Understanding the Alien Registration Requirement
If you are an immigrant living in the United States, it’s important to understand the Alien Registration Requirement and make sure that you and your loved ones are correctly registered. Failing to register can lead to serious immigration and criminal consequences.
What is the Alien Registration Requirement?
The Alien Registration Requirement is the legal obligation of certain non-U.S. citizens living in the U.S. to register their information with the federal government. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may be required to register and carry proof of your registration with you at all times.
Who Needs to Register?
- Noncitizens 14 years or older – If you were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U.S. visa and will stay in the U.S. for 30 days or longer, you must register before the expiration of those 30 days.
- Parents or legal guardians of children under 14 years of age – If a child under 14 years of age has not been registered and will stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days, their parent or guardian must register for them before the expiration of those 30 days.
- Noncitizens who will turn 14 years of age while in the U.S. – If a child turns 14 years of age while in the U.S., they must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday, even if they were previously registered as a child.
How Do You Register?
- Step 1: Create a USCIS online account. All non-citizens must create their own individual account. For noncitizens under the age of 14, their parent or legal guardian must create an account on the child’s behalf
- Step 2: Submit Form G-325R. Each noncitizen must complete their own Form G-325R, which requests biographical information, and submit the form through their USCIS online account. For noncitizens under the age of 14, their parent or legal guardian must complete and submit the form through the child’s USCIS online account.
- Step 3: USCIS review. USCIS will review the submitted Form G-325R and will notify the applicant of next steps.
- Step 4: Appear for biometrics appointment (if required).If you are required to provide your fingerprints, USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment and send you an appointment notice through your USCIS online account
- Step 5: Receive Proof of Registration. Once you have registered and completed your biometrics appointment (if required), USCIS will provide you with proof of registration via your USCIS online account.
What Are the Requirements After Registering?
Registered noncitizens must always carry their proof of registration. If you move to a new address, you must inform USCIS within 10 days of moving. Following immigration laws and staying up-to-date on any changes in the law is crucial to maintaining legal status in the U.S.
What Happens if You Do Not Register?
Failure to register or carry your proof of registration can lead to immigration and criminal consequences, including fines, detention, or even deportation. Immigration officers may ask for your proof of registration at any time, so it’s important to always have this document with you.
Need Legal Assistance? Contact Us Today!
If you have questions about the Alien Registration Requirement or need help with your immigration case, contact the Law Firm of Anna Korneeva at (513) 334-3008. Our experienced immigration attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law and find the best solution for your case.
