According to new regulations that took effect on Friday, all foreign nationals living in the United States are now required to register with the government and maintain proof of their legal status at all times, following an executive order from President Donald Trump.

The rule, applicable to all non-citizens—referred to as aliens—was announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and implemented by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Under the new mandate, all aliens aged 18 and older, including those with legal status, are required to carry evidence of their registration at all times. This includes Green Card holders and other categories of legally residing non-citizens in the US.

“Once an alien has registered and appeared for fingerprinting (unless waived), DHS will issue evidence of registration, which aliens over the age of 18 must carry and keep in their personal possession at all times,” the USCIS stated in a March 21 alert.

“Many aliens in the United States have already registered, as required by law. However, a significant number of aliens present in the United States have had no direct way to register and meet their obligation under INA 262,” the USCIS explained.

The regulations warn that failure to comply may result in criminal and civil penalties, including misdemeanor charges, fines, or imprisonment.

This rule enforces Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which has long mandated non-citizen registration but previously lacked a comprehensive enforcement mechanism.

President Trump’s Executive Order 14159, issued on January 20 and titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion,” instructed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to prioritize law enforcement actions against noncompliance with this registration requirement.

Under these new rules, non-citizens who have been in the US for 30 days or more must register online using the new Form G-325R for Biometric Information.

Additionally, those who have not undergone fingerprinting before are required to appear for fingerprinting.

The rule applies to nearly all non-citizens, including temporary visitors, students, and workers, with limited exceptions. It also imposes responsibilities on parents or legal guardians of children under 14.

“Within 30 days of turning 14, all previously registered aliens must apply for re-registration and undergo fingerprinting,” the regulation specifies.

Following the new rule, even traffic police and other law enforcement officials are authorized to request proof of an individual’s registration status.

Canadians staying in the US for more than 30 days must register unless they already have an I-94 admission record. Those entering by land or ferry must ensure they receive this document.

The fee for the I-94 is $6, and requests can be made in advance at a land border, as noted by an immigration advisory. The CBP One mobile app can facilitate this process.

The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) has recognized the rule and advised its members to remain informed about the evolving regulations.

“It’s particularly important for non-immigrants with children in the US to be aware that their children must register and be fingerprinted within 30 days of turning 14,” AILA stated.

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