US registration rule: No panic for most visa holders

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a new registration rule effective April 11, 2025. However, most non-immigrant visa holders, including Indian citizens on H-1B, L-1, F-1, and B-1/B-2 visas, are not required to take any action.​

Key Points:

• I-94 Sufficiency: For most non-immigrant visa holders, the I-94 record, which serves as proof of legal entry and specifies the permitted length of stay, is sufficient. This includes children under 14 years of age.​
• G-325R Form Requirement: The new G-325R form is a biometric information registration introduced for undocumented aliens to comply with the law. It is not applicable to those with valid I-94 records.​
• Re-registration for Children Turning 14: Children on visa categories such as H-4, L-2, TD, R-2, and B-2 must re-register within 30 days of turning 14 by submitting Form G-325R and providing biometric information. They must create their own USCIS account to complete this process.​
• Green Card Holders: Green card holders turning 14 are required to file Form I-90 within 30 days of their 14th birthday to notify USCIS. Filing fees may apply depending on the expiration of their current green card.​

Conclusion:

Most non-immigrant visa holders, including Indian workers, students, and visitors, are not required to take any action under the new USCIS registration guidelines. Only those without legal status or children turning 14 in specific visa categories need to comply with the new requirements.