After an unsuccessful legal challenge, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) begins a new online registration requirement under the Alien Registration Act (ARA) which requires certain foreign nationals in the U.S. to register with the federal government and update their address with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). DHS may pursue criminal penalties for willful failure to comply. This requirement is effective April 11, 2025. 

Once registered, USCIS will issue proof of registration and, if required, will schedule a biometrics appointment.  All noncitizens 18 and older must carry this registration document at all times.   

Per the latest DHS guidance, the following applies to all noncitizens, regardless of status:   

• Present in the U.S. for 30 days or more as of April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register immediately via USCIS.  

• Entering on or after April 11, 2025, without registration evidence: Register within 30 days of arrival.  

• Turning 14 in the U.S.: Re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of your 14th birthday, even if previously registered.  

• Parents or guardians of minors under 14:  Register minors if they remain in the U.S. for 30 days but were not previously registered and issued one of the documents acceptable as evidence of registration.  

Please refer to Foster LLP’s initial Email Bulletin for details on who has met the registration requirement, who has not, and what qualifies as proof of registration.  

If you are unsure about your registration status or need legal guidance, please contact qualified immigration counsel, such as Foster LLP.     

Foster will continue to monitor changes in the legal requirements applicable to foreign nationals in the United States and will provide additional information as it becomes available via future Immigration Updates© and on our firm’s website at www.fosterglobal.com.