Understanding the New Registration Requirements for Noncitizens

In April 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented a new mandatory registration process for noncitizens present in the U.S. for more than 30 days. This initiative, rooted in an archaic provision of immigration law, requires individuals to complete Form G-325R, Biographic Information (Registration). While the stated purpose of the form is to ensure compliance with the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), many advocates and legal experts have expressed concerns over its use as an immigration enforcement tool rather than a protective measure.

What’s Form G-325R About?

Form G-325R collects extensive biographic, immigration, and personal data from noncitizens. This includes information about family members, physical features, immigration history, and criminal records. But here’s the catch: filing the form does not offer any immigration benefit—no legal status, work permits, or relief from deportation are granted. Instead, the collected data is primarily used to locate and facilitate the removal of noncitizens.

Unlike prior registration initiatives, such as the Alien Registration Act of 1940 (which at least offered some pathways to legal status), this program focuses exclusively on enforcement. The rollout of Form G-325R was rushed, with no proper notice or public comment. This lack of clarity has fueled fear and confusion in immigrant communities.

Do You Need to Register?

Not everyone is required to submit Form G-325R. Many noncitizens are already registered if they’ve applied for a visa, adjusted their status, or provided fingerprints through other immigration processes. However, determining who is exempt isn’t always straightforward.

For example, DHS launched an online tool called “Do I Need to Register?” to help noncitizens figure this out, but the tool is incomplete and sometimes inaccurate. It’s critical to consult an immigration attorney to confirm whether or not you need to register, as unnecessary filings could expose individuals to significant risks.

Risks of Registering vs. Not Registering

Submitting Form G-325R can have severe consequences. By disclosing personal and immigration-related details, individuals may incriminate themselves or provide DHS with grounds for enforcement actions, including detention, removal, or expedited deportation. Furthermore, the form requires truthful answers under penalty of perjury, even for vague and potentially incriminating questions.

On the flip side, choosing not to register could lead to criminal penalties for “willful” noncompliance, including fines and potential detention. However, proving “willfulness” for non-registration might be legally challenging for the government, as many individuals may fail to register due to genuine confusion or lack of awareness.

What Should You Do?

Here are key steps to consider:

• Consult with an Attorney: Never proceed without legal advice. A lawyer can assess whether you’re already registered or eligible for safer registration pathways.
• Understand the Implications: Filing Form G-325R may expose you to enforcement risks or criminal liabilities. Weigh these consequences carefully.
• Beware of Misinformation: Many rumors—such as “everyone must immediately register” or “registration offers lawful status”—are false. Confirm facts with trusted legal experts or resources.

A Complex Rule in a Changing Legal Landscape

The new registration requirement has introduced uncertainty for millions of noncitizens, with litigation over its legality already underway. For now, making informed decisions and knowing your rights is the best way to safeguard your future.

For further insights on this topic, consult the Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s detailed guide here.

DISCLAIMER: This blog post is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every immigration case is unique, and the information provided here may not apply to your specific situation. Please consult with a qualified immigration attorney for personalized legal advice regarding your case.