who entered the U.S. without inspection (EWI), and therefore lack any official record or documentation of registration.
Individuals who applied for Deferred Action (such as DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), but did not receive registration documentation.
Noncitizen children turning 14 years old while residing in the U.S. — they must register or re-register within 30 days of their 14th birthday.
This law mandates that any individual meeting the above criteria must register within 30 days of entering the U.S.
Prior to this policy update, many individuals who entered without inspection did not have access to an officially recognized registration process or document.
As of this new rule, however, that has changed — and compliance is now enforced. Failure to register when required is a serious federal offense.
The consequences may include (any one or more):
Arrest or detention by ICE or local law enforcement
Misdemeanor criminal charges
Fines up to $5,000
Up to 30 days in jail
Loss of eligibility for future immigration benefits, including green cards or visas
While this law is not a deportation order, failing to follow it can become grounds for removal later — especially if you apply for immigration relief and are found noncompliant.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), it is estimated that between 2.2 to 3.2 million noncitizens currently residing in the U.S. may be affected by this requirement, as stated in the March 12, 2024 Federal Register notice on registration.
Important Legal Clarification:
Registering does not give you legal immigration status.
Registering could potentially result in being detained or placed in removal proceedings, depending on your background and current circumstances.
Failure to register may subject you to civil and criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and ineligibility for future immigration relief.
Because of the serious legal risks involved, it is absolutely essential that you consult with an experienced immigration attorney before attempting to register.
An attorney can help you:
Understand your rights
Evaluate whether registration applies to your situation
Minimize risks of detention or enforcement
Explore legal pathways that may be available to you (e.g., asylum, waivers, deferred action)
At SHEV Law Group, our legal team is ready to guide you confidentially and thoroughly through this process.
If you’re required to register, take these steps carefully and document everything:
Create a USCIS Online Account
Go to https://myaccount.uscis.gov and create a secure account using your name, contact info, and ID.
Submit Form G-325R (Biometrics Registration)
This form provides your biometric data and identity information. It must be submitted online.
Receive a Biometrics Appointment Notice
USCIS will schedule a fingerprinting and photo appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC) near you.
Attend the Biometrics Appointment
Bring valid ID and arrive on time. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken for federal records.
Confirmation of Registration
After the appointment, your USCIS account will be updated with proof of registration. Save this for your records.
Important:
If you move or change addresses during this time, you must update USCIS within 10 days — or you may face fines or removal.
Our SHEV team is ready to assist you at any point.
Not every noncitizen is required to register under the updated policy. In fact, many individuals may already be considered registered under U.S. immigration law — particularly if they’ve interacted with DHS, USCIS, or CBP in a documented way.
Documents That May Serve as Proof:
You are a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) (green card holder)
You were paroled into the U.S.
You were admitted as a nonimmigrant (e.g., student, visitor, worker) and issued Form I-94 or I-94W
You were issued a visa (immigrant or nonimmigrant) before your most recent arrival to the U.S. and are age 14 or older
You were placed in removal proceedings and issued Form I-862
You were granted permission to depart voluntarily
You were issued an Employment Authorization Document
You were admitted with a valid DHS parole or admission stamp in your passport
You filed an immigration application requiring biometric capture (such as: Application to Adjust Status, Legalization application, not limited to)
You were issued a Border Crossing Card
Unsure whether you qualify as already registered?
Many people may have qualifying documentation and not realize it. At Shev Law Group, we offer document reviews and legal consultations to help you verify your registration status and avoid unnecessary legal risk.
Registration is a legal procedure that connects you with the Department of Homeland Security.
And for undocumented individuals, it comes with risks:
Submitting incorrect or false information can lead to criminal charges
Your fingerprints and records will become part of your federal immigration file
If you are under removal proceedings or have past immigration violations, your registration could trigger enforcement
That’s why anyone required to register must speak to a qualified immigration attorney. Our job is to protect your rights, explain your risks, and offer you the best legal representation.
If you move after registering, you must update USCIS within 10 days.
Failing to report your address change could result in one or more of the following:
A fine up to $5,000
Up to 30 days imprisonment
Potential removal from the United States
Even small errors could create immigration problems down the road.
Stay compliant: file online at https://www.uscis.gov/addresschange.
It’s essential that anyone affected by these policies consult SHEV’s experienced immigration attorney for personalized advice.
At Shev Law Group, we provide more than legal representation — we offer peace of mind. Our attorneys:
Evaluate your legal status and determine if you’re required to register
Guide you through every step of the registration process, ensuring all your documents are accurate and complete
Represent you if complications or legal consequences arise
Help you explore immigration options like adjustment of status, TPS, or waivers
You don’t have to do this alone. SHEV has helped hundreds of immigrants navigate complicated immigration cases. Whether you’re facing uncertainty or seeking clarity, Shev Law Group is committed to being your steadfast ally. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of immigration law and is dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized immigration service.
We believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions about their future. Reach out to us today, and let us help pave the way to a secure and promising future. Your journey is important to us, and together, we can find the right path forward.
If you or someone you care about may be affected by these requirements, don’t wait. The earlier we assess your case, the more options you may have.
Shev Law Group — Dependable, Experienced, and Prepared to Advocate for Your Future.
Dallas Office: (214) 915-8835
Houston Office: (281) 429-8083
Website: www.shevlawgroup.com
Address: 2990 Richmond Ave., Suite 205, Houston, TX 77098, USA
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