The US government has introduced stricter rules for foreign nationals staying in the country.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized new regulations aimed at ensuring that all eligible foreign nationals comply with the registration and fingerprinting requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
The final rule was published on June 29, 2026, and builds on an interim rule introduced in March 2025.
It also updates the registration process and the list of immigration forms that meet the legal requirements.
What Has Changed?
The new rule officially adopts the earlier interim regulation and introduces several procedural and technical updates.
It also invites public feedback on additional changes related to foreign national registration and fingerprinting.
Comments can be submitted until August 28, 2026.
Who Needs to Register?
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, registration is required for most foreign nationals who:
Are 14 years of age or older.
Were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a US visa (if fingerprinting was required).
Stay in the United States for 30 days or longer during a visit.
The requirement generally applies to each stay of 30 days or more, so foreign nationals should check whether they need to register every time they enter the US.
Special Rules for Children
Parents or legal guardians are responsible for registering foreign nationals who are under 14 years of age and remain in the United States for at least 30 days.
Once a previously registered child turns 14, they must apply for re-registration and fingerprinting within 30 days of their birthday.
What Is Form G-325R?
To make the registration process easier, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced Form G-325R (Biographic Information – Registration).
The form allows foreign nationals who have not previously registered to meet their legal obligation under US immigration law through an online process.
USCIS has also launched an Alien Registration Requirement (ARR) Determination Tool to help individuals check whether they are required to register.
Does Registration Give Immigration Status?
No.
The government has clarified that registration is not the same as immigration status.
Registering does not:
Grant legal immigration status.
Provide permission to work in the United States.
Create any additional immigration rights or benefits.
It only fulfills the legal registration requirement under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Carry Registration Proof at All Times
After completing registration and fingerprinting (unless fingerprinting is waived), DHS will issue proof of registration.
Foreign nationals who are 18 years or older must carry this registration document with them at all times while they are in the United States.
What Happens If You Don’t Register?
Failure to comply with the registration rules can lead to both criminal and civil penalties.
According to the DHS, a foreign national who willfully fails to register or complete fingerprinting may face:
A fine of up to $5,000.
Up to six months in prison.
Or both.
The same penalties may also apply to parents or legal guardians who knowingly fail to register a child when required.
Important Note
These rules apply only to individuals who are legally required to register under US immigration law.
Since immigration regulations can change and individual circumstances may differ, foreign nationals should verify the latest requirements through official USCIS and DHS resources or consult a qualified immigration attorney before taking any action.
