US administration orders all non-citizens to register or face the law

In a major shift in U.S. immigration policy, the Trump administration has made it mandatory for all non-citizens living in the country to register with the federal government and carry proof of legal status at all times.

The new directive stems from President Donald Trump’s Executive Order “Protecting the American People Against Invasion”, signed earlier this year.

The rule covers all non-citizens -- including legal residents -- and is being enforced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Been in the U.S. for over a month? It’s time to register

In a post on Friday, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem reminded all non-citizens who’ve been in the U.S. for 30 days or more that the deadline to register was April 11, 2025.

“This administration has a clear message: If you’re here illegally, leave now,” said Noem. “We will not turn a blind eye to immigration laws. For the safety of all Americans, we must know who is living in our country.”

Non-citizens 18 and older -- even those with Green Cards -- must now carry registration proof at all times. Failing to do so can lead to fines, jail time, or both.

Here’s what you need to know

As of April 11, 2025, these are the key rules non-citizens in the U.S. must follow under DHS orders.

• Stayed in the U.S. for more than 30 days? You must register right away using the USCIS online system.
• Arriving after April 11, 2025? You’ll need to register within 30 days of entry if you don't already have proof.
• Just turned 14? If you're in the U.S., you’ll need to re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of your birthday.
• Have kids under 14? Parents or guardians must register minors if they’re staying longer than 30 days.

Why is this happening now

The registration requirement isn’t new -- it’s part of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), passed in 1952. But until now, enforcement was inconsistent.

President Trump’s executive order pushes DHS to bring structure and accountability back into the system. DHS also said many non-citizens didn’t previously have a direct way to comply with the law. To fix that, the USCIS has launched a new form, G-325R, and a streamlined online registration process.

Registration isn’t legal status

The USCIS clarifies that registration does not grant immigration status, work rights, or permission to stay in the U.S. -- it simply ensures the government knows who you are and where you are.

Warning for airline passengers

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on Saturday announced it will begin enforcing stricter ID requirements at U.S. airports starting May 7, warning that passengers could be denied access to flights. Beginning on that date, the TSA will no longer accept state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant.

The new federal standards, approved by Congress in 2005, set stricter guidelines for issuing identification cards, though enforcement has been delayed several times. The TSA stated that passengers aged 18 or older without a passport or enhanced ID could experience delays, additional screening, and may even be prohibited from entering the security checkpoint.