Understanding the Foreign National Registration Requirement Taking Effect June 29

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finalized a rule on June 29, 2026, enforcing registration and fingerprinting mandates for noncitizens remaining in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. Driven by Executive Order 14159, the final rule adopts a previous Interim Final Rule (IFR) and introduces updated registration procedures.

Key Provisions of the Final Rule

• Registration Method: Foreign nationals can continue using Form G-325R (Biographic Information) to fulfill this requirement.
• Proof of Registration: Online registrants will receive a downloadable “USCIS Proof of G-325R Registration” receipt and registered noncitizens age 18 and older are required to carry this physical proof of registration at all times.
• Children Under Age 14: Parents and legal guardians must register children under the age of 14.
• Re-Registration for Children Turning 14: Within 30 days of their 14^th birthday, children must personally apply for re-registration and provide fingerprints.
• Trusted Traveler Status: Active membership in Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST officially qualifies as valid proof of registration.
• Frequent Travelers: Registration applies independently to every separate U.S. visit that lasts 30 days or longer.

When does the rule take effect?

The final rule took effect immediately upon publication on June 29, 2026

Penalties for Violations

Failure to register or carry proof can result in civil and criminal penalties, including fines, misdemeanor charges, or jail time.

Employer Considerations

While this final rule could signal a period of aggressive workplace immigration enforcement, it does not alter standard Form I-9 employment eligibility verification requirements. The rule primarily targets individuals who entered the U.S. without inspection.

• Exempt Employees: Most authorized foreign national employees are already considered registered and do not need to file Form G-325R if they are:
  • Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
  • Noncitizens with valid Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
  • Work visa holders (such as H-1B, L-1, or TN) with an unexpired Form I-94
• Form I-9 Compliance: Completing Form G-325R registration does not grant employment authorization. Employers should continue to verify eligibility using the standard accepted Form I-9 List documents
• Increased Scrutiny: Employers may see an increased likelihood of workplace inspections. Employers should expect heightened scrutiny regarding paperwork compliance

Plan Ahead

• Review Form I-9 files for accuracy and make corrections.
• Monitor expiration dates for foreign national employees to ensure timely reverification.

What to Expect Next

DHS is accepting public comments on the final rule through August 28, 2026.

Amy McCoy