As of April 11, 2025, a controversial new federal rule requiring certain undocumented immigrants to register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially taken effect. The regulation, first announced in February, mandates that individuals provide personal information—including home addresses, raising alarm among immigrant communities and advocates nationwide.

Civil rights organizations, including the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), have voiced serious concerns about the rule’s impact. They warn that registering could place individuals at risk of detention, deportation, or criminal charges. Legal efforts to block the policy have so far failed, and federal officials say the information collected may be used to locate and arrest undocumented individuals.

The rule has sparked fears of intensified immigration enforcement and surveillance. In response, the NILC has issued detailed public guidance, available on its website, while urging undocumented individuals to consult immigration attorneys before taking any action. They emphasize that their materials are not a substitute for legal advice.

In this special report, Tribuna provides an overview of guidance NILC has issued on the registration rule and lists trusted legal aid organizations in Connecticut that can assist those affected.

What Is Noncitizen Registration?

The Trump administration is enforcing a decades-old law to compel undocumented immigrants to report their personal information to federal authorities. This process, called “registration,” targets those who entered the United States without authorization and have never interacted with immigration officials.

The DHS has warned that those who do not comply could face criminal prosecution. Officials have openly stated that the goal of the policy is to pressure undocumented immigrants to leave the country voluntarily or face deportation.

Under the rule, the following individuals are required to register:

• Adults and children aged 14 and older who entered the United States without authorization and have not been in contact with immigration officials.
• Parents or legal guardians must register children under 14 in similar circumstances.
• Those who have previously applied for immigration benefits or been involved in deportation proceedings may already be considered registered.

All individuals subject to registration must report any change of address within 10 days.

How Does the Registration Process Work?

Registration begins with creating an online account with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After that, individuals must complete and submit a new form—Form G-325R—through the portal. The form collects detailed personal information.

Once submitted, USCIS will issue an appointment for fingerprinting at a local service center. At this appointment, officials will collect:

• Fingerprints
• Photographs
• A signature

A background check will follow, including a criminal history review. After the process is complete, USCIS will issue a digital "Proof of Alien Registration" document accessible in the individual's USCIS account.

What Happens if I Register?

The consequences of registering vary widely and can be severe. The DHS has made clear that registration is part of an effort to encourage voluntary departure from the United States.

Possible immigration consequences:

• DHS may use submitted information to locate, detain, and deport individuals.
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may issue notices requiring individuals to appear at ICE offices.
• If the government cannot confirm that someone has been in the United States for at least two years, they may be subject to expedited removal, a fast-track deportation process without a court hearing.

Possible criminal consequences:

• People who entered the United States illegally within the last five years may face federal charges for unlawful entry.
• Those who were deported and returned without permission could be charged with illegal reentry—a serious federal offense.

What if I Do Not Register?

Failing to register could also result in both immigration and criminal penalties.

Criminal penalties include:

• Failure to register: Up to six months in prison or a fine of up to $5,000
• Failure to carry proof of registration: Up to 30 days in jail or a $5,000 fine
• Failure to report a change of address: Up to 30 days in jail or a $200 fine

Providing false information during registration can also lead to criminal prosecution and deportation.

Immigration penalties:

• Failure to register may negatively impact future applications for visas or immigration benefits.
• Past non-compliance can be used against individuals in discretionary immigration decisions.

Should I Speak to a Lawyer?

Absolutely. The NILC strongly advises undocumented individuals to consult a qualified immigration attorney before registering. Each person’s case is different, and immigration law is complex.

For example, anyone who has been in the United States unlawfully for over a year could face a 10-year reentry ban if they leave voluntarily. Legal guidance is essential to understanding these and other risks.

Legal Help in Connecticut

Below is a list of trusted organizations in Connecticut that are authorized by the U.S. Department of Justice to provide immigration legal services. These are not notarios or consultants, who are not allowed to offer legal advice unless DOJ-accredited.

Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI)
Staff includes attorneys and DOJ-accredited representatives.

• Bridgeport: 203-336-0141
• Stamford: 203-965-7190
• Waterbury: 203-754-6172 ext. 102
  Website: www.immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory

IRIS – Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services
Located in New Haven
Phone: (203) 562-2769
Website: www.irisct.org

Building One Community
Located in Stamford
Phone: (203) 674-8585
Website: www.b1c.org

Center for Immigrant Development, Inc.
Located in Bridgeport
Phone: (203) 724-9403
Website: www.immigrantdevelopment.org

For a full list of accredited organizations, visit: www.immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory.

To find a reputable immigration attorney, visit: www.ailalawyer.com