The document every migrant over 18 must carry starting August 2026: fines up to US$5,000 for non-compliance

Beginning in August 2026, all migrants aged 18 and older present in the United States will be required to carry documentation proving their registration as foreigners. This federal requirement mandates that individuals maintain this proof at all times while in the country.

Non-compliance with this new regulation carries significant penalties. Those found without the required documentation may face a misdemeanor charge, punishable by fines of up to $5,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both. This obligation to carry proof is separate from the initial registration requirement itself.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) states that individuals subject to this rule receive proof of registration upon completing the necessary application process and, if applicable, providing biometric data. Acceptable forms of evidence include the Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, USCIS Proof of Alien Registration G-325R, and certain other documents like I-94A or I-94W, depending on the case.

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Those who are covered by this regulation receive proof of registration once the process is completed and, when applicable, biometric data is collected.

Individuals who have used Form G-325R can access their proof of registration through their USCIS online account, from which they can download and print a PDF copy. The law generally requires foreigners aged 14 and older who have not been registered or fingerprinted and remain in the U.S. for 30 days or more to complete the registration procedure, with limited exceptions.

For minors under 14, parents or legal guardians are responsible for ensuring compliance. Those already registered who turn 14 within the U.S. must complete a new registration and provide fingerprints within 30 days of their birthday. USCIS notes that certain individuals are already considered to meet this registration requirement and do not need to file Form G-325R.

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Failure to have the corresponding proof can constitute a misdemeanor and generate economic and criminal consequences.