Trump's Alien Registration Requirement 2025 - A Guide from a Seattle Immigration Lawyer

Important Alien Registration Update for Seattle Immigration Clients

L.I.H. Law in Seattle, Washington, is closely monitoring the implementation of President Trump's Executive Order 14159, "Protecting the American People Against Invasion," which established the new mandatory alien registration requirement in 2025. As your trusted Seattle immigration law firm since 2009, we want to ensure you have accurate information about this policy and understand how it might affect you or your loved ones in Washington State.

Video Guidance from Attorney Lesley Irizarry-Hougan

Watch our informational video: Immigration attorney Lesley Irizarry-Hougan has created a video explaining the Trump Alien Registration requirement, its implications, and how our firm can help you navigate this complex process.

What is the 2025 Alien Registration Requirement?

On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14159 "Protecting the American People Against Invasion," which directed the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that all noncitizens comply with their duty to register with the government under section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

To meet this requirement, noncitizens need to:

  • Create an online account with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

  • Complete Form G-325R, Biometric Information (Registration)

  • Submit biometrics, including fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature, if requested

  • Print their official "proof of alien registration" document and carry it with them

The registration requirement is based on the Alien Registration Act of 1940, which has not been universally enforced since the mid-1940s until now.

Who Must Register?

The policy requires all non-citizens aged 14 and older who have not been fingerprinted or registered when applying for a U.S. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer to apply for registration and fingerprinting. Parents and guardians must ensure that their children under 14 are registered.

Those who are already registered include:

  • Aliens who received immigrant or nonimmigrant visas before their last arrival

  • Aliens placed in removal proceedings by DHS

  • Aliens with employment authorization documents (work permits)

  • Aliens who applied for lawful permanent residence using Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, and I-700 and provided fingerprints

  • Aliens issued Border Crossing Cards

Timeline and Deadlines

As of April 11, 2025, the following applies to all noncitizens without registration evidence:

  • Those present in the U.S. for 30 days or more: Register immediately via USCIS

  • Those entering on or after April 11, 2025: Register within 30 days of arrival

  • Noncitizens turning 14 in the U.S.: Re-register and submit fingerprints within 30 days of their 14th birthday, even if previously registered

Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance

The government has threatened consequences for those who are required to register but fail to do so, including both criminal and immigration penalties. Failure to register could result in criminal misdemeanor charges with fines up to $5,000, six months in jail, and grounds for deportation. Additionally, the law requires all registered noncitizens over 18 to carry proof of registration at all times and notify the government of any address changes.

Legal Challenges and Current Status

On April 10, 2025, Judge Trevor Neil McFadden, a Trump appointee, ruled against immigration advocacy groups who challenged the registration requirement, allowing the policy to go into effect on April 11, 2025. As of April 11, 2025, the rule is in effect and has not been stopped by litigation.

How L.I.H. Law Can Help With Alien Registration in Seattle

Our dedicated team of Spanish-speaking immigration attorneys at L.I.H. Law is committed to supporting our Seattle and Washington State clients through this challenging period. With over 15 years of exclusive immigration law experience, we can help you:

  1. Determine your registration status: We can review your immigration history to determine if you're already registered or need to complete the new registration process.

  2. Navigate the registration process: If you need to register, our attorney can guide you through the entire process, including creating your USCIS online account, completing the required forms, and preparing for biometrics appointments.

  3. Understand your rights: We can explain your rights and responsibilities under this new requirement and help you make informed decisions about your immigration status.

  4. Explore legal pathways: For those concerned about their current immigration status, we can discuss potential pathways to legal status that may be available to you.

Schedule a Seattle Alien Registration Consultation Today

If you have questions about how the Trump Alien Registration Requirement affects you or your family in Seattle or anywhere in Washington State, please contact our Seattle office to schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration attorney. Our entire staff is fluent in Spanish, and we have served immigrants from around the world since 2009.

Phone: (206) 838-7628
Email: info@lihlaw.com
Address: 159 Denny Way, Suite 107, Seattle, WA 98109 (near the Seattle Space Needle)

Hours: Monday - Thursday, 9 AM - 5 PM
Website: www.immigrationlawseattle.com

This information about Trump's Alien Registration Requirement is current as of April 21, 2025, and is subject to change as new policies are implemented or legal challenges proceed. This document is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an experienced Seattle immigration attorney at L.I.H. Law for advice specific to your situation.

Why Choose L.I.H. Law - Seattle Immigration Attorneys

Why Choose L.I.H. Law?

Exclusive Immigration Focus

We exclusively practice immigration law, allowing us to develop deep expertise in this complex and constantly evolving field.

Bilingual & Culturally Competent

Our entire staff speaks Spanish fluently and understands the unique challenges faced by immigrant communities.

Affordable Consultations

We offer low-cost initial consultations to ensure everyone can access quality legal advice for their immigration matters.

Proven Track Record

Our success stories and client testimonials speak to our dedication, compassion, and expertise in handling complex immigration cases.

Convenient Location

Our office is conveniently located in Seattle near the Space Needle (2nd Ave and Denny Way) with ample street parking available.

Personal Commitment

We take on complex cases other attorneys won't touch, with honest communication throughout the entire immigration process.

Keywords: Trump Alien Registration Requirement, Seattle immigration lawyer, immigration registration help Seattle, USCIS registration Seattle, Executive Order 14159, alien registration attorney Washington, Spanish-speaking immigration lawyer