Key Takeaways
• Starting April 11, 2025, all non-citizens 14+ in the US must register via the Alien Registration Act.
• Undocumented immigrants must submit form G-325R online and carry proof if 18 or older.
• Failure to register may lead to fines, jail, and deportation under strict enforcement.
The Trump administration has launched a major change in immigration enforcement, requiring all undocumented immigrants and other non-citizens in the United States 🇺🇸 to register with the federal government. This new policy, which began on April 11, 2025, is being enforced by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and marks the first time in decades that the Alien Registration Act is being actively applied to everyone in the country without legal status. The move has sparked concern among immigrant communities, legal experts, and advocacy groups, while government officials say it is necessary for national security and public safety.
Below, we break down what this policy means, who it affects, how it works, and what undocumented immigrants need to know to protect themselves and their families.
What Is the Alien Registration Requirement?
The Alien Registration Act, passed in 1940, is a federal law that says every foreign national (anyone who is not a U.S. citizen) aged 14 or older must register with the government if they plan to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more. This law also requires people to be fingerprinted and to carry proof of their registration at all times once they turn 18.
For many years, this law was not strictly enforced, especially for undocumented immigrants—people living in the country without legal permission. That changed in April 2025, when the Trump administration, under Executive Order 14159, directed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and USCIS to begin enforcing the law for all non-citizens, including those without legal status.
Who Must Register and When?
All non-citizens aged 14 or older who plan to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more must register. This includes:
- People with valid visas (like students, workers, or tourists)
- Green card holders (lawful permanent residents)
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Undocumented immigrants—those who entered the country without permission or overstayed a visa
Key points:
– If you are under 14, you do not need to register.
– If you are 18 or older, you must carry proof of registration at all times.
– The registration requirement applies even if you have never had contact with immigration authorities before.
How Does the Registration Process Work?
The process is now handled online through a new form, the G-325R. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Check If You Need to Register
Ask yourself:
– Are you a non-citizen?
– Are you 14 or older?
– Will you be in the United States 🇺🇸 for 30 days or more?
If you answer “yes” to all three, you must register.
2. Access the Registration Form
Go to the official USCIS website and find the G-325R form. This is the only official place to get the form.
3. Fill Out the Form
You will need to provide:
– Your full name
– Date and place of birth
– Current address
– Immigration status (if any)
– Fingerprints (instructions are provided on the form)
4. Submit the Form
Follow the instructions on the USCIS website to submit your form online. If you have trouble, you can contact USCIS or seek help from a trusted immigration lawyer.
5. Get Proof of Registration
Once your registration is processed, you will receive a document showing you have registered. This is your “Proof of Alien Registration.”
6. Carry Proof at All Times
If you are 18 or older, you must carry this proof with you at all times. If you are stopped by law enforcement or immigration officers, you may be asked to show it.
What Happens If You Don’t Register?
Penalties for not registering are serious. According to the law:
- You can be fined
- You can be sent to jail
- You may face deportation
The Trump administration has made it clear that failure to register is now a top enforcement priority. DHS and USCIS have been told to treat non-compliance as both a civil and criminal matter.
Why Is This Happening Now?
The Alien Registration Act has existed since 1940, but it was rarely enforced for undocumented immigrants. The Trump administration, through Executive Order 14159, “Protecting the American People Against Invasion,” has decided to enforce this law for all non-citizens. Secretary Noem announced the creation of a national registry for all immigrants, saying it is needed to keep the country safe and to make sure everyone follows the law.
What Are the Risks for Undocumented Immigrants?
For undocumented immigrants, the new registration rule brings both legal and personal risks:
- Risk of Exposure: Registering means giving your personal information to the government. If you have never had contact with immigration authorities, this could make it easier for them to find you and start deportation proceedings.
- Legal Penalties: Not registering can lead to fines, jail time, and removal from the country.
- Carrying Proof: If you are stopped by police or immigration officers and do not have your proof of registration, you could be detained or face other penalties.
Immigration advocacy groups, such as the National Immigration Law Center, warn that undocumented immigrants should be very careful and know their rights before registering.
What Do Immigration Advocates and Legal Experts Say?
Many legal experts and advocacy groups are worried about the impact of this policy on undocumented immigrants. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the American Immigration Council have both submitted comments to USCIS, raising concerns about privacy, due process, and the risk of increased deportations.
Advocates stress the following points:
- Know Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent and to speak to a lawyer before answering questions from immigration officers.
- Get Legal Advice: Before registering, talk to a trusted immigration lawyer or legal aid group. They can help you understand your options and risks.
- Stay Informed: Policies may change, and advocacy groups are working to challenge or modify the new rules.
What Does the Government Say?
Government officials argue that enforcing the Alien Registration Act is necessary for national security and public safety. They say that having a complete registry of all non-citizens will help law enforcement and make it easier to track people who may pose a threat.
Secretary Noem has said the registry will help ensure that everyone in the country is following the law, and that the new system is designed to be simple and fair.
Step-by-Step: What Should You Do Now?
If you are an undocumented immigrant or any non-citizen in the United States 🇺🇸, here’s what you should do:
- Check if you need to register: If you are 14 or older and plan to stay for 30 days or more, you must register.
- Visit the official USCIS website: Only use the official USCIS site to access the G-325R form and instructions.
- Fill out and submit the form: Provide all required information honestly and completely.
- Get your proof of registration: Keep this document safe and carry it with you if you are 18 or older.
- Know your rights: If you are approached by law enforcement, you have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer.
- Seek legal help: If you are unsure about what to do, contact a trusted immigration lawyer or advocacy group.
What Are the Broader Implications?
For Immigrants
- Increased Fear: Many undocumented immigrants are afraid that registering will lead to deportation. Some may choose not to register, risking fines or jail.
- Legal Uncertainty: The policy is new, and there may be legal challenges or changes in the future.
- Community Impact: Families may be separated if some members are deported after registering.
For Employers
- Verification: Employers may need to check that their workers have registered, especially in industries with many immigrant workers.
- Legal Risks: Hiring someone who has not registered could lead to penalties for employers.
For Advocacy Groups
- Increased Demand: Legal aid groups and advocacy organizations are seeing more requests for help and advice.
- Policy Challenges: Groups are working to challenge the policy in court and to provide support for those affected.
Historical Background
The Alien Registration Act was passed in 1940, during a time of global conflict and fear of foreign threats. It was designed to keep track of non-citizens and to prevent espionage or sabotage. Over the years, the law was used less and less, especially as the immigration system changed and new laws were passed.
The Trump administration’s decision to enforce the law for all non-citizens, including undocumented immigrants, is a major shift in policy. It reflects a broader trend toward stricter immigration enforcement and increased use of existing laws.
What Might Happen Next?
As the policy is enforced, there may be changes or new guidance from the government. Advocacy groups and legal experts are closely watching the situation and may challenge the policy in court. It is important for all non-citizens, especially undocumented immigrants, to stay informed and to seek help if needed.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the enforcement of the Alien Registration Act could have far-reaching effects on millions of people living in the United States 🇺🇸 without legal status. The situation is evolving, and updates are expected as advocacy groups, legal experts, and government agencies respond to the new rules.
Where Can You Get Help or More Information?
If you need help or want more information about the registration requirement, you can visit these official resources:
- USCIS Official Website: www.uscis.gov – for the G-325R form, instructions, and official updates
- National Immigration Law Center: www.nilc.org – for information on immigrant rights and legal help
- American Immigration Lawyers Association: www.aila.org – to find a qualified immigration lawyer
If you are filling out the G-325R form, make sure you are on the official government website to avoid scams or fake services.
Key Takeaways
- All non-citizens aged 14 or older in the United States 🇺🇸 must register under the Alien Registration Act if they plan to stay for 30 days or more.
- Undocumented immigrants are included in this requirement for the first time in decades.
- Registration is done online using the G-325R form on the USCIS website.
- Failure to register can result in fines, jail, and deportation.
- Carrying proof of registration is required for everyone 18 or older.
- Legal and advocacy groups recommend knowing your rights and seeking legal advice before registering.
Final Thoughts
The enforcement of the Alien Registration Act is a major change for undocumented immigrants and all non-citizens in the United States 🇺🇸. While the government says it is needed for safety and law enforcement, many people are worried about the risks and consequences. If you or someone you know is affected, it is important to stay informed, know your rights, and seek help from trusted sources.
For the latest updates and official information, always check the USCIS website. If you need legal help, reach out to organizations like the National Immigration Law Center or the American Immigration Lawyers Association. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember that you have rights and options, even in uncertain times.
Learn Today
Alien Registration Act → A 1940 federal law requiring foreign nationals 14+ to register with US authorities if staying 30+ days.
Undocumented Immigrants → Individuals living in the US without legal immigration status or proper documentation.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the federal agency enforcing immigration laws and registration.
G-325R Form → The official online form non-citizens must complete to register under the Alien Registration Act.
Executive Order 14159 → A 2025 directive mandating strict enforcement of the Alien Registration Act nationwide.
This Article in a Nutshell
The Trump administration enforces the Alien Registration Act from April 2025, requiring all non-citizens to register online using form G-325R. Undocumented immigrants face legal risks and must carry proof of registration if 18 or older, highlighting a major shift in immigration enforcement for national security.
— By VisaVerge.com
