Mandatory Registration for Undocumented Immigrants 2025: What It Is, Who It Affects, and What You Should Know
A major new policy is now in effect: the mandatory registration for undocumented immigrants 2025. This is big news — and for many people, it’s causing confusion, fear, and a lot of questions.
If you are living in the United States without a visa, if you entered through a land border without documentation, or even if you are a Canadian citizen visiting for an extended time, this could impact you directly.
We’ve broken it all down for you — what’s going on, who needs to register, what happens after you do, and what we don’t yet know.
Why Is This Happening Now?
The U.S. government had been planning this registration requirement for a while, but it was put on hold because of a lawsuit. Immigration and civil rights groups challenged the policy, arguing that requiring undocumented immigrants to register like this was unconstitutional and dangerous.
However, just this week, a federal judge decided that those organizations don’t have the legal right to stop the policy — so the government is now moving forward with the mandatory registration for undocumented immigrants 2025, starting immediately.
Who Has to Register?
There are two main groups that the government says need to register:
1. Undocumented Immigrants Without a Visa or Work Permit
You are required to register if:
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You entered the U.S. illegally, meaning you crossed a land border without a visa.
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You are not currently in deportation (removal) proceedings.
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You do not have a work permit (such as a work visa or other legal employment authorization).
Even if you’re trying to fix your immigration status through family sponsorship or waivers, you still may be required to register. For example:
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If you have an approved I-130 petition (family sponsorship)
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If you’re applying for a 601A provisional waiver (a step toward getting a green card while inside the U.S.)
It’s important to speak with a qualified immigration lawyer before registering.
2. Canadian Citizens Staying in the U.S. Over 30 Days
You must also register if:
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You are a Canadian who entered the U.S. by driving across the border, and
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You plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days
This applies even if you are here legally. The government wants a record of your extended stay and is now requiring registration and biometric data.
What Happens After You Register?
After registering, you will receive a notice to attend an appointment for biometrics. This means the government will collect your:
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Fingerprints
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Photograph
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Basic identifying information
But what happens next?
That’s where things get concerning. The government has not yet explained what will happen after people give their biometrics. There’s no clear policy or timeline for what comes next.
Why People Are Worried
This kind of registration isn’t new. In the early 2000s, the U.S. had a program called NSEERS (National Security Entry-Exit Registration System). It was supposed to be for tracking immigrants from certain countries.
But here’s what really happened:
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Thousands of people who complied with registration were detained, placed into deportation proceedings, or even removed from the country, despite having no criminal records.
Now, with the mandatory registration for undocumented immigrants 2025, many fear the same could happen again.
So far, no one knows for sure.
Should You Register?
That’s the big question — and the answer depends on your situation.
If you’re undocumented but working on a legal path (like through a family petition), registering without legal guidance could put you at risk.
If you’re Canadian and staying longer than 30 days, you might be required to register even if you entered legally — but again, it’s wise to get advice first.
You’re Not Alone — We’re Here to Help
This is a confusing and stressful time for many immigrant families. If you’re unsure whether you need to register, or you’re worried about what happens next, it’s essential to speak with an immigration attorney before taking any action.
At Dworsky Law Firm, we’re closely monitoring every development of this policy and helping individuals and families understand their rights and options.
We can help you:
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Understand if you need to register
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Prepare and protect yourself legally
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Avoid mistakes that could lead to deportation
Contact Us Today to Schedule a Consultation
The legal team at Dworsky Law Firm offers expert legal support is here to fight for your rights. Our experienced immigration attorneys understand the urgency and complexity of these cases — and we’re committed to helping students, families, and professionals navigate this evolving legal landscape.
Schedule a confidential consultation today
Visit us at www.dworskylaw.com or call +1 (847) 441-4188
Don’t wait — get trusted legal advice before making any decisions.