Alien Registration for Canadians: Who Needs to Register?

Understanding the Alien Registration Form (G-325R)

Starting April 11, 2025, the Alien Registration Form (G-325R) is a new requirement introduced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It helps certain non-citizens, including some Canadians, comply with U.S. immigration laws by officially registering their presence in the country. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), most non-citizens who stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register and provide biographic information unless they qualify for an exemption.

This requirement is especially important for:

• Snowbirds – Canadians who spend winter months in the U.S.
• Retirees on extended stays – Those who live part-time in the U.S. but do not have a visa.
• Visitors staying with family for extended periods – Canadians visiting children, grandchildren, or other relatives for more than a month.
• Canadians working remotely from the U.S. – Those who do not have a work visa but stay for an extended period while working online.
• Non-citizens who enter the U.S. without a visa – Travelers who enter at a land border without receiving a Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).

This guide explains who must register, how the process works, and what proof is required.

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Who Needs to Register?

Most non-citizens staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must register, including:

• Canadians who entered at a land border and were not issued a Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
• Individuals who entered the U.S. without inspection and have not yet registered.
• Non-citizens who have been in the U.S. for more than 30 days without previous registration.
• Children who turn 14 years old while in the U.S. (must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday).

This requirement affects many Canadian snowbirds and long-term visitors who travel to the U.S. without visas.

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Who Is Exempt from Registration?

Some individuals do not need to register, including:

• Canadians with valid visas – TN, L-1, or B-1/B-2 visa holders who were fingerprinted during the visa process.
• Diplomats and government officials – Those on A or G visas.
• Indigenous Canadians – American Indians born in Canada with at least 50 percent Indigenous ancestry (INA Section 289).

Even if registration is not required, some individuals may choose to register voluntarily for documentation purposes.

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How to Register Using Form G-325R

1. Create an Account on myUSCIS

Registration is completed online. Visit myUSCIS.gov to create an account. Parents or legal guardians can register for their children.

2. Complete Form G-325R

The form requires:

• Full legal name
• Date and place of birth
• Date and place of entry into the U.S.
• Current address and contact details
• Immigration status (if applicable)
• Criminal history (if applicable)

3. Attend a Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

If requested by USCIS, registrants must attend an Application Support Center (ASC) appointment to provide fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature.

Certain Canadians, including those on nonimmigrant visas and children under 14, may be exempt from fingerprinting.

4. Receive Proof of Registration

Once registration is complete, USCIS will issue a Proof of Alien Registration document, available in the registrant’s myUSCIS account.

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What Serves as Proof of Registration?

Acceptable proof of registration includes:

• Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) – Issued to some nonimmigrants and parolees.
• Form I-551 (Green Card) – Issued to permanent residents.
• Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document – EAD) – For certain work-authorized non-citizens.
• Form G-325R Proof of Registration – Issued upon successful registration.

A valid, unexpired U.S. entry stamp in a Canadian passport may also serve as proof.

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Requirement to Carry Proof of Registration

Registered non-citizens 18 or older must carry proof of registration at all times under 8 U.S.C. 1304(e). Failure to do so can result in:

• A fine of up to $5,000
• Up to 30 days in jail
• Both a fine and imprisonment

Non-citizens who fail to update their registration after moving may face additional penalties.

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Why Alien Registration Matters for Canadians

Legal Compliance

Registering helps avoid legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or removal proceedings.

Employment and Travel

Proper registration may be required for work authorization and can make re-entry into the U.S. easier.

Identification Purposes

Having proof of registration simplifies interactions with U.S. authorities, banks, and other institutions.

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Consequences of Failing to Register

Failing to register or providing false information can lead to:

• Fines up to $5,000
• Up to six months in jail
• Deportation for fraudulent registration (8 U.S.C. 1227(a)(3)(B)(i))

Failing to notify USCIS of an address change within 10 days may also result in removal proceedings.

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Final Thoughts

Many Canadians, especially snowbirds, retirees, and long-term visitors, may need to register with USCIS using Form G-325R. Registering on time helps maintain legal compliance and prevents immigration issues. If you are unsure whether you need to register, consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney.