The Trump administration has revived a decades-old requirement that will affect millions
of non-citizens living in the United States. On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an
executive order titled "Protecting the American People Against Invasion," which brings back
the Alien Registration Requirement under the 1940 law. This policy shift represents a major
change in how the government tracks and manages the estimated 12 million undocumented
immigrants in the country.

What's Happening Now

As of February 26, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is fully enforcing the
Alien Registration Act. Secretary Kristi Noem announced an online registration system at
USCIS.gov/alienregistration where non-citizens must register, including providing
fingerprints and other biometric data.

Those who register won't face criminal penalties and may receive assistance returning to
their home countries if desired. However, registration itself doesn't provide any
immigration benefits or legal status in the US.

Who Needs to Register

The requirement applies to non-citizens who:

• Are 14 years or older
• Have been in the US for more than 30 days
• Weren't fingerprinted when applying for their US visa

This includes people who previously didn't register, children turning 14 (who must register
within 30 days of their birthday), and younger children whose parents must register them.

To comply, non-citizens need to create a USCIS online account and complete the
registration process. It's important to note that registering doesn't authorize work or
provide any path to residency.

Who's Exempt

• Not everyone needs to register. Exemptions apply to:
• American Indians born in Canada who entered under INA Section 289
• Members of the Texas Band of Kickapoo Indians
• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
• People paroled into the US under INA Section 212(d)(5)
• Visa holders and Border Crossing Card holders
• People in formal removal proceedings
• Employment authorization document holders
• Those applying for permanent residence, even if denied

The Registration Process

Starting February 25, 2025, affected non-citizens must create a USCIS online account to
submit their registration. DHS will soon announce an official form for this process. Parents
or guardians must handle applications for children under 14.

The process includes fingerprinting and other biometrics. Those 18 and older must carry
proof of registration at all times. Failing to register can result in misdemeanor charges and
fines.

Practical Implications

For non-citizens affected by this policy, compliance is essential to avoid legal penalties.
Even some legal non-citizens need to determine if they must register. Those uncertain
about their status should seek legal advice.

DHS created a dedicated registration portal on February 24, 2025, with step-by-step
instructions and deadlines. USCIS will soon release a new form along with the updated
registration system, aiming to streamline the process.

What Affected People Must Do

If you're affected, you need to:

1. Create a USCIS online account
2. Monitor DHS announcements for updates
3. Submit registration materials once the form is available
4. Keep proof of registration with you if you're 18 or older

Parents of non-citizen children must ensure their kids are registered by the deadline and
re-register them when they turn 14.

Looking Forward

This change marks a significant shift in US immigration enforcement. By reviving the Alien
Registration Requirement, the government is creating a system to identify and track non-
citizens. While supporters see it as restoring accountability to immigration, it creates new
obligations for millions of people.

If you're affected, staying informed through official resources like USCIS.gov is crucial to
avoid legal problems. When in doubt, consulting with an immigration attorney is strongly
recommended to understand your specific obligations under these new rules.

For more information please visit www.USCIS.gov/alienregistration