⚠️ Important update for undocumented individuals in the U.S.

As of April 11, 2025, a new federal policy under the Trump administration is officially in effect. This policy requires certain undocumented immigrants to register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Detailed rules were released on March 7, 2025, and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now accepting submissions.

What you need to know:

  • This new noncitizen registration requirement is in effect.
  • There are no legal challenges or injunctions currently stopping it.
  • USCIS is actively processing these registrations.

📝 What is the new requirement?

Starting April 11, 2025, certain undocumented individuals must register with DHS by:

  • Creating a USCIS online account
  • Submitting Form G-325R with detailed personal and immigration history
  • Attending a biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photograph, background checks)

Once completed, registrants will receive a Proof of Alien Registration document.

✅ Pros and ⚠️ Cons of registering

Pros of RegisteringCons of Registering
Compliance with the Alien Registration law. Ability to update address and information lawfully if needed.There is a significant and elevated risk of detention, deportation, or expedited removal. DHS has stated they will use registration data to initiate enforcement and pursue removal proceedings.
Demonstrating good faith compliance could be viewed favorably in future discretionary immigration decisions.Possible criminal prosecution if immigration or criminal history makes the person vulnerable (e.g., illegal entry or reentry).
Loss of confidentiality: registration data will be shared with enforcement agencies.

👥 Who must register?

  • Undocumented adults and children 14+ with no prior immigration contact
  • Parents/guardians must register undocumented children under 14

📄 Who might already be registered?

You may already be considered registered if you have:

  • A Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident)
  • Entered legally with a visa (even if expired)
  • An approved or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) plus:
    • DACA
    • TPS
    • Asylum (approved or pending)
    • Advanced Parole

You’re not considered registered if you only applied for or were approved for DACA, TPS, or Asylum without other supporting documentation.

📑 What counts as proof of registration?

🗂 Registration forms:

  • I-94 Arrival-Departure Record
  • I-485 or I-698 Adjustment of Status Applications
  • I-590 Refugee Registration

📎 Evidence of registration:

  • I-94 or Green Card (I-551)
  • Employment Authorization Document (I-766)
  • Notices to Appear (I-862, I-863)
  • Border Crossing Cards (I-185, I-186)
  • The new Proof of Alien Registration document

⚠️ Legal risks to consider

Although the new rule is being enforced, registering comes with serious legal consequences:

  • ICE may use your data to initiate arrest, detention, or removal
  • Individuals who cannot prove 2+ years of continuous presence may be expelled without a court hearing
  • You will be required to disclose sensitive personal and family information, including:
    • Name, date of birth, address history
    • Immigration and criminal history
    • Activities in the U.S. and intended duration of stay
    • Biographic details of your spouse, parents, and yourself

If you are affected by this policy, we strongly advise seeking legal counsel before taking action. We are here to help you understand your rights and evaluate your situation with care.

Sincerely,

The Cruz Law Office, APC