A federal judge ruled that a new alien registration requirement became effective on April 11, 2025. The regulation establishes who must register and who is exempt from this requirement.
Several categories of foreign nationals do not need to register. These include individuals staying in the U.S. for fewer than 30 days, as well as those "already considered to be registered," such as Lawful Permanent Residents, ESTA holders from Visa Waiver Program countries, and those issued employment authorization documents. Additionally, Canadian citizens entering with an I-94 record and individuals admitted with documented nonimmigrant status are exempt.
However, many non-U.S. citizens are required to register if they will remain in the country for more than 30 days and haven't completed registration through visa or ESTA processes. This includes Canadian visitors without I-94 records, children under 14 planning extended stays, individuals who entered without inspection, and those who submitted benefit requests to USCIS without acceptable proof of registration. Children turning 14 must update their registration and provide fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday.
The regulation affects various immigrant categories, including DACA and Temporary Protected Status applicants who lack employment authorization documents or other recognized proof of registration.
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