New 2025 rule about immigration registration

A new government rule says that some immigrants who came to the U.S. without permission must "register." To register means to give your personal information to the government. This rule started on April 11, 2025.

Important: Registering does NOT give you permission to stay in the United States. The government wants this information so they can find and deport people. 

Who does this affect?

The rule says you must register if:

• You are older than 14 years old
• You came to the U.S. without permission
• You have never had any contact with immigration officials before

If you register, you must tell the government within 10 days every time you move to a new address.

What about children?

If you are a parent or guardian of a child under 14, the rule says you must register your child if:

• The child came to the U.S. without permission
• The child has never had contact with immigration officials

When children turn 14, they have 30 days to register themselves. 

Am I already registered?

If you had contact with the immigration system, you may be registered already. All of these count as registration:

• A green card or an application for one (even if the application was denied)
• A work permit (even if it expired)
• An immigration court case or a notice to go to court
• Permission to enter the U.S. (even if that permission expired)
• A border crossing card

 The new rule says you must carry your proof with you. Remember, if you are stopped by immigration or police officers, you have the right to remain silent (say nothing). If you do not want to speak or show expired proof, here is a card you can carry and show. 

What happens if I do or do not register?

This is a very hard choice. Here are the risks:

If you DO register:

• The government said they will target people who register
• You are giving them information they need to deport you
• You must carry proof that you registered (You could be charged with a crime if you don't carry proof)

If you DO NOT register:

• You could be charged with a crime for not registering
• You could be charged with a crime for not having proof

No matter what you choose:

• You can still be charged with the crime of entering the U.S. without permission
• It may be harder to get legal immigration status later

Wait! Very important!

This rule is very new. Advocates are trying to stop it in court.

Before you make any choice, try to:

• Check for the most recent information about this rule. The National Immigration Law Center is a good place to check for updates and how to register.
• Talk to an immigration lawyer or accredited representative if possible

Remember

When you are stopped by immigration or police officers, you can remain silent. If you do not want to speak or show expired proof of registration, you can say nothing and show this card. They may arrest you anyway. 

Remaining silent is a Constitutional protection of your rights. The Constitution is the highest law in the land. In the past, you could slow or stop a deportation by remaining silent. But the government does not always follow the Constitution.