DHS Implements New Registration Requirement for Non-U.S. Citizens: What Green Card Holders Must Know Now

In a significant policy shift, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new registration requirement for non-U.S. citizens who have not previously been recorded in immigration databases. This development signals a tightening of immigration enforcement under the new administration, and green card holders—especially those who travel frequently—must take immediate notice.

This policy change comes amid broader efforts to track and monitor the movement of foreign nationals, potentially affecting lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been living in the U.S. for years but may not have extensive travel histories or prior formal registration with DHS beyond their initial green card issuance.

What Is This New DHS Requirement?

Under the newly implemented rule, certain non-U.S. citizens, including green card holders, who have not been previously registered with DHS must now complete a formal registration process. While details are still emerging, it appears that the policy primarily affects individuals returning to the U.S. after extended absences, as well as those who have not had routine interactions with immigration authorities post-admission.

This requirement aligns with the government’s increasing use of data collection and verification at ports of entry, meaning that LPRs and visa holders returning to the U.S. could face additional questioning, delays, or even challenges to their status if they are flagged as “unregistered” in government systems.

How Could This Impact Green Card Holders?

For green card holders, particularly those who travel internationally, this new requirement could pose serious risks:

  • Longer Screening & Possible Delays at Ports of Entry: Returning LPRs who do not meet the new registration requirements may face extended questioning or secondary inspection by CBP officers.
  • Increased Risk of Abandonment Findings: Immigration authorities may use this requirement to scrutinize green card holders who spend significant time outside the U.S., raising the risk of a finding that they have abandoned their permanent residency.
  • Unexpected Compliance Burdens: Many green card holders, particularly those who obtained their status years ago, may not even be aware that they are now subject to this additional layer of oversight.
  • Potential Impact on Naturalization Applications: If an LPR’s travel history or registration status comes under question, it could affect their ability to qualify for U.S. citizenship.

Steps Green Card Holders Should Take Immediately:

  1. Check Your Registration Status: If you are a green card holder who has not had recent contact with DHS, confirm whether you are required to complete this new registration process before traveling.
  2. Gather Supporting Documents for Reentry: Be prepared to show proof of continued U.S. residence, such as tax filings, utility bills, employment records, and property ownership.
  3. Apply for a Reentry Permit if Necessary: If you plan to stay abroad for an extended period, obtain a reentry permit to reduce the risk of abandonment findings.
  4. Limit Unnecessary Travel & Keep a Strong U.S. Presence: The more time you spend outside the U.S., the greater the scrutiny you may face under this new policy.
  5. Consult an Immigration Attorney: If you have concerns about how this affects your status, seek legal guidance before making international travel plans.

Why Green Card Holders Must Take This Seriously?

This is not just a minor bureaucratic update—it represents a significant shift in how DHS monitors foreign nationals, including green card holders. The current administration has prioritized stricter enforcement and more aggressive questioning at the border, and this new policy provides immigration officials with an additional tool to challenge an LPR’s residency status.

For any green card holder who travels frequently or has spent extended time abroad, this is a wake-up call. If you have not been officially “registered” with DHS in the past, you could face serious complications upon reentry, up to and including being denied admission or placed in removal proceedings.

The time to act is now—ensure your status is secure before it’s too late.