New U.S. immigration rule requires Ghanaians and all foreign nationals to register or face penalties

Ghanaians living in the United States are now required to comply with a sweeping new immigration regulation introduced under the Trump administration, which mandates the registration of all foreign nationals and the carrying of proof of legal immigration status at all times.

The directive, which took effect on April 11, 2025, is part of the implementation of Executive Order 14159 signed by President Donald Trump.

The order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to treat compliance with alien registration laws as a civil and criminal enforcement priority.

According to the new policy outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), all foreign nationals aged 14 and older—including students, workers, and visitors—must register and undergo fingerprinting (if not previously done) if they plan to remain in the U.S. for 30 days or more. Those who fail to comply risk misdemeanor charges, fines, and possible incarceration.

“All aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U.S. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, must apply for registration,” the notice states.

Additionally, parents or guardians of children under 14 are responsible for registering them. Upon turning 14, these individuals must re-register within 30 days and undergo biometric processing.

Previously registered individuals are also required to update their details through the new G-325R biometric registration form or the online portal.

Importantly, even local law enforcement officers, including traffic police, are now permitted to request proof of registration or legal status during routine stops or investigations.

Legal proof includes a Green Card, visa documentation, or the I-94 entry record, which all foreign nationals are now expected to carry at all times.

The registration rule does not grant any immigration status or benefits, but failure to comply could have serious legal consequences.

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