If you have a NEXUS card, you have already provided fingerprints and a biometric photo to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This leads many travelers to wonder: Do you still need to register using Form G-325R (Alien Registration)?
The short answer is YES, you still need to register if you meet the requirements for alien registration. The NEXUS program is designed for expedited border crossings, but it does not replace the legal requirement for immigration registration.
This guide explains what Form G-325R is, why NEXUS does not exempt you from filing, and who is already registered, who must apply, and who is not registered under U.S. immigration law.
What Is Form G-325R (Alien Registration)?
Form G-325R is part of the U.S. government’s immigration tracking system. It is required for certain foreign nationals who enter or reside in the United States.
Who Has Already Registered?
Some individuals have already met the alien registration requirement through other immigration processes. Under 8 CFR 264.1(b) and INA 262, the following people are considered registered:
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
- Aliens paroled into the U.S. under INA 212(d)(5), even if their parole period has expired.
- Nonimmigrant visa holders issued Form I-94 or I-94W, even if their period of admission has expired.
- Aliens who received an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa before arriving in the U.S.
- Aliens placed into removal proceedings by DHS.
- Aliens who have received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Aliens who applied for lawful permanent residence using Forms I-485, I-687, I-691, I-698, or I-700, even if the application was denied.
- Aliens issued Border Crossing Cards.
If you fall into one of these categories, you have already registered and do not need to submit Form G-325R separately.
Who Must Apply for Registration?
If you have not already registered through one of the processes listed above, you may be required to apply. The following individuals must complete Form G-325R:
- Aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted when applying for a visa and who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. Registration must be completed before the 30-day period expires.
- Parents or legal guardians of children under 14 years old who have not registered but remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. Registration must be completed before the 30-day period expires.
- Any foreign national who turns 14 years old while in the U.S. They must register within 30 days of their 14th birthday.
If you meet any of these criteria, you must apply for alien registration even if you have a NEXUS card.
Who Is Not Registered?
Some individuals in the U.S. have not yet met the alien registration requirement. Under U.S. immigration law, the following people are not considered registered:
- Aliens present in the U.S. without inspection, admission, or parole.
- Canadian visitors who entered the U.S. at a land port of entry and were not issued evidence of registration (such as an I-94).
- Aliens who applied for certain benefits (such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS)) but were not issued evidence of registration.
If you are in one of these categories and remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer, you may be required to register.
How Is NEXUS Different from Form G-325R?
Many people assume that because they have a NEXUS card, which includes a biometric photo and fingerprinting, they do not need to complete alien registration. However, NEXUS and Form G-325R serve completely different purposes.
| Factor | NEXUS Program | Alien Registration (Form G-325R) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides faster travel at U.S.-Canada border | Tracks foreign nationals residing in the U.S. |
| Who Needs It? | Pre-approved travelers who cross the U.S.-Canada border frequently | Foreign nationals required to register under U.S. immigration laws |
| What It Covers | Identity verification for expedited travel | Legal compliance with immigration requirements |
| Government Agency | CBP (Customs and Border Protection) | USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) |
| Renewal | Every 5 years | Ongoing requirement depending on immigration status |
Since NEXUS is a trusted traveler program, it does not replace the need for formal immigration registration. Even though CBP collects biometric data for NEXUS, that information is used for border security purposes, not for immigration tracking.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are unsure whether you need to file Form G-325R, follow these steps:
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Check Your Immigration Status:
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If you are a green card holder or a visa holder with an I-94, you have already registered.
- If you entered the U.S. without an I-94 or another registration document, you may need to apply.
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Consult an Immigration Attorney:
- If you are uncertain about your obligations, speaking with a U.S. immigration lawyer can help clarify your responsibilities.
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Follow USCIS and CBP Guidelines:
- Always stay updated on U.S. immigration regulations to avoid fines, delays, or legal complications.
Conclusion
While a NEXUS card provides convenience for travel, it does not replace Form G-325R (Alien Registration) for those required to register. The NEXUS program and immigration registration serve different purposes, and compliance with U.S. immigration laws remains mandatory. To ensure you meet all requirements, consult an immigration attorney for advice.
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