In a significant policy shift that echoes immigration enforcement practices of the past, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a new Alien Registration Requirement (ARR), effective April 11, 2025. This mandate revives enforcement of longstanding but largely dormant provisions under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), requiring certain noncitizens to formally register with the U.S. government—regardless of their current visa or immigration status.

At Mathur Law Offices, P.C., we are closely monitoring this development and advising our clients on how to remain in compliance. Below is a breakdown of what this rule means for you or your loved ones.

Who Is Required to Register?

The rule targets noncitizens physically present in the United States who:

Are 14 years or older and did not register or provide biometrics during the visa or entry process;
Are under 14, but have been in the U.S. for 30 days or more without being registered (their parents or guardians must register them);
Turn 14 years old while in the U.S.—they must register within 30 days of their birthday.

Importantly, if you already registered through your visa, green card, EAD, or other immigration process, you are likely exempt from this requirement. However, the burden falls on you to confirm this.

How Do You Comply?

Noncitizens must complete the following steps:

Create a USCIS online account at uscis.gov.
Submit Form G-325R, Biographic Information Form.
Attend a biometric appointment, if scheduled.
Carry proof of registration at all times if over 18 years old.

Failure to complete these steps could result in legal consequences, including civil fines or criminal prosecution.

What Are the Penalties?

Noncompliance may lead to:

Fines up to $5,000;
Imprisonment up to 6 months;
Additional penalties for failure to report address changes within 10 days, including fines or jail time.

DHS has made clear that enforcement of these requirements will be a priority, with referrals to ICE and potentially the Department of Justice for violators.

Why Now?

This revival of alien registration coincides with broader enforcement measures under the current administration, including enhanced social media surveillance and restructured immigration court procedures. Though alien registration is not new law, its reactivation in 2025 raises serious implications for privacy, due process, and immigrant communities at large.

A federal court has allowed this initiative to proceed, rejecting challenges to its legality. This makes it critical for noncitizens—especially those in F, H, B, TPS, DACA, or no status at all—to understand whether they are required to register and to act promptly.

What Should You Do?

If you are unsure of your registration status or how to comply:

✔ Do not wait. Early compliance can help avoid complications.
✔ Contact our office for a case-specific review.
✔ Do not travel abroad without consulting a licensed immigration attorney.
✔ Maintain a copy of your registration or exemption proof at all times.

Our Role at Mathur Law Offices, P.C.

We are committed to ensuring that immigrants, visa holders, and families remain safe, protected, and informed. If you or a loved one is affected by this rule—or unsure whether it applies—contact us immediately for a consultation. Our team of attorneys is ready to assist with:

Verifying whether ARR applies to you;
Preparing and submitting required documentation;
Advising on any removal or admissibility risks; and
Defending against enforcement actions.

Sanjay S. Mathur
Attorney & Founder, Mathur Law Offices, P.C.
Dallas, Texas
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