For foreign nationals residing in the United States, compliance with U.S. immigration laws is essential to maintaining legal status. One key requirement enforced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the Alien Registration Requirement, with updated regulations set to take effect on January 20, 2025. Understanding what this entails and who must comply is crucial for immigrants navigating the U.S. immigration system.
What Is Alien Registration?
Alien registration refers to the process by which non-U.S. citizens are assigned an Alien Registration Number (A-Number), a unique seven- to nine-digit identifier used by USCIS and other government agencies to track immigration records. This number is often found on key immigration documents, including green cards, employment authorization documents (EADs), and certain visa paperwork.
Who Is Required to Register?
Under U.S. immigration law, nearly all foreign nationals 14 years of age or older who were not fingerprinted or registered when applying for a U.S. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer must apply for registration and fingerprinting. Similarly, parents and guardians must ensure that their children below the age of 14 are registered. Within 30 days of reaching his or her 14th birthday, the previously registered alien child must apply for re-registration and to be fingerprinted. Once an alien has registered and appeared for fingerprinting (unless waived), DHS will issue evidence of registration, which aliens over the age of 18 must carry and keep in their possession at all times.
The updated regulations, effective January 20, 2025, clarify and expand certain registration requirements to improve tracking and compliance. This typically occurs automatically when applying for a visa, adjusting status, or obtaining a green card. However, immigrants should be aware of their obligations to maintain up-to-date records.
How to Find Your A-Number
For those unsure where to locate their A-Number, it can be found on:
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) – Listed as “USCIS#.”
- EAD (Work Permit) – Typically displayed on the front and is preceded with A#.
- Immigration Court Documents – Included in case-related paperwork.
Why Is Alien Registration Important?
Alien registration serves multiple purposes, including:
- Ensuring compliance with immigration laws.
- Facilitating government tracking of visa holders and residents.
- Aiding in work authorization and legal identification.
- Serving as a crucial identifier in immigration applications and petitions.
Updating and Maintaining Compliance
Registered aliens must keep their immigration records updated. Address changes, for instance, must be reported to USCIS within 10 days of moving by filing Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card. The new 2025 regulations emphasize stricter penalties for failing to update information, reinforcing the importance of compliance.
Seek Legal Guidance
Navigating U.S. immigration laws can be complex, and compliance with requirements such as alien registration is essential. If you have questions about your status, need assistance with updating your records, or require legal guidance, consulting an experienced immigration attorney can provide clarity and peace of mind.For professional assistance with your immigration case, contact Mayer Law Firm today. Our team is dedicated to helping immigrants maintain compliance and achieve their American dream.