Some people living in the US must now sign up with the government and carry proof
An old law says most non-citizens who are here without a visa or green card have to register with immigration authorities, give fingerprints, and carry the paperwork with them. It was rarely used before; it is now being enforced, and there are fines or charges for not doing it. Details are still developing.
Who this applies to & what you could do
B-1 Business Visitor
- Standard inspection at entry fulfills registration rules for business visitors.
- Requirement applies to anyone in the U.S. over 30 days without prior registration.
Download a copy of your electronic I-94 travel history from the official portal to keep as proof of registration.
DACA
- Biometrics submitted for DACA renewals usually count toward official registration.
- Individuals reaching age 14 must ensure they meet age-based registration rules.
Gather your past DACA approval notices and biometrics confirmations, and consult an immigration legal advocate to review your registration status.
B-2 Tourism & Medical Treatment
- Lawful entry on a B-2 visa usually satisfies the government registration requirement automatically.
- Unregistered visitors present for 30 days or more must complete registration.
Check and print your official I-94 arrival record online to carry proof of your lawful entry, and talk to a legal advocate if you cannot find your record.
TPS Temporary Protected Status
- Completing TPS biometrics generally fulfills the official registration requirement.
- Young people turning 14 may need to complete an updated registration step.
Locate your TPS approval notice and biometrics appointment receipts, and speak with a legal representative to confirm your file is up to date.
Timeline — newest first
Registering and giving fingerprints is now required for people here without a visa or green card
The U.S. government requires anyone age 14 or older who has stayed in the country for 30 days or more without prior registration to sign up with immigration authorities and submit fingerprints. Most people who entered the country lawfully on a visa were registered automatically upon entry. To prepare, you can gather your travel or immigration documents and consult a legal service provider if you are unsure of your status.
Summaries are AI-generated from public government sources and news coverage. This is not legal advice.