U.S. implements new registration procedure for foreign nationals starting in February

On February 25, 2025, a new registration procedure for foreign nationals will go into effect in the United States to better control immigration status. All non-U.S. citizens who have not previously registered must comply with the registration requirements to avoid potential penalties and legal consequences.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is developing a new form and process to allow undocumented aliens to fulfill their obligations under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Registration is required for the following categories:

• Foreign nationals 14 years of age or older who are in the U.S. for 30 days or longer and have not been registered or fingerprinted when applying for a visa.
• Parents and legal guardians of foreign nationals under the age of 14 who are in the country for 30 days or longer without registration.
• Any foreign national who turns 14 years of age in the U.S. within 30 days of reaching that age.

Foreign nationals who are in the U.S. without proper status or documentation are currently required to register:

• illegal immigrants,
• Canadian citizens entering through land ports of entry,
• Foreign nationals who have applied for various benefits but have not received confirmation of enrollment.

In order to participate in the registration process, it is necessary to create an account on the official portal. Once the system is implemented, citizens will be able to apply for registration through their accounts and parents will be able to register children under 14 years of age on their behalf.

After successful registration and fingerprinting, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will issue a registration certificate, which foreign nationals over the age of 18 will be required to carry with them at all times.

These changes are intended to better monitor immigration status and enforce U.S. law. All undocumented foreign nationals should be prepared for the new requirements and watch for updates from USCIS.

Stay up-to-date on all visa policy changes and get up-to-date travel planning advice by following the news at Visa-Navigator.com.