Effective April 11, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) implemented new policies that impose specific registration and notification requirements on non-U.S. citizens residing in the United States. These regulations aim to enhance national security and ensure accurate record-keeping of the non-citizen population within the country. It’s crucial for international students, scholars, permanent residents, and other non-U.S. citizens to understand these requirements to maintain their legal immigration status and avoid potential penalties.

The New Registration Requirement: Form G-325R

A key aspect of these new policies is the mandatory registration for certain non-U.S. citizens. While USCIS anticipates that the majority of individuals already residing in the U.S. are likely registered through previous immigration processes (such as visa applications, adjustment of status, or other interactions with immigration authorities), a specific requirement has been introduced for those who may not have been formally registered.

Who Needs to Register?

According to the new regulations, any non-U.S. citizen who has been physically present in the United States for 30 days or more and has not yet been officially registered with the U.S. government through existing immigration procedures is now required to complete Form G-325R, Biographic Information. This form collects essential biographical details, including name, date and place of birth, address, parents’ information, employment history, and immigration history.

Who is Likely Already Registered?

USCIS clarifies that most non-U.S. citizens are likely already registered through various prior interactions with the agency. This would typically include individuals who have:

• Applied for and received a non-immigrant visa (e.g., F-1 student visa, J-1 exchange visitor visa, H-1B work visa).
• Applied for and received Lawful Permanent Resident status (Green Card).
• Applied for and received asylum or refugee status.
• Had other formal interactions with USCIS involving the submission of biographical information.

Therefore, the new Form G-325R requirement primarily targets individuals who may have entered the U.S. under circumstances that did not automatically trigger formal registration, or those whose initial registration information may be outdated or incomplete.

The Continuous Requirement to Carry Proof of Registration:

Beyond the one-time registration requirement for certain individuals, all non-U.S. citizens, regardless of their immigration status or how long they have been in the U.S., are now mandated to carry proof of their registration with them at all times.

What Constitutes Proof of Registration?

Acceptable forms of proof of registration include:

• A valid, unexpired Green Card (Form I-551) for Lawful Permanent Residents.
• A valid, unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (Form I-766) for those authorized to work in the U.S.
• A valid, unexpired I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (in paper or electronic format), which is typically issued upon entry to non-immigrants.
• Any other official document issued by the U.S. government that confirms the individual’s immigration status and registration.

It is the responsibility of every non-U.S. citizen to ensure they possess one of these valid documents on their person. Failure to do so could lead to potential scrutiny by immigration authorities.

The Mandatory Requirement to Report Address Changes:

Maintaining accurate and up-to-date address information is critical for all non-U.S. citizens in the United States. The new policies reinforce the existing requirement that any non-U.S. citizen who changes their address within the U.S. must notify the government of this change within 10 days of moving.

How to Report an Address Change:

The primary method for reporting a change of address to USCIS is by filing Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card. This form can be submitted online through the official USCIS website. It is essential to comply with this requirement promptly to ensure that you receive important notices and communications from USCIS and to maintain your legal immigration status.

Consequences of Failing to Comply with These New Requirements:

Failure to adhere to these new registration and notification requirements can have significant negative consequences on an individual’s immigration status in the United States. According to the USCIS policy, non-compliance may result in:

• Fines: Individuals who fail to register or fail to notify USCIS of an address change within the stipulated timeframe may be subject to monetary fines.
• Misdemeanor Criminal Charges: In more serious cases of non-compliance, individuals could face misdemeanor criminal charges, which can have severe repercussions on their future immigration prospects.
• Negative Impact on Immigration Status: Failure to comply with these regulations can be viewed as a violation of immigration law and could negatively impact future immigration applications, including applications for extensions of stay, changes of status, or lawful permanent residency. It could also potentially lead to removal proceedings.

Who is Affected?

These new policies directly affect a broad range of non-U.S. citizens residing in the United States, including:

• International students (holding F and M visas).
• Exchange visitors (holding J visas).
• Temporary workers (holding H, L, O, P visas, etc.).
• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders).
• Asylum seekers and refugees.
• Individuals in other non-immigrant statuses.

Staying Informed and Compliant:

It is the responsibility of every non-U.S. citizen in the United States to be aware of and comply with all applicable immigration laws and regulations. To ensure compliance with these new requirements, individuals should:

• Determine if they need to file Form G-325R based on their length of stay in the U.S. and previous interactions with immigration authorities.
• Ensure they are always carrying valid proof of their registration.
• Report any change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving by filing Form AR-11 online.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is crucial to refer directly to the official website of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consult with qualified immigration legal counsel if you have specific questions or concerns about your individual situation. Compliance with these new requirements is essential for maintaining your legal status and ensuring your continued stay in the United States.