Important Notice for Indian Citizens and B1/B2 Visa Holders Visiting the United States: Mandatory Alien Registration Requirement

Posted On - 14 April, 2025 • By - Vivek Boray

As of January 20, 2025, under Executive Order 14159 titled “Protecting the American People Against Invasion”, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reinforced the legal requirement for foreign nationals (aliens), including tourists and business visitors, to register with the U.S. government under Section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) (8 U.S.C. 1302).

Who Must Register:

All non-U.S. citizens aged 14 years or older who:

Were not registered and fingerprinted at the time of applying for a U.S. visa, and

Remain in the United States for 30 days or more.

Parents or legal guardians of children under 14 must ensure the child is registered.

Once a previously registered alien turns 14 years old, they must re-register and provide fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday.

Key Compliance Obligations:

After registration and fingerprinting (unless waived), DHS will issue proof of registration.

All registered aliens aged 18 or older must carry this proof at all times.

Non-compliance may lead to criminal or civil penalties, including fines, incarceration, and prosecution as a misdemeanor offense.

New Online Process Introduced: To facilitate compliance, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced Form G-325R (Biometric Information – Registration) and an online process to enable unregistered individuals to complete their registration obligations under INA 262.

Important Clarification:

Registration is not the same as immigration status.

Completing registration does not confer legal status, work authorization, or any rights or benefits under U.S. immigration law.

Advice for Indian Nationals and Visitors: If you or your family members are visiting the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa and plan to stay for 30 days or longer, you must check whether you are required to register and follow the steps outlined by USCIS to remain compliant with U.S. law.

Contributed by – Sunayana