New Registration Requirement for Foreigners in the U.S. Starting in 2025

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented new provisions for the mandatory registration of foreigners in the United States, in accordance with the executive order issued on January 20, 2025. This measure aims to ensure compliance with Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), establishing civil and criminal penalties for those who fail to comply with the regulation.

Who Must Register?

According to the INA, any foreigner over the age of 14 who has not been registered or fingerprinted when applying for a visa and who remains in the U.S. for more than 30 days must complete this process. Parents and legal guardians are responsible for registering children under the age of 14, and once they reach that age, they must re-register within 30 days.

The registration includes fingerprinting and the issuance of a document that foreigners over the age of 18 must carry at all times as proof of compliance.

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Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this requirement may result in fines and legal proceedings for minor offenses. However, most foreigners in the U.S. already comply with this regulation, as they have been registered through other immigration processes, such as visa applications or the issuance of immigration documents.

Registration Process

The DHS has developed a new form and a digital procedure to facilitate registration. Starting on February 25, 2025, foreigners required to register must create an online account with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), through which they can complete the process.

More details about the process are expected to be provided in the coming days, so those affected are advised to stay informed through USCIS’s official channels.

Exceptions to Registration

Some individuals are exempt from this requirement, such as Native Americans born in Canada under Section 289 of the INA and members of the Kickapoo Tribe of Texas.

Avoid Scams

USCIS warns foreigners about potential fraud related to this process. To avoid scams, it is recommended to seek assistance only from authorized immigration professionals. Consult official sources for verified information and to prevent legal issues.

With this measure, the U.S. government strengthens immigration control and facilitates compliance for those who have not yet completed their registration in the country. Stay informed and follow the appropriate steps to meet this legal requirement.

From: https://www.uscis.gov/es/registro-extranjeros 

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