Recently, the Department of Homeland Security released a new rule regarding registration requirements for noncitizens (including lawful permanent residents) who are present in the U.S. for more than 30 days. These requirements take effect on April 11, 2025.
Noncitizen registration is not entirely new. Many noncitizens are currently compliant and will continue to comply with registration requirements when they obtain an I-94 record, work permit, or apply for certain immigration benefits such as a green card.
Who will be most impacted by the new rule?
- Noncitizens who did not interact with a CBP Officer when they last entered the U.S. (were not inspected and admitted or paroled);
- Canadian visitors who did not receive an I-94 record; and
- Noncitizens turning 14 years old.
What do noncitizens need to do?
- Noncitizens who did not interact with a CBP Officer when they last entered the U.S. should speak with an immigration attorney about the ways they can or may already meet the registration requirement;
- Canadians entering the U.S. should confirm that they are being issued an I-94 record upon entry into the U.S.;
- Noncitizens turning 14 years old need to register within 30 days of turning 14 (please speak with one of our immigration attorneys about how to meet this requirement);
- Noncitizens age 18 and older should carry evidence of registration at all times.
Those who do not register can face significant fines and criminal penalties. Please reach out to our firm if there are questions or uncertainty regarding compliance with the registration requirement.
FordMurray will continue to monitor changes in immigration law and procedure and will update our clients on significant developments.
To stay up-to-date on the latest immigration news and for more information, please be sure to visit our blog.
