There have been several updates in immigration policy that may impact individuals navigating the system. From registration requirements to a potential increase in social media monitoring, staying informed is key. Here is what you need to know:
Alien Registration Requirement: What You Need to Know
A recent executive order has reinforced the requirement for non-U.S. citizens to register with the government if they remain in the United States for more than 30 days. While many individuals have already met this obligation through visa applications, green card processes, or other immigration filings, some may need to take action to comply.
Who Needs to Register?
Non-U.S. citizens aged 14 or older who have not previously registered when applying for a visa and who stay in the United States for more than 30 days.
Parents or legal guardians must register children under 14 who have not yet been registered.
Individuals who turn 14 must re-register within 30 days of their birthday.
What Does This Mean for You?
Once registered, individuals receive documentation proving their compliance. If you are over 18, you are required to carry this document with you at all times.
If you already have a green card, visa, work permit, or other official immigration documentation, you are likely already registered. However, if you entered the United States without inspection or have not completed any official immigration filings, you may need to take steps to register.
A new form, G-325R (Biometric Information Registration), is available for those who need to complete this requirement.
What You Should Do:
- If you have immigration documents, carry them with you as proof of registration.
- If you are unsure whether you are registered, it may be helpful to review your records or schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney.
- BEFORE TAKING ANY ACTION, FIRST CONSULT WITH AN EXPERIENCED IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY.
Registering does not affect your immigration status or provide any new benefits, but it is a legal requirement. Staying informed and prepared ensures you remain in compliance with United States laws.
If you have questions about your status or whether you need to register, contact us today.
USCIS Expands Authority to Issue Notices to Appear (NTAs)
A new USCIS policy update expands the agency’s ability to issue Notices to Appear (NTAs)—official documents that begin removal (deportation) proceedings. This policy means that more individuals whose immigration applications or petitions are denied may receive NTAs if they are no longer in lawful status or meet other grounds for removal.
What is an NTA?
An NTA (Form I-862) is a document that requires a noncitizen to appear before an immigration judge to determine whether they should be removed from the United States Once filed with the immigration court, the removal process formally begins.
Who Could Be Affected?
- Individuals whose immigration benefit applications (such as visa extensions or green card applications) are denied and are no longer in valid immigration status.
- Applicants found to have committed fraud or misrepresentation—even if their case was denied for a different reason.
- Some individuals applying for naturalization if USCIS determines they were inadmissible at the time they received their green card.
This policy signals a stronger focus on immigration enforcement, and the number of NTAs issued by USCIS is expected to increase. If you have questions about your immigration status or what this policy means for your case, please reach out to us.
New Proposal to Collect Social Media Handles on Immigration Forms
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has proposed a new rule that would require many immigration applicants to include their social media usernames (also called “handles”) on certain application forms. This move is part of an effort to strengthen identity verification and national security screening.
What’s Changing?
If the proposal is finalized, applicants would be asked to share social media handles from the past five years on nine immigration forms, including those used for:
- Naturalization (Form N-400)
- Green card applications (Form I-485)
- Travel documents (Form I-131)
- Removal of conditions on residence (Forms I-751, I-829)
Important Notes:
- USCIS will not ask for passwords—only the public usernames or handles.
- This information may be used to verify identity and look for signs of fraud or security concerns.
- Social media activity has already been used informally in some immigration cases, but this proposal would formalize and expand the process.
Why This Matters
Social media content can sometimes be reviewed to confirm facts in an application—such as relationships, travel history, or consistency of personal information. While this type of review is not new, requiring social media identifiers on official forms would make it a routine part of the application process.
The public has until early May to submit comments on the proposal. After that, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will decide whether to move forward with the policy as proposed, make changes, or withdraw it.
If you are applying for immigration benefits, it is a good idea to be mindful of your online presence. If you have questions about how this may affect your case, we are here to help.
Staying Updated on Immigration Changes
Stay informed about immigration updates and how they may impact you. At The Law Office of Christine Contreras, we can guide you through these changes with clarity. Contact us today!