Ghanaians living in the United States—whether as students, workers, or visitors—are being urged to comply with a newly enforced U.S. immigration regulation that requires all foreign nationals to register with authorities and carry proof of legal status at all times.
The directive, issued under a previous executive order by former President Donald Trump, is now being implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The rule came into effect last Friday and applies to all non-U.S. citizens aged 18 and above.
According to USCIS, all foreign nationals—referred to under U.S. law as “aliens”—must have valid documentation such as a Green Card, visa, or I-94 entry record in their possession at all times.
Who Must Comply?
- All non-U.S. citizens aged 18 and above
- Visitors, students, workers, and Green Card holders
- Canadians staying more than 30 days
- Parents or guardians of children under 14
Children below 14 must be registered by a parent or guardian. Once they turn 14, they are required to re-register and undergo biometric screening—such as fingerprinting—within 30 days.
Even those who had previously registered are being asked to update their information using a new online system. A new form, G-325R, must be completed as part of the process. Biometric data collection is required unless an exemption applies.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply could result in fines, misdemeanour charges, possible jail time, and random checks by immigration or local law enforcement officers. The regulation now permits even traffic police to request proof of immigration status.
Legal Experts Warn Against Delay
Immigration lawyers are urging foreign nationals, particularly Ghanaians and Nigerians, to take the new requirements seriously.
“This is not a rule to ignore,” said a New York-based immigration attorney. “If you’ve been in the U.S. for over 30 days and don’t have your documents in order, you could face serious consequences.”
What You Should Do
- Register Online: Complete Form G-325R on the USCIS website
- Attend Biometric Screening: If required, follow up with fingerprinting
- Always Carry Valid Documents: Green Card, visa, or I-94 form
- Register Children Early: Re-register them once they turn 14
Ghanaians living in the U.S. are encouraged to seek legal advice, stay informed about immigration policies, and ensure full compliance to avoid complications.
