The rule is intended to improve law enforcement by providing officials with more comprehensive information about where non-citizens are located in the country.
What is the new rule?
The final rule adopts the Interim Final Rule (IFR) issued in 2025 and introduces procedural and technical updates, including changes to the list of immigration forms and processes that fulfil the registration requirement.
The regulation implements an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January 2025 directing DHS to ensure compliance with the registration requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Who needs to register?
According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, registration under the rule applies to non-citizens who:
- Are 14 years or older
- Were not registered and fingerprinted while applying for a US visa
- Remain in the United States for 30 days or longer for each period of stay
Parents or legal guardians are responsible for registering children under the age of 14. Once a previously registered child turns 14, they must apply for re-registration and fingerprinting within 30 days.
What about H-1B visa holders?
Most H-1B visa holders and their dependents will not have to register again. This is because individuals who obtained a US visa and received an I-94 arrival record when entering the country are generally already considered registered under immigration rules.
What are the requirements?
After completing registration and fingerprinting, DHS will issue proof of registration. Anyone 18 years or older must carry this document at all times while in the United States. According to DHS, those who are required to register and have not yet completed the process can continue to use Form G-325R, Biographic Information (Registration).
What happens if someone does not comply
The department said failure to comply with the registration requirements may result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines, misdemeanour prosecution and possible imprisonment.
DHS also noted that the registration requirement applies each time a non-citizen enters the United States for a stay of 30 days or longer, meaning travellers may need to check whether they are required to register before every visit.
